A small chip may seem harmless. However, vibrations, temperature changes and stresses through the bodywork can turn this localised damage into a crack and cause it to spread quickly.
The question “can you still drive?” does not depend on one universal measurement. The position, extent, depth and progression of the damage must be assessed, together with the driver's visibility and any equipment installed behind the windscreen.
Can you drive with a cracked windscreen?
There is no single “yes” or “no” answer that applies to every case. A localised chip outside the driver's field of vision is not comparable to a long crack in front of the driver or damage that reaches the edge of the glass.
In Switzerland, regulations require a windscreen to maintain sufficient visibility for the driver if it is damaged. The official requirements are set out in the ordinance on the technical requirements for road vehicles.
If visibility is impaired, the crack is spreading or the windscreen has several areas of damage, avoid using the vehicle unnecessarily until you have received professional advice.
What is the difference between a chip and a crack?
A chip is usually localised damage caused by a stone or another object. It may take several forms, including a star, bull's-eye, small break or combination of fractures.
A crack is a fracture line that may begin at the chip and spread through the glass. Once a crack has developed, the likelihood of a successful repair decreases and replacement often becomes necessary.
A laminated windscreen is designed to remain together because of its intermediate layer, but this does not mean that all damage can be ignored. Visibility and the condition of the glass remain decisive.
Which types of damage need prompt inspection?
Seek advice promptly when:
- the chip or crack is in the driver's field of vision;
- the crack grows from one day to the next or while driving;
- the damage reaches or is very close to the edge of the windscreen;
- several chips are present or join together;
- the windscreen wipers no longer clean the area properly;
- a camera, sensor or projection area is located behind the damage;
- the glass was damaged during a more significant impact;
- deformation, water ingress or an unusual noise appears.
Damage outside the driver's field of vision can also spread. The absence of an immediate obstruction is therefore not enough to conclude that it can wait several weeks.
Can a chip be repaired, or does the windscreen need replacing?
Some chips can be stabilised by injecting resin. When technically appropriate, a repair allows the original windscreen to be retained and avoids replacement.
The decision depends in particular on:
- the type and extent of the damage;
- its depth and the layers of glass affected;
- its position in relation to the driver's field of vision;
- its distance from the edge of the windscreen;
- the number of chips;
- the presence of sensors, cameras, aerials or heating elements;
- the requirements of the vehicle and glass manufacturers.
A developed crack, damage in a critical area or a chip that cannot be stabilised reliably will generally require a complete replacement.
How can you reduce the risk of the crack spreading?
While waiting for the inspection:
- avoid pouring very hot water onto a cold or frozen windscreen;
- avoid a sudden difference between the interior heating and the glass temperature;
- avoid badly damaged roads and strong vibrations where possible;
- do not press the damaged area or attempt an improvised repair;
- avoid directing a high-pressure jet straight at the chip;
- have the damage inspected before it becomes contaminated or spreads.
These precautions do not repair the windscreen. They only reduce stress on the glass until the work can be carried out.
Cracked windscreens, vehicle inspections and insurance
The condition of the glass and the driver's visibility are among the points that may be checked during a vehicle inspection. Damage in an important area or affecting visibility may therefore need to be repaired before the inspection.
Insurance cover depends on the comprehensive policy, excess and insurer's conditions. Some policies distinguish between repairing a chip and replacing the entire windscreen and may specify a partner network or particular conditions.
Before confirming the work, check the cover, applicable excess and whether you are required to use an approved provider. Keep a photo of the damage and information about the circumstances of the impact.
Why might ADAS calibration be necessary?
Many modern vehicles use a camera positioned behind the windscreen for lane-keeping assistance, traffic-sign recognition, emergency braking and other functions.
After the windscreen has been replaced, static, dynamic or combined calibration may be required, depending on the vehicle and the manufacturer's instructions. This verifies that the camera interprets its surroundings correctly.
The replacement must also take account of the type of glass, sensors, aerials, heating elements, mouldings and the adhesive's safe drive-away time before the vehicle returns to the road.
Send the information
Send the vehicle registration document, the chassis number if requested and photos of the damage.
Identify the correct glass
The camera, sensors, heating, tint and other equipment must be checked before ordering.
Confirm the arrangements
The type of work, insurance, excess, price and location are confirmed before the work begins.
Repair or replace
The work, safe drive-away time and any required calibration are handled according to the vehicle.
Cracked windscreen in Geneva: how can Depamec help?
Depamec offers windscreen chip repair and replacement in Geneva. When technical, weather and safety conditions allow, the work can be arranged at the vehicle's location.
Send a close-up photo of the damage, another showing its position across the whole windscreen and the vehicle registration document. These details allow us to identify the vehicle, check the glass required and prepare the insurance arrangements.
After assessing the information, Depamec will tell you whether a repair appears possible or a replacement needs to be arranged, along with any calibration work that may be required.
Frequently asked questions about cracked windscreens
Can you drive with a cracked windscreen?
It depends on the position, extent and progression of the damage, as well as visibility. If the crack obstructs the driver's view, grows or is close to an edge or camera, have the vehicle inspected before driving any farther than necessary.
What is the difference between a chip and a crack?
A chip is localised damage caused by an object. A crack is a fracture line that may start from the chip and spread through the glass.
Can a windscreen chip or crack be repaired?
Some chips can be repaired, but the decision depends on their type, size, depth, location, distance from the edge and whether they are in the driver's field of vision or in front of a camera.
When does a windscreen need replacing?
Replacement is necessary when the damage cannot be repaired reliably, obstructs visibility, reaches a critical area, continues to spread or affects equipment associated with the windscreen.
Does insurance cover a cracked windscreen in Switzerland?
Cover depends on the policy, excess and insurer's conditions. Check the level of cover and any approved-network requirements before confirming the work.
Does the camera need calibrating after a windscreen replacement?
On a vehicle equipped with a camera or windscreen-related driver assistance systems, the manufacturer may require calibration after replacement.