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Tue Feb 02, 2010 9:58 pm

hey everyone, just curious if there is any danger or laws regarding a cracked windshield. The crack goes from one end of the window to the other and kinda is spread around in different cracks. I have been driving it like this for about 6 months with no problems just wondering if there is any danger in this? I guess it would be easier for it to break if it was hit with something but barring something that would probably break it anyway I think it may still be functional in a sense.

Tue Feb 02, 2010 10:08 pm

It could shatter over any bump you go over, as the crack makes it much weaker and more vulnerable to shatter on even small bumps. I'd say just get a new one. Or drive it until it breaks, your decision.

Tue Feb 02, 2010 10:55 pm

Each state if going to have different laws, but if you have much of a crack you should just replace it anyway. You can probably get a new windshield for around $150 if you do the installation yourself. Good time to take care of the rust issues around the windshield as well.

Tue Feb 02, 2010 11:28 pm

So would any windshield place be able to cut me a windshield? Thanks for all the info and thoughts on this stuff so far, consorting these forums is a must for just about every move I make with the van.

Tue Feb 02, 2010 11:33 pm

A cracked windshield is a visual impairment. It is just as strong cracked or not. The strength in a windshield is offered by the plastic laminate. They will not shatter ,the crack could grow to an end and stop . In any case it is still as structural as before it broke.
Most states laws are similar, generally ANY crack in the wiper path is subject to violation. Different states may define critical view areas,but that is a good guide line.
The most important thing is to have repairable cracks repaired when possible. Any thing in drivers line of sight ( above steering wheel,left of mirror and in wiper path) should not be repaired. Be realistic ,when the glass is pitted ,faded or has a wiper streak just replace it. It's kinda like flushing excrement with sparkling water .

Stacy

Tue Feb 02, 2010 11:34 pm

A cracked windshield is a visual impairment. It is just as strong cracked or not. The strength in a windshield is offered by the plastic laminate. They will not shatter ,the crack could grow to an end and stop . In any case it is still as structural as before it broke.
Most states laws are similar, generally ANY crack in the wiper path is subject to violation. Different states may define critical view areas,but that is a good guide line.
The most important thing is to have repairable cracks repaired when possible. Any thing in drivers line of sight ( above steering wheel,left of mirror and in wiper path) should not be repaired. Be realistic ,when the glass is pitted ,faded or has a wiper streak just replace it. It's kinda like flushing excrement with sparkling water .

Stacy

Tue Feb 02, 2010 11:34 pm

Unless you have chopped the roof down and need a custom windshield any windshield place should be able to get a windshield for you easily.
Our own stacy schneider a glass installer has said this in the past- Quote: I run a "XYG" brand chinese part and am very happy with it. I prefer the European type green shade over the American type blue shade. To me putting a blue shaded glass in a Volkswagen is like putting White wall tires on it.
I make a living hustling glass and have all brands available to me and I still like the "XYG" for this vehicle.
In case you want one as well here,, is the part number for the glass industry for this part "FW 416 GGN"

Wed Feb 03, 2010 6:47 am

Hi: If you check with your insurance company a windshield replaced is usually free after the deductable is paid. Some auto glass shops may even waive the deductable. Call your insurance co. or at least read your policy...for $500 ( the usual deductable) they do the work and it's done right.

Wed Feb 03, 2010 7:33 am

I've gotten quite a few vanagon windshields and most recently have been right around $200-$250 installed. Bear in mind when calling various companies that they will try to beat other companies' prices.

Wed Feb 03, 2010 8:04 am

Did mine through state farm last year. Was either 100 or 150 installed.

Wed Feb 03, 2010 12:27 pm

State Farm gladly replaced my windshield and seal at no out of pocket expense.
Good company that State Farm is