How to Replace a Windshield

Hello, my name is Dustin Deuth. Have you ever had a rock fly up and hit your window while you are driving and it cracks Well this is the perfect spot for you. I am going to show you how to replace your windshield. Since most people pay to get it fixed, these steps will show you how to replace a windshield saving you money versus paying someone for labor.

Supplies

First make sure you have the correct windshield and equipment. You do not want to take out the broken windshield if you do not have the correct one to put in. Every glass has a specific number depending on options so it is best to call your glass supplier with your VIN number to get the correct glass. Next acquire the tools and supplies you need to include gloves, glass cleaner, scuff pad, razor blade, urethane, primer, tape, caulk gun, (hand or powered), screwdriver and an Auto Glass Cutout Knife.

Step 1: Taking Out the Old Window

Step 1 is to disassemble the vehicle, using the hand tools to take off the rearview mirror, wipers, cowl panel and any molding around the windshield. Use the cut-out tool to cut through the urethane and free the windshield. Then have a buddy help pick up the window and move it completely out of the way without damaging the paint. 

Step 2: Clean Up the Frame of the Window

Next, take a pinch weld scraper tool to take of the remaining urethane. Try not to scratch the paint. Remove all rust spots with sandpaper or a wire brush to prevent it from spreading. Use a blow gun to remove any debris around the area, inspect for any corrosion on the pinch weld and clean up your work area before continuing.

Step 3: Prep the Window and the Frame

Right about now is where the gloves come in handy. Use glass cleaner to clean the new windshield where the new urethane will contact it. Use a scuff pad to scuff the edge of the new window and add the primer. Then apply the urethane primer to the the vehicle and go all the way around the window frame covering the old primer and any scratches to prevent corrosion.

Step 4: Putting the Urethane on

Then, lay a continuous bead of new urethane around the perimeter of the windshield frame. A battery powered caulk gun makes this job way easier. Then have the same buddy help set the window into place. Do it fast so the urethane doesn’t cure.

Step 5: Setting in the Window

After you get the windshield in place tap the outer edges of the window to push the window down into its place and put the tape on the top of the glass and roll it onto the roof of the car to prevent the window from sliding around while the urethane cures. Wait however long the urethane manufacturer says to. Finally, reinstall the windshield wipers, gaskets, cowl panel, rearview mirror and any other objects you removed back in the same spot. If necessary, take the car the dealer and have the ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance System) calibrated if you have a camera system built in. 

Step 6: Thank You

Now you know how to put in your own windshield with out paying for labor which can bring up the cost down quite a bit and you can help put in friend’s windows if you want. Thank you for taking the time to learn how to install a windshield and I hope you have a great day.