FAQs
If your rear window has a minor chip or crack, it probably won't affect your safety or your visibility too much. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't get it fixed as quickly as you can. Driving around with damaged auto glass is never a great idea because so many things can cause damage to grow quickly.
What to do if your back windshield shattered? ›
Since the back windshield is made up of shatter-friendly tempered glass, you can't usually repair it. Instead, you'll want to replace the entire back windshield. Ideally, you should replace your damaged back windshield as soon as you can.
Is it safe to drive with a shattered window? ›
This reduced visibility significantly increases the chances of an accident, as you may fail to see approaching vehicles or pedestrians. Additionally, flying debris or dust particles can enter through the broken window, further impairing your vision and making driving even more hazardous.
How to cover a broken back window on a car? ›
Next, stretch a heavy-duty trash bag on the inside of the window opening and tape along the frame with packing tape. You may need an assistant to hold the trash bag taut while you tape it. Finally, repeat the same step on the outside of the vehicle with an additional trash bag to seal the exposed window opening.
How to temporarily fix a broken back car window? ›
Tarp and Blanket Method
First, gather a tarp and a big blanket to cover the entire window. Then, place the tarp on the outside of the car and secure it with duct tape or any strong adhesive, ensuring it is tight and properly attached.
Is the back window of a car considered a windshield? ›
The rear-facing glass on the back of your vehicle, what is it called? Like so many parts in the automotive industry, it actually has a few different names. Some of the more common ones are backlite, rear windshield, and back glass. All of these terms refer to the same piece of glass, without notable differences.
Does insurance cover a broken back glass? ›
Whether or not your cracked rear car window replacement cost is covered by insurance depends on several factors, such as: The type of coverage you have. The cause of the damage. Whether or not a collision caused the damage.
Does insurance cover back windscreen? ›
Depending on the policy, windscreen insurance can include: Repair or replacement of a broken windscreen. Damage to the windscreen which would be sufficient to cause your vehicle to fail its MOT. Repair or replacement of all broken glass in the car, including rear and side windows, plus the sunroof.
How long does it take to fix a broken back windshield? ›
The entire back windshield replacement can take as little as one hour.
How to drive a car with a broken window? ›
Cover the Window
There are many ways to do this. Attaching a plastic garbage bag to the window using duct tape is a common fix. Using packing tape to create a temporary window can also work. You should wear gloves for this process, since even safe modern glass could still cut your hand.
Car windows can shatter for no apparent reason or due to thermal contraction/expansion stresses. It is also caused by manufacturing defects and “object hits.” However, the spontaneous shattering of a car window can be unnerving. This is especially unnerving if it happens while you are driving.
Will a cracked windshield shatter while driving? ›
But when there's a glaring chip or crack, the windshield cannot transfer the impact as it's supposed to. Ultimately, the flaw in the glass will absorb a huge amount of force, which will crack it further or even shatter it.
What is the best temporary cover for a broken car window? ›
There are several options for a broken car window temporary fix, but the most practical choices are a plastic bag, a plastic sheet, or clear packing tape. You just need a temporary car window cover that will be transparent and weather-proof, and plastic is perfect for this.
How do you tape a broken back window? ›
Start on one side of the window, on the inside of the car, and lay a strip vertically so that the tape touches the window frame. Then layer another piece vertically, overlapping the first piece. Continue this until the pieces overlap one another and cover the window.
How do you drive a car with a broken window? ›
Cover the Window
There are many ways to do this. Attaching a plastic garbage bag to the window using duct tape is a common fix. Using packing tape to create a temporary window can also work. You should wear gloves for this process, since even safe modern glass could still cut your hand.
Can you drive with a broken back? ›
Do not drive unless your doctor says that it is okay. If you are allowed to drive, always wear a seat belt. Talk to your doctor about medicines or changes in your diet that can help make your bones stronger.
How to tape up a broken rear window? ›
Seal the Window
Using clear packing tape, begin running strips vertically across the opening of the window. Start on one side of the window, on the inside of the car, and lay a strip vertically so that the tape touches the window frame. Then layer another piece vertically, overlapping the first piece.