How to Replace a Windshield

  1. Use hand tools to remove the rearview mirror and any hardware attached to the old windshield.
  2. Remove the wiper blades, windshield gasket and plastic molding around the windshield perimeter.
  3. Separate the windshield from the pinch weld with a cold knife or razor.
  4. Use a cold knife to cut the urethane seal around the perimeter of the windshield.
  5. Remove the old windshield. Be careful not to damage the paint or bonding surface.Now you should have an empty windshield frame. Use a razor blade scraper to remove as much of the old urethane as possible. Be careful not to scratch the paint or the bonding surface. Don’t worry if you can’t remove all the old urethane, a thin layer helps the new urethane form a stronger bond. Remove any rust spots with sandpaper or a wire brush to prevent it from spreading. Clean up the bonding surface with a stiff nylon brush to remove any loose particles. Vacuum any debris around the area and clean up your work area before continuing.
  6. Use glass cleaner to clean the new windshield perimeter where the urethane will contact it.
  7. Apply a urethane primer to the old urethane and perimeter of the windshield.
    1. Not all urethanes require this step, so be sure to follow the instructions specific for your product.
  8. Lay a continuous and even bead of urethane around the perimeter of the windshield frame.
    1. An electric or air powered caulk gun makes this job a lot easier. If you only have a hand powered caulk gun, place the urethane in a bowl of warm water for one hour before applying.
    2. Fill any gaps in the urethane bead before you continue.
  9. Install the windshield as soon as possible to prevent the urethane from curing before installation.
  10. Use suction cup window holders to lower the new windshield into place, ask a friend to help.
  11. Position the windshield in the correct spot.
  12. Use tape to hold the windshield in place and prevent it from sliding around while the urethane cures.
  13. Allow the urethane to cure for the allotted time specified by the manufacturer.
  14. Reinstall the windshield wipers, gasket, plastic molding, rearview mirror and any hardware you removed.
  15. If necessary, take the car to a dealer to have the ADAS recalibrated.
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Dallas                Plano
McKinney          Celina
Prosper             The Colony
Allen                  Lewisville
Little Elm           Coppell
Flower Mound   Grapevine
South lake         Addison
Farmers Branch Richardson
Garland             Sachse
Wylie                 Rock Wall
Mesquite           Highland Park
University Park    Irving
Duncanville         DeSoto
Lancaster           Carrollton
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