You have an older car with a cracked or broken windshield. You don't want to put much money into your older vehicle, but you also don't want to drive around with a compromised windshield. Is the windshield worth fixing? Use this guide to help you, and your auto detailer or mechanic will give you an estimate for how much your costs will be.

Your crack or chip is large

A large crack or chip, particularly one that blocks your main line of vision, can be dangerous. This is for two reasons: first, the crack or chip can easily spread, making your windshield more likely to break completely in the future should your glass get impacted again, you drive at high speeds, or other factors. Another reason is this: a cracked or chipped windshield that blocks your line of vision in any way can make it harder for you to see clearly on the road, which can lead to an accident.

You can also get a ticket if your windshield is heavily compromised since you are technically considered a driving hazard. Get your windshield replaced if the damage is severe; smaller cracks and chips can merely be repaired with a resin filler.

You drive your car often

If you drive your older vehicle as your main form of transportation, then you should get the windshield repaired or replaced. This is because your car has to be in good reliably working condition at all times. If your windshield gets even more chipped or shatters completely, you're left without a vehicle until you get the glass issue taken care of. It's best to prevent future damage by having smaller issues taken care of now.

You want to sell your car

Are you planning on selling your older car in the future, or perhaps use the car as a trade-in at your local auto dealership? If so, having a cracked or otherwise compromised windshield can make your car harder to sell. Or, you may not get as many offers at the price you want for your vehicle because of the damaged glass. Since your windshield replacement or repair costs may not be that large, consider repairing this part of your vehicle before putting it up for sale. This way, you can get the most out of your original investment so you have more funds to put towards a new car. Your auto windshield repair specialist will tell you how much your repairs will be.