In the past, you had to wait 24 hours after a windshield replacement to operate your motor vehicle safely. Thanks to recent advancements in adhesives, such a long wait period is no longer necessary. Read on to discover whether you can drive as soon as your windshield is replaced and things you should keep in mind after your windshield replacement. 

Can You Drive Immediately After Windshield Replacement?

No, it is not safe to drive immediately after your windshield is replaced. For your safety, it is crucial to wait for a short period for the adhesive to dry. Once the adhesive has set to an extent, you don’t have to worry about your windshield caving in.

That said, it is highly advisable to take back roads until the adhesive has been set fully. If you drive too fast and get into a motor vehicle accident, you run the risk of your airbags not deploying or your roof caving in. 

How Soon After Windshield Replacement Can You Drive? 

At Arizona Auto Glass Pros, we use the most advanced adhesives, so you can drive your vehicle safely as quickly as possible after having your windshield replaced. While you may have to wait three to five hours to drive your vehicle safely if traditional adhesives are used, you can drive your vehicle safely after just 30 minutes of having your windshield replaced by us. 

That said, consider the weather before you schedule your windshield replacement. It takes between 24 and 48 hours for the adhesive to form a complete, waterproof seal. While it’s rarely a concern in Mesa, you should schedule your windshield replacement when there isn’t a rain forecast within 24 hours. However, you should schedule your windshield replacement right away and have someone drive you to work depending on the severity of the glass crack. 

Can You Ever Drive Immediately After Having Glass Replaced?

Yes, it is safe to drive immediately after a side window is replaced. Additionally, you are free to drive your vehicle immediately after a crack in your windshield has been repaired. 

What Factors Affect How Quickly The Adhesive Will Dry?

Many factors affect how quickly the adhesive will dry after your old, irreparable windshield has been replaced. Among these are the weather and type of windshield. 

Weather

The warmer it is outside, the faster the adhesive will dry and bond. Luckily, it is rarely humid in Mesa, so you shouldn’t have to worry about humidity in the air slowing the adhesive’s ability to dry. If it is humid outside, it may take a little longer for the adhesive to dry. 

Windshield Type

The type of windshield you have also affects how quickly the adhesive will dry significantly. Modern vehicles are often fitted with such technology as sensors and built-in displays. If you have a modern windshield, you should wait an hour to drive your vehicle after having your windshield replaced. Old-fashioned windshields dry much faster than modern windshields. 

Book Your Appointment Today!!

While you can’t safely drive immediately after having your windshield replaced, you may safely drive immediately if you have your side window replaced. Arizona Auto Glass Pros offers trusted auto glass and windshield replacement in Mesa, AZ, and the greater Valley of Phoenix area. For a quick replacement of your auto glass performed by a friendly, certified technician, contact us today to book your appointment.

If you have a chip or small crack in your windshield, bring in your vehicle so we can assess it and determine whether a repair or glass replacement is necessary. If you have a crack that is so large your vision is obstructed, let us know. We have a mobile fleet and can send someone out regardless of where you are.