Fixing Your Car's Cracked Window

A cracked car door window can be repaired, but it depends on the type of damage. Small cracks can be fixed with epoxy or glass adhesive, creating a tighter seal and a longer-lasting finish. Temporary fixes include using super glue, clear nail polish, or heavy-duty tape to prevent the crack from spreading. However, these options are more short-lived and may not be as aesthetically pleasing. For larger cracks or more fragile glass, consulting a professional or investing in a full window replacement is recommended.

Temporary fixes for cracked car door windows

Temporary fixes for cracked car windows are just that—temporary. They are not meant to be permanent solutions and should be replaced with a new window as soon as possible. Here are some ways to temporarily fix a cracked car window:

Clear Packing Tape

Use clear packing tape to cover the cracks in your window. Start by laying strips of tape vertically from one end of the window to the other, slightly overlapping the strips to prevent gaps. Once the window is covered with vertical strips, lay horizontal strips over the top, working from the top to the bottom of the window. Repeat this process on the outside of the window for a stronger covering.

Plastic Bags

If you're not planning on driving your car, you can use a plastic bag to cover the window. High-density plastic bags are best as they are thicker and offer better protection. Stretch the bag tightly across the window and seal it with duct tape. You may need an extra pair of hands to keep the bag taut while taping. Repeat the process on the outside of the window for extra protection.

Crash Wrap

Crash wrap is a sticky-backed plastic on a roll that can be applied directly to your vehicle without chipping the paint. It is a fast and easy way to cover a broken window and will last a few weeks to a few months. Simply cut the plastic to the appropriate length and press it against the window frame.

Cardboard

Cardboard is not an ideal option as it is not see-through and will block your visibility. However, if you have no other choice, make sure to secure it properly with duct tape to avoid it flying away and causing an accident.

Remember to always use transparent materials for your temporary fixes and check with your local authorities to ensure your cover is roadworthy and legal.

Long-term fixes for cracked car door windows

Epoxy Repair

Epoxy repair is a labour-intensive but effective method to fix a cracked car door window. It involves the following steps:

• Clean the window gently with liquid dish soap and water, being careful not to apply too much pressure to the glass.
• Mix the epoxy according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Apply the epoxy carefully to the crack with a putty knife, ensuring it covers the entire length of the crack.
• Allow the epoxy to dry thoroughly.
• Remove any excess epoxy with a razor blade, and if needed, dab the area with acetone to aid in removal.
• Polish the window with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to restore shine and clarity.

Professional Repair

If you're unsure about performing the repair yourself, consider contacting a professional window repair company. They have the expertise and equipment to handle various types of glass and can provide a long-lasting solution. This option may be particularly beneficial for delicate glass found in historic cars.

Windshield Replacement

While it's more expensive, sometimes the best long-term solution is to replace the entire windshield. This is especially true if the crack is large, affects the driver's line of sight, or is located at the edges of the windshield, compromising structural rigidity.

Insurance Coverage

Before proceeding with any repairs, check with your car insurance agent to see if your policy covers windshield repairs. Some policies may cover the cost of repairs without any out-of-pocket expenses.

Using glass adhesive to repair cracked car door windows

Glass adhesive is a temporary solution to repair cracked car door windows. It is a cost-effective option that can help prevent further cracking and maintain the structural integrity of the window until a more permanent solution is found.

To repair a cracked car door window using glass adhesive, follow these steps:

Step 1: Purchase Glass Adhesive

You can buy glass adhesive online or at most auto maintenance stores. Make sure to select an adhesive designed for vehicle windows, as some adhesives may not be suitable for this type of repair.

Step 2: Prepare the Work Area

Lay clean cardboard on your work area to protect the surface. It is also important to work in a well-ventilated space. Gather all the necessary tools, including disposable gloves, a clean cloth or paper towels, and any other items included with your chosen glass adhesive.

Step 3: Clean the Window

Before applying the adhesive, it is crucial to clean the window thoroughly. Use a glass cleaner to remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the window, both inside and out. Ensure that the window is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Apply the Glass Adhesive

Follow the instructions provided with your chosen glass adhesive. Typically, you will apply the adhesive directly to the crack, filling it in carefully and thoroughly. Ensure that you work in a well-ventilated area during this step to avoid inhaling any fumes from the adhesive.

