What is the Minivan Windshield Replacement Process?

Drivers, particularly those who have children, love minivans for their practicality and space. They make it easy for a busy parent to cart children where they need to be on any given day of the week. Minivans have a ton of passenger and cargo room, and they’re strong enough to haul a lot of gear.

This is why they become something we depend on, and when our minivan is damaged, it can put a halt to the entire process that is your family schedule. Windshield damage is no different from any other, and if the damage is severe enough, your family taxi suddenly becomes undrivable.

In this blog, we’re going to go over the entire windshield replacement process for minivans, so you can educate yourself in the event you find yourself in need of a new windshield.

1. Preparation

The first thing the technician is going to do when they have your minivan is get it ready. For example, the technician will remove any trim pieces, like the wipers and rearview mirror, or molding that’s securing the windshield.

2. Removal

Next, the technician will use specialized tools to cut through the adhesive. This adhesive is made from urethane and holds the windshield in place. Then, they will carefully lift the damaged windshield out.

3. Clean

Now, the technician will clean the frame to make sure no debris or dirt can interfere with the bonding process. If they find rust or damage, they will address that first so the new glass can bond properly with the frame of the minivan.

4. Adhesive

The technician will apply a urethane adhesive generously to the frame to ensure consistent thickness for proper bonding. A reputable auto glass service will only use adhesive approved by the AGSC (Auto Glass Safety Council).

5. Installation

The new windshield will be carefully positioned into the frame using specialized tools, possibly a mechanical arm. Then, the glass is pressed into place to ensure it bonds well with the adhesive. The technician will clean off any excess adhesive from your windshield and minivan.

6. Reinstallation

At this time, the technician will reinstall any trim, molding, wipers, and rearview mirror that were removed before installation.

7. Curing

The adhesive needs time to cure so it can form a strong bond with the glass. The technician will give you instructions on the recommended curing time, during which you cannot drive the minivan. Driving before the adhesive has cured can lead to a jostled windshield and a break in the bond, which can cause issues like leaking.

8. ADAS Calibration

If your minivan has any safety features, then your new windshield will likely need an ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) calibration. Much of the technology that enables those systems to work is embedded near the windshield. Calibration ensures your safety features function properly.

To learn more about ADAS technology and windshield calibration, click here to read our blog.

Things to Remember

• Find a Reputable Auto Glass Company: Check their Yelp and Google reviews so you know what previous customers are saying. Also, consider hiring a local, independent auto glass company for better overall service and expertise.

• Check Your Insurance Policy: Windshield replacement is typically covered under comprehensive insurance. A reputable auto glass company will have staff to contact the insurance company for you. Click here to learn more about insurance claims assistance.

• Follow Curing Instructions: Don’t drive your minivan after the windshield is replaced until the time the technician gives you has passed. Otherwise, you risk damaging the new bond and voiding any warranty.

• Wait to Wash the Minivan: You should wait at least 24 hours before washing your minivan after a windshield replacement to prevent damage.

• Consider Mobile Auto Glass Services: Mobile auto glass services offer a level of convenience and time-saving that in-shop services can’t. If your windshield is too damaged to drive, mobile services eliminate the need for a tow.

Does Your Minivan Have Windshield Damage in Huntersville, Lake Norman, or the Hickory, NC Area?

If you live near Lake Norman, Huntersville, or in the Hickory, NC area, and your minivan has a damaged windshield, contact us at Auto Glass Experts. We offer a lifetime warranty on windshield replacements and repairs. Our certified technicians can get your minivan back on the road with barely any interruption to your schedule.