Your windscreen is a crucial part of your car, providing you with a clear view of the road ahead. However, even the most durable windscreens can become cracked or damaged over time. If you find yourself in need of a new windscreen, don’t despair. Replacing a windscreen is not as difficult as you might think. With the right tools and a little bit of patience, you can have your car back on the road in no time.
The first step is to remove the old windscreen. This can be done by carefully cutting away the sealant around the edges of the glass. Once the sealant is removed, you can gently pry the windscreen out of its frame. Be careful not to damage the frame or the new windscreen. Once the old windscreen is removed, you can clean the frame and prepare it for the new glass.
Installing the new windscreen is the reverse of removing the old one. First, apply a bead of sealant around the edges of the frame. Then, carefully lower the new windscreen into place. Be sure to align the glass properly before pressing it into the frame. Once the windscreen is in place, you can smooth out the sealant and remove any excess. Allow the sealant to cure for 24 hours before driving your car.
Safety Precautions Before Removal
1. Disconnect the battery. Always disconnect the car battery before working on any electrical components, including the windshield. This will prevent any accidental electrical shocks or fires. To disconnect the battery, simply use a wrench to loosen the negative terminal (usually marked with a black or blue cable) and then remove it from the battery.
2. Wear safety glasses. When removing a car windshield, there is always the potential for broken glass. To protect your eyes, be sure to wear safety glasses or goggles.
3. Use gloves. Gloves will help to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions when handling the windshield and its components.
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Phillips-head screwdriver | To remove the screws that hold the windshield in place |
| Flat-head screwdriver | To pry the windshield loose from the frame |
| Razor blade | To cut through the urethane sealant that holds the windshield in place |
| Suction cups | To grip the windshield and pull it out of the frame |
Cleaning and Preparing the Frame
Before removing the windscreen, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean and prepare the frame to prevent damage or scratches.
Materials Required
– Glass Cleaner
– Soft Cloths
– Masking Tape
– Razor Blade
Steps
- Clean the Frame: Using a clean, soft cloth and glass cleaner, meticulously clean the frame around the windscreen’s perimeter. Remove all dirt, debris, and any remnants of old adhesive.
- Protect the Surrounding Area: Apply masking tape to the areas adjacent to the frame to safeguard any painted surfaces from scratches during the removal process.
- Remove Old Adhesive: Carefully use a razor blade to gently scrape away any remaining adhesive from the frame. Take caution not to damage the frame or the adjacent paint.
- Inspect the Frame: Meticulously examine the frame for any signs of damage, rust, or corrosion. If any issues are found, address them appropriately before proceeding.
Installing the New Windshield
Once the old windshield has been removed, it’s time to install the new one. This process is much easier with two people, but it can be done by one person if necessary.
To install the new windshield, follow these steps:
Preparing the Windshield
1. Before installing the new windshield, it’s important to make sure that it’s clean and free of any debris. Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean the windshield thoroughly.
Removing the Old Windshield
2. Use a razor blade to cut the urethane adhesive around the old windshield. Be careful not to cut into the paint or the new windshield.
3. Once the urethane adhesive has been cut, carefully remove the old windshield from the vehicle.
Prepping the Vehicle
4. Clean the area around the windshield frame where the new windshield will be installed. Use a degreaser to remove any dirt or oil.
Installing the New Windshield
5. Apply a bead of urethane adhesive to the windshield frame. Make sure that the bead is even and continuous.
6. Carefully place the new windshield onto the vehicle. Align the windshield with the frame and press it into place.
7. Use masking tape to hold the windshield in place while the urethane adhesive cures. Remove the masking tape after 24 hours.
Finishing Up
8. Once the urethane adhesive has cured, reinstall the windshield wipers and any other trim pieces that were removed.
9. Drive the vehicle for at least 24 hours before washing it or exposing it to harsh weather conditions. This will give the urethane adhesive time to fully cure and bond the windshield to the vehicle.
Reassembly and Finishing Touches
Once the windscreen has been removed, it’s time to reassemble the vehicle and check for any air leaks or other issues. Here’s how to finish the job:
1. Cleaning the Surfaces
Before reassembling, thoroughly clean the frame of the vehicle and the edges of the new windscreen using a glass cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to remove any remaining adhesive, dirt, or moisture. Use a lint-free cloth to wipe down the surfaces.
2. Applying Adhesive
Apply a thin, even bead of high-quality windscreen adhesive to the frame of the vehicle. Make sure to follow the instructions on the adhesive package.
3. Positioning the Windscreen
Carefully position the windscreen onto the frame, aligning it with the marked reference points. Once it’s in place, press down firmly around the edges to secure it.
4. Setting the Adhesive
Allow the adhesive to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may take several hours or even overnight.
5. Trimming Excess Adhesive
Once the adhesive has set, use a sharp blade or knife to carefully trim away any excess adhesive around the edges of the windscreen.
6. Finishing Touches
Replace any trim or molding around the windscreen and check all the electrical connections.
7. Inspection
Thoroughly inspect the installed windscreen, ensuring there are no leaks or other issues. If any problems are found, address them immediately.
| Time Requirements | Skill Level |
|---|---|
| Several hours | Intermediate to Advanced |
How To Remove Car Windscreen
Removing a car windscreen can be a daunting task, but it is possible to do it yourself with the right tools and a little bit of patience. Here are the steps on how to remove a car windscreen:
- Gather your tools. You will need a set of Torx bits, a flat-head screwdriver, a putty knife, and a suction cup.
- Remove the trim. The trim around the windscreen is held in place by Torx screws. Remove the screws and carefully pry the trim away from the windscreen.
- Cut the sealant. The windscreen is sealed to the frame with a bead of sealant. Use a putty knife to cut the sealant around the edges of the windscreen.
- Remove the windscreen. Once the sealant is cut, you can carefully remove the windscreen from the frame. Use a suction cup to help you lift the windscreen.
- Clean the frame. Once the windscreen is removed, clean the frame of any remaining sealant or debris.
- Install the new windscreen. Apply a new bead of sealant to the frame and carefully place the new windscreen in place. Press the windscreen firmly into the frame to ensure a good seal.
- Replace the trim. Replace the trim around the windscreen and tighten the Torx screws.