Step 5: Allow the Adhesive to Cure

Once you have applied the glass adhesive, you will need to let it cure or dry. Refer to the instructions on your chosen product for specific curing times, as they can vary. Some adhesives may take only a few minutes to cure, while others may take a day or two.

Step 6: Clean Up and Final Inspection

After the adhesive has fully cured, use a clean cloth or paper towels to wipe down the window and remove any fingerprints or residue. Inspect the repair to ensure that the adhesive has filled in the crack completely and effectively.

While glass adhesive is a temporary solution, it can be a useful and quick fix to address a cracked car door window. However, it is important to keep in mind that a more permanent solution, such as replacing the window, may be necessary in the long run.

Using nail polish or super glue to repair cracked car door windows

It is possible to use nail polish or super glue to repair a cracked car door window, but it is important to note that these are only temporary solutions to prevent the crack from spreading until you can get the window professionally repaired or replaced.

Using Nail Polish

To repair a cracked car door window using nail polish, follow these steps:

• Park your vehicle in a shaded area to prevent the sun from drying out the nail polish too quickly.
• Clean the damaged area with a soft cloth to remove dust and sand particles.
• Generously coat the crack with clear or acrylic nail polish, ensuring that it is completely covered from start to finish.
• Coat the inside of the glass with nail polish as well for added durability.

Using Super Glue

Alternatively, you can use super glue to repair a cracked car door window. Here's how:

• As soon as you notice the crack, park your vehicle and gather your supplies, including super glue and a napkin or paper towel.
• Clean the cracked area with a napkin or paper towel to remove any dirt or debris.
• Use super glue to fill the crack completely.
• (Optional) Wipe up any excess glue to help it dry faster and improve visibility.

Remember, these temporary fixes are not permanent solutions, and you should still have your car door window professionally repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Using tape to repair cracked car door windows

Using tape to repair a cracked car door window is a quick, temporary solution to prevent damage to your car's interior and theft of your personal belongings. This method is also helpful if you need to drive your car before getting the window permanently fixed.

First, put on some thick work gloves and remove any large pieces of broken glass from inside the car and the window frame. Use a hammer to dislodge any stubborn pieces. Dispose of the broken glass in a paper bag, sealing the bag with tape before throwing it away. Next, vacuum the car's interior thoroughly to remove any remaining glass shards.

Then, clean the window frame and seal with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any dirt and dust. Allow the window frame and seal to dry completely.

Now, you can apply the tape. One method is to create a lattice of clear tape, which provides an easy, clear, and cost-effective temporary solution. Starting from the inside of the vehicle, lay strips of clear packaging tape vertically across the window, slightly overlapping each strip to prevent gaps and create better coverage. Once the entire window is covered with vertical strips, lay horizontal strips over the top, working from the top to the bottom of the window. This will create a stronger covering. Repeat this process on the outside of the window.

Another method is to use a plastic garbage bag as a temporary window cover, secured with tape. Measure the length and width of your car window with a measuring tape. Cut a rectangle from the plastic garbage bag, slightly larger than your window measurements, to ensure the plastic can be pulled taut when taped to the car. Open the car door and attach the plastic to the top inner corner of the window frame with a piece of masking tape, placing the tape underneath the rubber window seal. Pull the plastic taut and secure it to the top outer corner with another piece of tape, again placing it underneath the rubber window seal. Secure the plastic with one or two more pieces of tape along the top of the window. Repeat this process for the bottom inner and outer corners of the window frame. Finally, apply one or two pieces of tape along the sides of the window to secure the plastic.

To create a stronger seal, cut six to eight long pieces of tape and adhere them around the entire window perimeter. Depending on your car model, you may need to use duct tape along the bottom of the window if the masking tape doesn't adhere well to the soft rubber of the door. However, be aware that duct tape may damage your car's paint when removed.

While these temporary fixes can be helpful, it's important to get your cracked car door window professionally repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Frequently asked questions