A newly replaced rear window can move around, so it’s important to know what you can do to take proper care of it.
More often than not, recently installed rear windows get displaced when the sealant isn’t given enough time to set. The adhesive binding the window to the vehicle can also get washed away or scraped off.
The rear glass in the 2006 Sonata (pictured above) shattered because of South Alabama Summer heat. Nobody broke the glass. It shattered all by itself sitting in the sun on a hot summer day. This is more common than you think and has happened in hot parts of the country for decades.
But notice how the rear glass turns to tiny squares. It’s designed to do this so shards of glass won’t injure occupants during a crash. Auto glass companies will come to where you are and replace your front or rear windshields. Car side windows are made of the same type of glass as car rear glass.
As an aside, front windshields are of necessity, made of impact resistant, shatterproof glass that consists of two layers of glass with transparent rubber between them.
To ensure your new rear window can withstand the test of time, here are some handy tips.
Because car washes typically use high-power water jets to clean vehicles, they could scrape and damage the sealant of recently replaced rear windows.
The sealant needs around two or more days to dry and solidify. If you take your ride to a car wash during this period, the jets of water can destroy or wash off the sealant.
Going to a hand car wash soon after a rear window replacement is also not a good idea. Detergent and other cleaning solutions can damage the sealant (on top of other adhesives).
Because the sealant that keeps the rear window in place is sensitive when it’s first applied, it’s best to avoid driving your vehicle until it’s fully cured.
Curing is affected by numerous factors, such as temperature and humidity, as well as how skillfully the sealant was applied during installation. Because of this, there’s no set amount of time for how long it takes for sealant to cure.
Still, it’s always a good idea to give it a minimum of 24 hours to dry, harden, and set before you get back on the road.
First, always practice safe driving to reduce the risk of getting into accidents that can destroy your vehicle or parts of it like your new rear window.
Similarly, do your best to avoid driving on rough roads or closing car doors with too much force. Both of these actions cause the rear window to shake and vibrate. If the sealant isn’t secure, the window can dislodge and move around.
You can drive on bumpy roads again after the sealant has cured. On the other hand, it’s a good practice to refrain from slamming car doors shut entirely.
Heat puts a lot of strain on car windows. Even if heat is unlikely to melt or break the windows, it can still weaken them and make existing damage worse. Cracks and chips can expand, compromising the structural integrity of the glass.
The rear window gives drivers a way to view what’s behind their vehicle. It provides both protection and extra visibility, letting drivers see the vehicles, pedestrians, and other potential hazards behind them.
Rear windows also prevent theft and keep bugs, road debris, and harsh weather like rain and hail from entering the vehicle.
In some cases, rear windows help retain the shape of the vehicle during collision accidents by supporting the car frame. Their position also prevents passengers from flying out and debris from flying in the event of a crash.
Although rear windows are incredibly durable, they’re not indestructible and enough damage can require repairs or replacement.
Window damage that can be repaired includes chips in the glass and minor scratches. Anything more serious than that, such as deep cracks and fractures, would require total replacement.
If you see damage but are unsure of whether you should get your window replaced or merely repaired, take your ride to an auto repair shop for expert inspection.
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions concerning rear windows and rear window replacement.
While rear windows can be found on the back of the vehicle, windshields are located in the front. They also differ in material. Rear windows are usually made of tempered glass, while windshields consist of laminated glass.
More often than not, the rear windows of vehicles are made of tempered glass (also known as safety glass). This glass is approximately four times more durable than regular glass thanks to the tempering it goes through, which enhances its strength and bond with heat and pressure.
A normal rear window replacement costs between $200 to $500. Replacement costs vary depending on the vehicle’s year, make, and model, the window setup, and the mechanic.
When your vehicle’s rear window glass is broken beyond repair, there’s really no other option but to buy a new one.
The good news is that shopping for a high-quality rear window glass doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg when you do it here at CarParts.com.
Get a full-access pass to high-quality and affordable replacement parts when you shop from us. All our products also come with a low-price and lifetime replacement guarantee, so you never have to worry about going over budget for your repairs.
Find a direct-fit rear window glass for your ride by entering its specifications into our vehicle selector. You can also use the search filters to find a rear window glass according to your preferred brand, quantity, and more.
With CarParts.com, you won’t have to wait long to get the part you need. Thanks to our fast shipping services, you can get your new rear window glass delivered straight to your doorstep in as fast as two business days.
Can’t shop online? Don’t worry! Call us anytime using our toll-free hotline, and our team of customer service professionals will be ready to assist you.
Shop now!
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.