How to Install a Windshield

Co-authored by Ed Beery

Last Updated: January 13, 2023 References

Driving with a cracked windshield is hazardous and may be illegal. And while getting your windshield replaced professionally can be expensive, it is usually worth it — windshields are difficult to install and can be dangerous if installed improperly. But if you still feel confident in your DIY abilities, all you'll need are a few tools, a friend, a new windshield, and some caution to proceed.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Removing Your Old Windshield

1
Enlist an assistant. You'll need at least one other capable, strong person to help you remove and install your new windshield.
- Windshields are difficult to handle and can be dangerous. Be very cautious when removing a windshield and get a helper to move the windshield.
2
Replace your windshield when it becomes cracked, broken, or damaged. Damaged windshields are illegal to drive with and can impair your vision. If you have any cracks, replace your windshield as soon as possible to prevent tickets or more serious damage.
- Before embarking on this project, check with your insurance company to see if a windshield replacement is covered. If so, you may be able to take your car to a body shop and have it replaced without a hefty bill.
- If the situation is so bad that there is concern that the windshield may break apart due to the crack, do not drive the vehicle if possible and have the windshield repaired or replaced.
- If possible, keep the vehicle with the cracked windshield inside and in a more consistent temperature environment while you don't replace the windshield. This will also reduce the risk from temperature changes from your defroster/heater blowing on a cold windshield or cold AC air hitting a hot windshield.
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3
Protect yourself and the car from damage. Using a heavy blanket or tarp, cover the front seats and dashboard to protect them from glass, debris, or any dripping urethane — a chemical used to seal the windshield in place. You and an assistant should always wear gloves and protective glasses while working
4
Remove both windshield wiper arms using a socket wrench. Set these aside to be re-attached later.
5
Remove and discard the clips around the windshield molding. These may be on the inside or outside of the car. Since you will need new ones for your new window, you can throw these out. ^{[1]
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6
Peel away the molding protecting the old windshield. You may need to use a small knife or crowbar to get it off at first; some trim will require special trim removal tools to prevent trim damage. Remove the urethane weather stripping as well so that only the windshield remains.
- You may also use a knife to cut the seal along the perimeter before you try to pull it off. ^{[2]
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7
Lubricate the perimeter of the windshield gasket with a silicone-based lubricant. This will make it easier to slide the windshield out later. Apply lubricant around the edge between the windshield and the car frame.
- Wait several minutes for the lubricant to seep into the cracks before you move on. ^{[3]
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- Make sure the seal all the way around the windshield has been cut with a windshield removal cut tool.
- Very carefully work a rounded rod (a small phillips screwdriver or a tire repair tool also work great) between the gasket and the windshield frame. Keep it lubricated with glass cleaner as you slide the rod around it for better results.
8
Use windshield-specific suction cups to remove the window. Attach large suction cups, which you can buy online, tightly to the glass. Pull up with even pressure while a friend pushes the windshield from the inside.
- It may be easier to have the person inside push the window out first, loosening the window, and then you pull with the suction cups.
- Have the person inside the car recline the seat back so he can get their feet onto the glass and use his legs to push.
- Do not stand on the hood or roof of the car — this will damage the body.
- The windshield may come out suddenly, so make sure you are steady and balanced and don't fall backwards.
9
Dispose of the windshield responsibly. Windshields should be disposed of in a landfill, not in your backyard. Check if your state offers windshield recycling programs, or if your local auto mechanic will dispose of it for you. ^{[4]
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- Tape the windshield up in a thick blanket while you transport it to prevent cuts on any broken edges. ^{[5]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Installing a New Windshield

1
Obtain a new windshield. Make sure you get one that fits the make, model, and year of your car.
- Use water and a brush to clean the new windshield of dust before you start working.
2
Remove the old urethane sealer from the frame. If there is still sealant or weather stripping attached to your car, remove it carefully with a knife and gloves and dispose of it.
3
Apply a urethane primer to the windshield and window socket. Using a paintbrush, add a thin amount of primer along the entire the inside edge of the window. You only need a strip about an inch wide. Then apply some primer to the windshield socket as well.
- Allow the primer to dry. Do not touch the primer or the oil in your fingers can prevent the sealer from sticking to the window or frame.
4
Install windshield clips. While they come in many different forms, they all attach by sliding onto the tabs on the top of the windshield socket and hammering snugly into place.
5
Use a caulking gun to apply urethane to the window socket. Apply the urethane evenly throughout the entire frame, working quickly to prevent it from drying.
- Using a V-shaped nozzle will help the urethane sits higher, forming a better seal with the windshield. ^{[6]
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6
Quickly put the windshield into place. Have the new windshield nearby — suction cups already attached — so that you can rapidly put it on the car before the urethane dries out. Push it gently but firmly into the window once you have it in place.
7
Use a knife or other long object to wipe off excess urethane. This is also a good time to push any bubbling urethane back in between the car and the windshield. You want to create a perfect seal to keep the windshield in place and hold out rain. ^{[7]
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8
Replace your weather sealant and any decorative molding. Pop in your car's molding (you may need to buy more) and push it securely into the frame, closing off any exposed areas between the windshield and the car. Reinstall your cowl panel and windshield wiper arms.
9
Wait several hours for the sealant to dry before you drive the car. You want the windshield to be firmly in place before you move the car so that it doesn't pop out during an accident or acceleration. Refer to the directions on the sealant to see how long you need to wait. ^{[8]
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Community Q&A

Question

How long does the tape have to remain in place after installation?

Community Answer

The tape is used to secure the windshield and keep it from sliding down or shifting side to side before the urethane cures. Most glass installation companies recommend 24 to 48 hours before removing the tape. If a fast curing urethane has been used, the tape could reasonably be removed after 6 hours.
Question

How do you recycle the windshield?

Joseph_85

Top Answerer

You should ask your local windshield repair expert.

Warnings

Always wear protective eye gear when installing a windshield.

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Do not apply urethane caulking too close to the edge of the window. This could cause the window to sag and the caulking to be visible from the outside.

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Skipping the application of the frit band activator puts the windshield at risk of slipping loose.

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Beware of your vehicle's interior when cleaning the window channel and installing the new windshield. Rust scrapings and water can damage the upholstery.

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