The windshield is an important safety feature of your car. It protects you and your passengers from dirt, rain, and other harmful elements on the road. However, the windshield is fragile and prone to damage. Replacement is the best option for handling a damaged windshield. Here are five warning signs you need windshield replacement.

1. Compromised View

Your view should be clear at all times when you're driving. A compromised view caused by cracks and scratches will prevent you from seeing things clearly when you're on the road and put you at risk of getting into an accident. Get a new windscreen to enhance your driving ability.

2. Cracked Windshield

A cracked windshield is an alarming sign that you need to replace your windshield. According to Insurance Journal, edge cracks are responsible for 70-80% of windshield replacement claims. Edge cracks occur when the first two inches around the windshields have a manufacturing defect known as residual stresses created during annealing. The edges around the perimeter are the weakest part of the windshield and fracture more easily than other parts. Cracks on your windshield can distort your view and prevent you from making quick decisions when driving.

3. Discolored Windscreen

Many drivers don't consider discoloration as a significant windscreen issue. Windshields are treated with a protective plastic that prevents them from breaking into small pieces. White discoloration is a sign that the protective material is separating from the windscreen glass. Therefore, the windshield can scatter in all directions if you're involved in an accident.

4. Old Wiper Blades

Your windshield's wiper blades should be functional at all times to clear rainwater in one wipe. If water droplets remain on your windscreen after wiping, your wiper blades are broken. Also, wiper blades should work with minimal noise. Your wiper blades could be broken if they are producing noises like screeching and squeaking. Replace your windshield if it is not wiping water clearly or is producing unusual noises and replacing your wiper blades doesn't fix the issue.

5. Scratches

It is normal to have a few scratches on your windscreen. The scratches could be because the wiper blades are worn out. Extensive windshield scratches will obscure your driving vision putting you at risk of getting into an accident. Schedule an appointment with a mechanic to replace your windshield if it has many scratches.

Be on the lookout for these signs to determine if you need windshield replacement. Contact windshield professionals if you need windshield replacement.