Mobile auto glass repair can take many different approaches to arrive at the finished product. While the typical version of a mobile auto glass repair operation involves the total removal of a damaged windshield and the replacement of the glass with an aftermarket windshield, there are other approaches to repairing a windshield. Many mobile auto glass repair technicians only repair the chip in a windshield in lieu of replacing the entire windshield. By repairing only the chip, the mobile auto glass repair can cost much less and offer practically the same results. Many times, the mobile auto glass repair technician is called on to simply repair a leaking seal around a rear window or a windshield.
In most areas of the world, it is a violation of the law to operate a vehicle with a broken or cracked windshield. It is typically for this reason that most mobile auto glass repair calls are made. The repair can usually be made at the customer's residence or place of employment, and it usually takes less than an hour to complete. When making the call for service, the year and model of the vehicle are required as well as specific information concerning that particular vehicle's windshield. To ensure the proper replacement glass is brought to the repair site, the repair person will inquire about specific details, such as whether or not the windshield is tinted and if the radio antenna runs inside of the windshield's glass.
In vehicles equipped with air bag restraint devices, the windshield is an integral part of the restraint system. As the air bag deploys, it is contained and held in place by the windshield. The mobile auto glass repair person must take care to properly seal the windshield to ensure that it provides support in case of an air bag deployment. This often requires a special adhesive to be used that provides a much stronger bond and adds to the windshield's structural integrity.
In matters of a chip in the windshield, a clear glue-like substance is injected into the crack to render the chip virtually invisible. The mobile auto glass repair technician will assess the chip and make certain it is not in the direct line of sight of the driver. If it is in line with the operator's vision, the entire windshield must be replaced. If it is not in the line of sight, it is first cleaned as well as possible to remove any dirt and glass particles. A clear acrylic is then injected into the chip and allowed to harden. Once dried, it is shaved smooth with a razor blade and then buffed out to complete the mobile auto glass repair.