Tag Archives: Auto glass Fresno

Wearing Seat Belts

Car safety is important. Motor vehicle deaths are the major cause of death in the first three decades of an American’s life. By wearing seat belts and buckling children into age and size appropriate car seats and booster seats, people can reduce the risk of serious injury and death by half. Most drivers do follow the safety measures but there are still millions who don’t. This is a primary enforcement for seat belt violations, which means that a driver can be pulled over and sited just for not wearing a seat belt.

Certain strategies have been put in place to TRY to increase seat belt use.

Laws allow officers to stop and ticket someone for not buckling up. Some states only allow officers to give tickets when they have pulled the driver over for something else.
Increased penalties are given resulting in higher fines or points on a driver’s license.
High-visibility enforcement – Combining law enforcement and media coverage is effective for reaching people who don’t use seat belts regularly such as men, teens, and young adults.
Programs are conducted at night to target people when seat belt use is the lowest and crashes are the highest.

Certain strategies can increase car seat and booster seat use

Child restraint laws require children riding in a car to use approved devices appropriate for their age.
Effective programs help advertise car seat and seat belt use.
Distribution of car seats through giveaways or low cost rentals.
Incentive programs with coupons or prizes reward parents for correctly using car seats.

Some facts:

Among drivers and front-seat passengers, seat belts reduce the risk of death by 45%, and cut the risk of serious injury by 50%.
Seat belts prevent drivers and passengers from being ejected during a crash.
People not wearing seat belts are 30 times more likely to be ejected from a vehicle during a crash.

Seat belts protect people from needless death and injury. People are in a hurry, distracted, and simply forget. Many people don’t wear their seat belts, and thousands die as a result. BE SAFE AND BUCKLE UP!

For car safety and windshield repair, please call 7 Star Auto Glass in Fresno.

Car Glass Maintenance

Maintaining your car glass Fresno is something you should do regularly. This way, you can ensure your car is in tiptop shape, runs smoothly, and is safe. Therefore, for a flawless car, you should follow these five vital car care tips:

Cleaning Your Windshield Inside and Out

A clean windshield helps accomplish a couple of great things.

You can prevent sun glares
You can prevent scratches
And you can have a clearer driving visibility

Thus, it is a wise idea to wash your windshield inside and out as often as you can. Be sure to rely on a windshield cleaner and a microfiber cloth for the job. You will have an immaculate, clear windshield and stay safe on the road with this fantastic car care tip.

Refill on Windshield Washer Fluid

Frequently filling up on windshield washer fluid can help you maintain your windshield’s cleanliness. Plus, the less dirty your windshield is, the less sun glares you will have. This way, you can stay safe on the road. Additionally, this car care tip is great for preserving your car’s value.

Do Not Wash Your Car Under the Heat

A lot of drivers do not know that washing their cars under the heat can leave behind watermarks and stains. Not only is this an unappealing sight, but it is also terrible for your car’s health. Stains can create glares on your windshield as well as leave behind scratches. Similarly, stains can cause your car paint to dull in color. Thus, it is best to wash your car when the sun is not sharp.

Swap Sponges with Microfiber Cloths When Washing Your Car

A lot of drivers wash their cars with a sponge and dry them with a towel. It should be noted that that is a terrible thing to do. Sponges and towels can scratch the paint and glass over there. As a result, it is not a good idea to use them. Instead, swap them with microfiber cloths. They are gentle and safe on auto glass and car paint.

Clean Your Headlights with Baking Soda and Vinegar

This last car care tip is amazing! Clean your car’s headlights with a baking soda and vinegar mixture. This mixture eats away at the hazy dirt blocking the lights. In a few minutes, you will have shiny headlights as if you had just purchased your car.

Maintaining your car is crucial for its safety. With these five amazing car care tips, you will keep your car in tiptop shape and have total comfort.

Wipers Can Scratch

Windshield wipers are a life saver when they are in good condition. They make your view clear. When your windshield wipers get old, they can create hazardous driving conditions, like driving in the rain or at night. If the wipers cause streaks, it can block your view and make it difficult to see road signs or oncoming traffic.

