Tag Archives: Car Glass Fresno

After the Windshield Installation

After you get a new windshield installed, you want it to perform well. Here are tips what to do and what not to do in the days following a windshield replacement.

Inspect the Install

Closely examine the installation. Look for gaps in the seal around your windshield. Make sure the gasket is correctly installed. Take your car for a test drive to listen for any air noise around the install.

Get Your Warranty Paperwork

Our technicians will provide you a receipt when the installation is complete. Warranty information will be included.

Take it easy

The first 24 hours is crucial for the success of your installation. Auto glass installation is fragile during this period. Try not to slam your doors. It’s a good idea to crack your door windows about 1/4 inch if you can to avoid pressure build-up. The first 24 hours is a good time for the gasket to seat and seal.

Avoid the Car Wash

Some car washes use cleaners or cleaning agents on the car during the first 3 days and those can damage the windshield seal. If the installers used a special tape to preserve the installation, do not remove for 24 hours. However, your installers probably told you that.

Check your Driving Route

As an added precaution, check your route to and from your office or other routes. Chances are, you windshield got damaged because of a random rock or road debris. If this is the case, you may want to take a different route if possible, avoiding construction areas or neighborhoods with road debris.

The first 24 hours might be the most important. By being careful during that time, your windshield will perform like new.

Need a new windshield. Let 7 Stars Auto Glass in Fresno install your new windshield. Our certified technicians will instruct you and the dos and don’ts for the first 24 hours. Call today.

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.

Cracked Windshield Repair

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.

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 – Replacement or Repair?

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.

Power Window Repair Fresno

Is your power window jammed? We can fix it. When power windows jam in the open position, it is important to get a power window repair right away.

Keep the rain outside the car, not inside.

If you are driving with a jammed power window and a rain storm comes up suddenly, your car’s interior can get drenched. Besides that, it is distracting. If you have a jammed window, act fast. Getting a power window repair prevents rain from ever entering your car. This way, you will not get into accidents because you got drenched while trying to concentrate on the road.

Thieves can see your car’s contents

Another important reason to get a power window repair is to prevent thieves from breaking into your car. Just picture your jammed window, which is open just a crack, leaving room for thieves to unlock your car. Having an open (or even broken window) tempts thieves. It is best to protect your car by getting a repair. This way, the chance of a thief eyeing your car decreases.

Your window can shatter

If your power window has a chip or crack in it, then it definitely needs a repair. A big reason for that is because the damage can get worse. Although a tiny chip might appear harmless, it is not. Imagine driving on the road when your window shatters. If you happen to be right next to that window, the glass might fly at you. This can be dangerous on the road. Avoiding this situation is best, and you can do it by taking your car for a repair.

The weather outside may be frightfully cold or hot

It is impossible to keep outside temperatures stay outside since you have a jammed power window. If you have a jammed or broken power window, hot or cold air can seep in. While it might be fun to have the windows down occasionally, if it is freezing or hot, this isn’t ideal. Getting a power window repair is a wise choice. It will protect you from extreme weather temperatures and keep your attention on the road.

Getting a power window repair is important, even essential, if you have a jammed car window. It ensures your safety on and off the road.

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.

Car Glass Protection

Did you know that your windshield is very necessary for the structural integrity of your car? It’s true. Without the windshield, the roof of your car can easily collapse, since the glass is what holds it up. That’s why it’s essential to take care of your windshield by keeping it clean and sturdy, without any damages. Another way to protect your windshield from damage is by replacing the windshield wipers when they start getting old and worn out. This car care Fresno tip is a must to follow.

Measuring and Purchasing the Blades

Wiper blades are only the rubber assembly portion of the windshield wipers, not the wiper arms. This means that, when you are replacing your wipers, you are not removing everything. In order to find out whether it is time to remove the wiper blades and replace them with new ones, check the rubber for any scratches or cuts. If you find any, then that indicates that it is time to change them. Then, you will need to measure the wiper blades by length. Make sure to measure both wiper blades, as they often have different measurements. Once you know how long each wiper blade has to be, take the measurements to an auto parts or auto glass store and purchase the new wiper blades. Lots of times, you can even ask a car care Fresno specialist at the auto glass store to help you find the right measurements.

Removing the Windshield Wipers

To remove the rubber assembly, you should do the following in this specific order:

Raise the wiper arm (one wiper at a time) away from the windshield. It is recommended that you place a towel against the windshield during this time to guard the glass in case the wiper arm snaps back into place.
After the wiper arm is set vertically, look for the joint that connects the rubber assembly and the wiper arm together. In this joint, you will find a small tab. This is what you have to push on in order to unlock the joint.
While pushing on the joint’s tab, take your other hand and use it to carefully hit down on the rubber assembly. This move will aid you in sliding the wiper blades down the wiper arm and freeing it of the arm’s hook.
On the other hand, if your wiper arm has a pin instead of a joint hook, all you need to do is unfasten the lock located above the pin and then proceed to pull out the pin out of the hole that is on the side of the wiper blade assembly.

Installing the New Wiper Blades

Installing the new wiper blades is similar to removing them. Just as you have unhooked the rubber assembly, you will now hook it. If the wiper arm has a hook, you will take the new wiper blades and slide them into the hook end. Pivot the wiper blades until the hook snaps into place. When you hear the snap, you can be sure that the wiper blades are secure. However, if the wiper arm has a pin instead, then you will need to push up on the lock that is on the rubber assembly and, while doing so, insert the pin in the hole. Then push down on the lock to secure the wiper blades into place.

Replacing old wiper blades with new ones doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these car care Fresno tips, you’ll be an expert on changing windshield wipers and you will be protecting your car’s glass at the same time.

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.