What You Should Know About Windshield Pitting: Can Windshield Pitting Be Repaired?

What is Windshield Pitting? 

Windshield pitting occurs when particles of debris like sand or salt hit your windshield at high speeds, causing small indentations in your windshield. Windshield pitting is common, and minor pitting is not life-threatening, but windshield pitting often builds up over time. Even UV rays from sun exposure can lead to windshield pitting. Windshield pitting can cause light to scatter through your windshield, creating a glare from street lights, the sun, or oncoming headlights. The scattered light from windshield pitting can also cause your visibility to become distorted, making it difficult to see through your windshield. Windshield pitting also reduces the structural integrity of your windshield, causing it to shatter differently if a collision were to occur. Pits can turn into chips and cracks over time, which are more noticeable and just as hazardous. 

Can Windshield Pitting Be Repaired?

While windshield pitting may be less noticeable than windshield cracks or chips, they are not as easily repaired. There is no reputable repair process for windshield pitting. The only option would be to sand or polish the pitted area, which can weaken the windshield, so it is not recommended. The only sure way to fix windshield pitting is to replace your windshield. If you notice severe pitting in your windshield, it is important to get your windshield replaced as soon as possible to keep you safely driving on the road. Because windshield pitting can affect visibility while driving, a professional auto glass technician will probably recommend a windshield replacement if the windshield pitting is severe enough. 

How Much Does it Cost to Fix Windshield Pitting? 

The only recommended solution to windshield pitting is a windshield replacement. The cost of a windshield replacement varies across several different factors. Some vehicles’ windshields may cost more than others, and different auto glass companies have different rates. The type of windshield you choose can also have an effect on the price. Overall, the average windshield replacement costs anywhere from $250 to $600, but can be more or less depending on the factors mentioned. 

It is also worth noting that if you have a newer vehicle, a windshield calibration will be necessary to ensure your ADAS safety features are functioning properly. The range tends to be between $250 to $400 depending on the make and model of your vehicle and their features.

To learn more about our ADAS calibration services click here.

Can Windshield Pitting Be Prevented? 

While it is nearly impossible to avoid windshield pitting entirely, there are some measures you can take to prevent severe windshield pitting and keep your windshield lasting for longer. 

• Driving Habits: Driving on loose gravel roads increases your likelihood of experiencing windshield pitting. If you have to travel on gravel roads, it is a good idea to reduce your speed and travel a good distance from any vehicles in front of you. This way, you can avoid gravel hitting your windshield at high speeds. 

• Smart Parking: Windshield pitting can be caused by flying debris. This debris can come from driving, but wind can also be the source of flying debris. Windshield pitting can also be caused by the sun’s UV rays. That being true, parking in an enclosure is best when possible. If you have to park outside, try to park where your vehicle is not in direct line of wind or sunlight. Parking behind a fence or building can block wind and debris from your windshield, too. 

• Wiper Maintenance: Overall maintenance of your windshield is a good way to keep windshield pitting to a minimum. This includes replacing your windshield wipers regularly to keep them from dragging debris across your windshield. It is recommended that you replace your windshield wipers every 6-12 months, depending on your everyday driving conditions. 

Do You Need a Windshield Replacement in the Edmond, OK Area?

Windshield pitting may seem like a minor problem, but it is important that you replace your windshield if you notice the windshield pitting is affecting your visibility or if the pitting is severe. Optic-Kleer offers in-shop and mobile services for windshield replacements. Whether you are at home, work, or in the grocery store parking lot, our auto glass technicians will come to you! If you are in need of a windshield replacement in Edmond, Arcadia, Nichols Hills, Piedmont, or surrounding areas, contact us today for a free quote!