What Is Mobile Auto Glass Repair? Definition, Meaning and Concept
Mobile auto glass repair can take many different approaches to get to the finished product. While the typical version of a mobile auto glass repair operation involves the complete removal of a damaged windshield and the replacement of the glass with an aftermarket windshield, there are other approaches to repairing a windshield. Many mobile auto glass repair technicians only repair the chip in the windshield instead of replacing the entire windshield. By repairing just the chip, auto glass auto repair can cost much less and offer virtually the same results. Many times, the mobile auto glass repair technician must simply repair a leaking seal around a rear window or windshield.
In most areas of the world, it is a violation of the law to operate a vehicle with a broken or cracked windshield. It is usually for this reason that most mobile auto glass repair calls are made. The repair can usually be done at the customer's residence or place of employment, and typically takes less than an hour to complete. When making a service call, the year and model of the vehicle is required, as well as specific information about the windshield for that particular vehicle. To ensure that the proper replacement glass is brought to the repair site, the person performing the repair will ask about specific details, such as whether or not the windshield is tinted and whether the radio antenna works inside the windshield glass.
On vehicles equipped with airbag restraint devices, the windshield is an integral part of the restraint system. As the airbag deploys, the windshield contains it and holds it in place. The person who repairs mobile car glass must take care to properly seal the windshield to ensure that it provides support in the event of an airbag deployment. This often requires the use of a special adhesive that provides a much stronger bond and adds to the structural integrity of the windshield.
In the case of a windshield chip, a clear glue-like substance is injected into the crack to make the chip virtually invisible. The mobile auto glass repair technician will assess the chip and make sure it is not in the driver's direct line of sight. If it is in line with the operator's vision, the entire windshield should be replaced. If it is not in line of sight, it is first cleaned as best as possible to remove dirt and glass particles. A clear acrylic is then injected into the chip and allowed to harden. Once dry, it is gently shaved with a razor blade and then polished to complete the mobile glass auto repair.