How do windshield wipers scratch your windshield?

The rubber edge gets worn out or damaged leaving the metal exposed. Then the metal comes in contact with the glass. The windshield wiper blades are designed to press firmly against the glass and the movement of the blades can cause the metal to dig into the surface resulting in small indentations. The scratches and streaks will only worsen unless resolved.

What can you expect from damaged windshield wipers?

Scratches can reflect sunlight and headlights from oncoming cars
Blades will not wipe all the water off the blades causing limited vision
Water streaks can cause a distraction

Can windshield scratches be removed?

Depending on the depth of the scratches, many can be polished out, however, deep scratches on the windshield may require a full windshield replacement.

Regularly checking and replacing your windshield wipers is a good practice to avoid a full windshield replacement. Replacing your wipers takes very little time.

If you do need a windshield replacement, let 7 Star Auto Glass Fresno do the job. Our certified technicians can install a new windshield on any domestic or foreign vehicle.

Safe Halloween

With Halloween fast approaching, the Car Care Council reminds motorists to drive slowly, especially through neighborhoods, to be extra careful when entering or exiting driveways, and to make sure their vehicle’s brakes, lights and wipers are working properly for a safe Halloween.

“Motorists can help keep young pedestrians safe on Halloween by reminding children of basic safety rules, taking extra precautions when driving through neighborhoods, and inspecting vehicle safety items, like brakes,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “With daylight savings time on the horizon, October is also an ideal time to check vehicles lights and wipers to ensure maximum visibility.”

Check Your Windshield

A dirty windshield may look spooky but does not help to see children crossing the street. If the weather turns, cracked or torn wipers will also pose a problem to visibility. Check that all your lights are working for maximum performance and visibility on Halloween. This year the end of daylight saving time is after Halloween and that means children will likely be trick-or-treating at dusk when the sky is still bright, yet objects on the road can merge with shadows and fade into darkness.

Check Your Brakes

A vehicle’s brake system is the most critical safety item on a vehicle, but brakes wear out and eventually need replacement. Several factors that affect brake wear include driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type and the quality of the brake lining material. Never put off routine brake inspections or any needed repairs, such as letting the brakes get to the “metal-to-metal” point, which can be potentially dangerous and lead to more costly repairs.

Note to Parents

“Parents should remind their little ghosts and goblins to get out of cars on the curb side, not the street side, to stop at all corners and to use crosswalks,” continued White. “Children should look left, right and left again before crossing, stay on sidewalks, avoid crossing through yards, and wear bright, reflective and flame-retardant clothing.”

reprinted from the Car Care Council. The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers.

Mobile Windshield Repair Fresno

If you have a damaged windshield but you cannot drive to an auto glass repair shop for one reason or another, you have another option. What option? you ask. Well, you can call for a mobile windshield repair service from 7 Star Auto Glass Fresno. Here are four reasons why you should.

Convenient for You

Driving somewhere for a repair is never fun or convenient. If you have work, you basically must waste hours out of your day. A repair takes some time to be completed, and it is dreadful having to wait, even if that is only for fifteen minutes. Calling for a mobile windshield repair service with 7 Star Auto Glass Fresno is convenient for you. You do not have to do a thing. You can continue going about your day and doing what matters to you, and we will work on your auto glass repair until it is back to the way it should be.

Safer for You

If your auto glass is terribly damaged, you should not be driving your car. If you do, you would be putting yourself in danger. What if the entire windshield or window shatters? And what if without the windshield in place the car roof collapses on you? Yes, that can happen. Calling for a mobile windshield repair Fresno service is safer for you. Without putting yourself at risk, you can get your car repaired.

Does Not Cost You Extra

Calling 7 Star Auto Glass Fresno for a mobile windshield repair service does not cost you anything extra. We only charge you for the repair, and driving to you is on us. After all, at 7 Star Fresno, our goal is to keep you and your car safe on the road by fixing your glass, and we will do anything to make sure we meet our goal and promise.

