It’s more than evident, and although it seemed to take its time, winter is finally here. Its characteristic low temperatures and the dreaded rain, fog, and frost are natural enemies of our vehicle — especially of the windshield.
At Ralarsa, we want to remind you of the importance of keeping your vehicle’s glass in perfect condition and replacing the car windshield whenever necessary, as it is an essential element when it comes to safety. The windshield is not only a crucial part of the car’s structure, but we must also remember that almost all the information we perceive while driving comes through it.
For this reason, in today’s article we’ll tell you how to care for your windshield during winter to avoid a broken window, as well as other tips related to changing windshield wipers and the usefulness of the ADAS system.
Broken window: recommendations to prevent it
As with the other seasons, a broken window can completely ruin our driving experience. But with cold weather and drastic drops in temperature, this can get worse, leading to the need to replace the car windshield. So, to help you prevent breakage as well as scratches or chips, here are some recommendations from our Ralarsa professionals.
Caring for the windshield wipers
We start with the windshield wipers. Although their condition should be monitored all year round, they become even more important in winter due to fewer daylight hours and, therefore, reduced visibility.
The first measure is to check that they are in good condition, and replace windshield wipers annually. To extend their lifespan, it’s advisable to place cardboard underneath them when the vehicle is parked outdoors. It’s also essential to fill the washer fluid reservoir with a specific windshield washer liquid, as water can freeze and damage components. Likewise, to prevent freezing and improve visibility, you can use a liquid and insect repellent treatment — one that helps improve visibility on rainy days.
Removing ice from the windshield
If, when going to use your car in the morning, you find a layer of ice on the windshield, we hope you haven’t tried to remove it with the wipers, as that can be a real mistake. The best way to do this is with a plastic scraper or by spraying the windshield with alcohol, although you can also find specialised aerosols in shops that are specifically designed to melt ice instantly.
Above all, we must avoid sudden temperature changes, as these are very dangerous and could very likely lead to having to replace the car windshield. Therefore, avoid using hot water or the car’s heating system to get rid of ice on the glass.
Condition of the windshield and ADAS system
Although it might not seem directly connected, a damaged windshield can reduce the effectiveness of advanced driver assistance systems, commonly known as the ADAS system. According to a study by the American Automobile Association, dirt on the windshield can reduce the proper performance of these systems, even if only slightly. Rain and snow, which are common at this time of year, can worsen the problem and cause the assistance systems to fail.
Additionally, the American Automobile Association advises drivers to bear in mind that, in adverse weather conditions, ADAS features such as lane-keeping assistance and automatic emergency braking may not work optimally.
For any unforeseen event, count on Ralarsa
Whether you want to keep your vehicle’s glass in perfect condition or are simply looking for other complementary services to help improve your driving experience, Ralarsa is here to help!
Our team of experts is available to you at any of our Ralarsa workshops — and if you can’t make it to one, our home service offers the same quality and professionalism.
So don’t hesitate to trust Ralarsa for your vehicle’s windshield repair. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through our website, ensuring your total convenience. Extend the lifespan of your windshield wipers with Ralarsa!
