You just got a brand-new windshield, nice! Finally, a clear view again. But before you drive off and enjoy it, there’s one more important step to protect that investment: making sure everything looks and functions exactly as it should, so your warranty will fully cover you if anything comes up later. A new windshield might look perfect at first glance, but small issues like uneven sealing, minor distortion, or incomplete calibration can turn into bigger problems if they’re not caught early. Taking a few minutes to double-check the installation now can save you from unnecessary repairs, leaks, or visibility issues down the road.
5 Things to Check After Your Windshield Is Replaced
5 Things to Check After Your Windshield Is Replaced
You just got a brand-new windshield, nice! Finally, a clear view again. But before you drive off and enjoy it, there’s one more important step to protect that investment: making sure everything looks and functions exactly as it should, so your warranty will fully cover you if anything comes up later. A new windshield might look perfect at first glance, but small issues like uneven sealing, minor distortion, or incomplete calibration can turn into bigger problems if they’re not caught early. Taking a few minutes to double-check the installation now can save you from unnecessary repairs, leaks, or visibility issues down the road.
Most auto glass warranties cover things like stress cracks, leaks, or defects in materials and workmanship. What they don’t usually cover is damage from poor care, missed calibration, or ignoring issues right after installation. That’s why a quick post-replacement check is a smart move.
Here are 5 things to look at right after your windshield is replaced to help keep your warranty valid and your car safe.
1. Give the Glass a Close Look
Start with the obvious: Do a slow walk‑around and check the following:
No chips, scratches, or scuffs on the glass
No waves or distortion when you look through it at straight lines (like a building edge or light pole)
No haze or cloudiness in your field of vision
Then sit in the driver’s seat and look through the new glass like you normally would. If the view looks warped, blurry, or distracting, that’s not how new glass looks. It can be a sign of a defective windshield or incorrect installation.
So, take a moment to check the edges where the glass meets the frame as well. The transition should be smooth, even, and securely sealed all the way around. Any uneven gaps, lifted edges, or visible adhesive smudges can indicate installation errors that may affect long-term durability, visibility, and safety.
2. Inspect the Seal, Trim, and Interior Clean‑Up
Your windshield isn’t just the glass. The seal and molding around it are just as important. The black rubber or plastic molding around the glass should sit tight and even, with no gaps sticking up or loose edges. There must be no visible gaps between the glass and the car body. Inside the car, look at the dashboard and A‑pillars. They should be clean, not full of stray glue, glass dust, or fingerprints.
A little bit of leftover tape or a hint of sealant smell can be normal right after installation, but big blobs of adhesive or obviously crooked trim are red flags. Most workmanship warranties cover leaks, wind noise, and loose moldings but only if you flag them quickly.
Take a moment to gently press along the edges to be sure everything feels secure and properly aligned. Well-installed trim should not shift or flex under light pressure. If anything seems loose, uneven, or out of place, it’s better to point it out immediately before driving away. Proper sealing now prevents long-term issues like moisture buildup, rattling, or premature windshield failure.
3. Make Sure All the “Extras” Were Reinstalled Correctly
Modern windshields are more than just glass. They’re loaded with attached parts and tech. After a replacement, check that everything that was removed is back where it belongs. Here are the things you can keep in mind.
The rearview mirror should be firmly attached. It should not be loose or wobbly.
Rain sensor wipers should still switch on automatically in the rain if your car has this feature.
Lane departure or forward‑collision camera (if equipped): the housing should be properly clipped in, not dangling or loose.
Plastic cowl panel at the base of the windshield should sit flush with no missing clips.
Wiper arms and blades must be operating smoothly, not hitting the glass trim.
4. Confirm ADAS / Camera Calibration and Check Your Dashboard
If your vehicle has ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), things like lane‑keep assist, forward collision warning, or automatic emergency braking the windshield replacement often requires camera calibration.
After the installation, ask for a calibration report or printout if the shop performed it. Also, make sure the paperwork clearly states the calibration was completed and passed. Secondly, check your dash and features. There should be no new warning lights related to safety systems. Your Lane assist, adaptive cruise, and other features must still work as expected.
5. Read and Follow the Care Instructions & Keep Your Paperwork
Finally, the boring part that actually saves you: instructions and documents.
Most installers give a set of “do’s and don’ts” for the first 24–48 hours, like:
Don’t slam doors too hard (pressure can disturb uncured adhesive).
Don’t remove any retention tape too early.
Avoid high‑pressure car washes for a certain period.
Crack a window slightly on hot days to relieve cabin pressure.
Even if they only told you verbally, follow those rules. A few minutes of checking now can save you from arguments, denied claims, and another replacement later and it helps make sure your windshield warranty actually means what you think it does.
Hopefully, these tips help you keep your windshield in top condition and your warranty fully intact all year long. Call us today at 703-867-0275 to schedule your appointment, or request a free quote directly on our website https://autoglassexpressweb.com/ to get started.
We, at Auto Glass Express, provide fast, dependable, and professional auto glass solutions throughout Virginia and Maryland. From cracked windshields to damaged side windows and full replacements, skilled technicians handle every job with care to ensure drivers return to the road safely and without delay. With extensive industry experience and a strong focus on quality workmanship, the entire process is streamlined, featuring mobile service, flexible scheduling, and attentive customer support.
The company partners with all major insurance providers and also offers convenient financing options to keep repairs and replacements affordable. Only premium materials and precise installation methods are used, helping ensure durability and long-lasting performance. At Auto Glass Express, safety is the highest priority and customer satisfaction remains a core standard of every service provided. Stay safe, drive clear, and let Auto Glass Express keep your view crystal‑sharp.