Saves You Precious Time

7 Star Auto Glass Fresno understands that everyone is busy in their own right. So, by calling for a mobile windshield repair Fresno service, you can save precious time. You can call us right from your job so that you can keep doing your important work. Or you can call us from home while you are taking care of your kids. You can even call us from the restaurant you are dining at. The options are endless. We can go anywhere you need us to be, just make the call for our complimentary, high-quality service!

If you need a car glass repair but cannot drive to a repair shop, call 7 Star Auto Glass Fresno and ask for the mobile windshield repair Fresno service at no additional cost!

Windshield Replacement Safe Drive Away Time

The term Safe Drive Away Time refers to how long after your windshield is replaced that your car is safe to drive away SAFELY. This will vary depending on the adhesive type used when replacing your windshield. In some cases, it can be as little as an hour or as much as several hours. Type of adhesive, temperature, humidity are all factors when determining the time. Summer weather can have the adhesives cure quicker while winter weather can slow the process down.

Your certified technician will inform you of how much time is needed before driving away. If you take the car to the shop, you may be better leaving it there. If you are using the mobile service, this is probably not an issue.

What happens if you drive the car before the adhesive cures properly?

While it is an unlikely event that you will have an accident a few hours after your windshield is replaced, it can happen. Your windshield (properly installed) supports the vehicle’s roof. If the Safe Drive Away Time is ignored, the windshield may not stay in place in the event of a crash. You and your passengers are not safe at that point as the roof could cave in or be ejected through the opening. Knowing the SDAT could save your life

Minimum Drive Away Time

Recently the term Minimum Drive Away Time has been added to the windshield replacement vocabulary as it is more accurate, as it reflects a minimum amount of time needed before a vehicle could be considered to be operational and safe.

No matter what – Companies should stand behind their drive-away time. If it’s 30 minutes, then that’s the minimum time needed for the adhesive to cure. Some technicians may go further and add more time on top of that minimum, just in case.

Windshield Replacement Fresno

If your windshield gets chipped or cracked, should you repair or replace it? If you drive with a chip or cracked windshield long enough, that chip or crack can become a problem.

Windshields can take a beating. There could be gravel falling from uncovered construction trucks and the occasional chunk of unknown debris kicked up by cars passing by. In some ways, it’s amazing that windshields survive as long as they do.

Large and Small Repairs

The good news is that smaller chips and cracks can usually be repaired by a professional. A crack or chip can be safely repaired if it can be covered by a dollar bill. However, if the chip is directly in the drivers line of sight, there are more than three cracks or chips on the glass, the damage is at the edge of the windshield, or the windshield is old and covered with tiny divots, it should be replaced rather than repaired.

The repair process works by injecting a special resin into the chipped area. This should be handled by a professional.

If your windshield can be repaired, do it immediately. A small chip can spread across the windshield if you hit a big pothole, drive on a gravel road or make an aggressive turn. If you’re on the road away from home, a repair company can typically come to you.

A reason to repair your windshield before the crack grows and the windshield must be replaced: the windshield serves as a structural part in many vehicles that contributes to the overall strength of the vehicle.

If your windshield is severely pitted from sand, salt or other objects, replacing rather than repairing can be like getting a stronger eyeglass prescription, especially at night — it can improve visibility and make it easier to see while driving. Replacing opaque headlight covers can have a similar effect.

DIY Repair

You may also attempt to repair the chip or crack yourself. There are many do-it-yourself repair kits available at your local auto parts store, and they typically attempt to replicate the resin injection technique of the professionals. The difference, of course, is due to the quality of the tools and materials, and training and expertise of the person administering the repair.

Remember, a key function of the repair is to prevent the crack or chip from expanding or spreading, and also to help restore some of the structural integrity of the glass. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the DIY repair process, consider hiring a professional.

Repair if possible and logical. Replace if you must. And consider using a professional for best results.

Car Glass Repair

Are you doing anything wrong when you wash your car? Are you leaving streaks behind on the windshield, for instance? Are you leaving scratches on the glass? By avoiding these top three unsafe products, you will prevent a car glass repair.

Sponges

Sponges are probably the most commonly reached for product when it comes to washing a car. People associate sponges with cleanliness because they are regularly used to clean dishware. Sponges are meant to scrub, not gently clean. Sponges, when used to wash cars, can scratch at the paint. Worse yet is when they are used to wash car glass. They can end up harming the surface. Though signs of scratches may not appear right away, over months and years, you will notice them. It is important to refrain from using sponges to prevent a car glass repair.

Towels

Why not use a towel to dry a newly-washed vehicle? Chances are, you have done this numerous times. Just like with using a sponge to clean your car glass, using a towel to dry the glass can scratch the surface. While towels seem soft, they are not soft enough to use on a car glass.

Ammonia (glass cleaner)

Many household products contain ammonia in them, and ammonia is very harmful on cars. Though you can use glass cleaner on regular windows and mirrors, you should not use it on your car glass. Not only does ammonia leave streaks on auto glass, which creates glares while you drive, but it also can ruin the glass especially if it is tinted. Over time, ammonia will cause the tint to peel off, leaving you with terrible windows and windshield. It is best to steer clear of ammonia-based products if you do not want to deal with car glass repair.

What Can You Use?

Get a microfiber cloth, or two (one for washing and one for drying). A microfiber cloth is safe to use on a car’s paint and glass. It is soft and smooth and will not scratch. Next, go to an auto shop or a retail store with an auto shop section. There, you should find many products that are safe to use on car glass. Some examples are Armor All Auto Glass Cleaner, Mothers Glass Cleaner, Rain-X Automotive Glass Cleaner, and Invisible Glass Premium Glass Cleaner. These are recommended for washing car glass.

Preventing a car glass repair is not as complicated as it may seem. By avoiding everyday products you are using to wash your car, you will prevent major damages.

Tire Pressure Check

Proper maintenance of your car can be important for its long life and safe operation. Your tires are one of the most important parts of your car and checking the tire pressure is important. Regular maintenance is crucial to the safe and reliable performance of your vehicle.

When to check the tire pressure

Tire pressure should be checked once a month when tires are cold. Tire pressure can vary 1-2 pounds per square inch (psi) for every 10-degree difference in ambient temperature. Also you should consider checking your tire pressure more frequently in the following instances:

If you run over a sharp object
If you strike a curb
If the weather suddenly changes from warm to cold

How to check the amount of pressure in your tires

Remove the cap from the air valve of the tire by unscrewing it counterclockwise.
Press the tire gauge against the open valve stem. You will hear a hiss of air (perfectly normal).
Read the air pressure gauge. The number will appear on the dial or digital screen of the tire gauge.
Compare this number with the recommended tire pressure, found on the driver’s side door jamb.
Add air or let some out based on the recommendation.
Replace the tire’s air valve cap by screwing it back on clockwise.

How to inflate the car tires

Follow these steps to successfully inflate the tires to the correct pressure:

When you pull up to the air compressor, be sure the hose can reach all four tires.
Remove the stem caps by unscrewing them counterclockwise and set them to the side or put them in your pocket.
Check your tire’s psi using your own gauge or the gauge on the hose.
Press the hose nozzle down on the valve stem. Air may flow automatically or you may need to press the lever. You should feel the air flowing or hear the tire inflating.
Check the tire pressure by removing the hose fitting or releasing the inflation lever. Check the gauge on the hose or with your own gauge.
Adjust the pressure in all 4 tires the same way.
Once each tire is properly inflated, replace the valve caps by screwing them on clockwise.

Windshield – Repair or Replacement

There are several reasons for not replacing the windshields. Little do they realize the risk they’re putting themselves and their families in by not having cracked windshield repair. Windshield Repair or Replacement.

Excuses vary. Some say their insurance has a deductible that they currently can’t afford. Some say the crack doesn’t obstruct their view, while others say they just don’t see the necessity if it’s not shattered. It’s hard not to roll my eyes at all these answers. The purpose of this article is to tell you why it’s so important to have a good windshield on your vehicle and to give you some tips for when you make this very important purchase.

The Purpose of Your Windshield

Believe it or not, front windshields serve a much bigger purpose than just allowing you to see outside of the car when you’re driving. They also protect you from the rain, snow and other elements of weather. More importantly, however, are the safety features provided by your car’s windshield such as the 3 bullet points below.

It Acts As A Shield For Air Bags – Cheap, low-quality glass is more likely to crack or pop out, which can cause incorrect deployment or improper inflation of your air bags.
It Prevents The Roof From Collapsing – Many people don’t realize that the windshield of the car provides from 30% to 60% of the car’s structural strength. In a roll-over crash, a cheap windshield can cause your roof to collapse, which can be life-threatening to you and your passengers.
It Helps Prevent Ejection of Passengers in a Crash – Your windshield can also keep you from being thrown from your vehicle in the case of a collision. With the exception of seat belts, the windshield provides the most safety from being thrown from your vehicle. These are some of the many reasons why OEM glass is required by car manufacturers.

Safety Comes First

Purchasing auto glass for any part of your vehicle is more than just opening the phone book and choosing the first provider with the cheapest price. Safety should always be the #1 concern when we’re driving. Here are four safety questions you should ask windshield replacement service providers before you choose which one to use.

How Qualified are the Technicians Replacing Your Windshield? While windshield replacement service providers, also referred to as auto glass technicians, are not required to be licensed, they should be highly trained, experienced and knowledgeable of the whole process. With so many makes and models of vehicles around today all having different types and shapes of auto glass, windshield installation and replacement can be complicated. Ask your auto glass technician to provide proof they are certified. Do some research before hiring someone to do the job. Are they reputable? Will they take care of insurance paperwork for you? Check credentials while comparing costs!
What Type of Glass & Adhesive Do They Use? If your auto glass technician states he can get you a windshield cheaper than average, you should definitely question what type of glass is being used. Is it OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass? OEM glass is safer, sturdier and less prone to cracking. If you’ve gone so far as to require OEM glass, you will want to ask if they are using OEM adhesives as well. Low-quality adhesives do not work as well in wet or cold climates and take much longer to dry or cure. This can be a real problem if the car is used too soon after installation. In other words, the windshield may leak with the slightest impact if you start driving around before the urethane has time to dry.
How Soon Can You Drive Your Car After Installation? With the busy lives we all lead today, we seldom have the time to sit at a garage waiting for a new windshield to be installed. Auto glass providers often come to our home or place of business and do the work while we do our work. This is extremely convenient, but can be dangerous if we’re unknowingly driving the car before it’s ready. The glass and urethane need time to properly cure to the car in order to prevent future problems. This is known as “safe drive away time” and is listed on each bottle of urethane. Question your windshield replacement service provider on this safety issue, as well as if there are any precautions that should be taken a couple days after installation.
What Type of Warranty Do They Provide? If you’re like many others who have waited almost forever to finally replace your windshield, you’re going to want to make sure it last and, if it doesn’t, that they’ll replace it free. If you’re offered anything less than at least a 1-year warranty, question the type of glass that’s being used. Some companies may offer a lifetime warranty. If this is offered, you can almost assume they’re using high-quality OEM glass.

Windshield – Repair or Replacement

As much as you may want to put off spending money on your damaged windshield, it’s very possible you may only need a repair. A good rule of thumb is that if the crack is at least as long as a dollar bill, it should be replaced. Even if it’s shorter than a dollar bill, it should be replaced if it extends to the edge of the glass. If the chip or crack is smaller than a dollar bill and it’s not extended to the edge of the glass, it may be able to be safely repaired. Additionally, if the crack is in your line of vision, it needs to be replaced.

While all the glass on your car is important, the front windshield is most important in terms of having it fixed when it’s damaged. Something to consider, insurance companies often will pay to have a windshield repaired because it may prevent a larger expense if it shatters completely. Also, some insurance companies require a deductible be paid for replacements, while others may waive the deductible. Contacting your insurance company could save you money! That being said, the main concern here is safety and hiring a certified technician will ensure the job is done correctly whether you’re saving money through your insurance or not.