Technological advances in the car industry have led to convenient features such as automatic windshield wipers and lane departure warning systems. These types of features are called advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and are meant to make driving safer, easier, and more enjoyable. Unfortunately, these features can only work effectively and as they should when the windshield is in excellent condition. Any flaws in the windshield such as chips and cracks can cause these systems to malfunction.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Vs. Windshield Flaws
Here are two of the most popular types of advanced driver assistance systems and how windshield flaws can interfere with their functionality.
Automatic Windshield Wipers
Sensors located near the windshield detect rain, moisture, and snow and turn the windshield wipers on at the rate of speed and frequency necessary to wipe the water or snow away. At least that's the way it's supposed to work. Flaws in the windshield will interfere with the sensor and, therefore, cause the automatic windshield wipers to go awry even though the sensor and wiper mechanisms are not in disrepair. In addition to detecting rain, moisture, and snow, the sensor can also detect cracks and chips, even ones that are difficult for you to see with your naked eye. When there is a crack or a chip in your windshield, your automatic windshield wiper will likely turn on when there's obviously no need for them to work.
Lane Departure Warning System
A lane departure warning system uses a camera that is located in between the glass and the rearview mirror. The camera is designed to detect the lane lines and alert the driver when the vehicle crosses the lines when the driver doesn't use the turn signals. As with the automatic windshield wipers, any flaws in the windshield may interfere with what the camera sees and, therefore, will likely cause the lane departure warning system to not function properly. Depending on the size and location of a crack, the camera may place the lane line in a different location than it really is and sounding the warning system that you crossed the line when you really didn't.
Chips and Cracks in the Glass May Be Difficult to See
You'll need to closely inspect your windshield for chips and cracks, as well as any other inconsistencies in the surface of the glass. Sometimes, chips and cracks can only be seen when you're at certain angles. However, some may not be seen by the human eye at all yet detected by advanced sensors and cameras. Therefore, it's a good idea to have your windshield inspected by an auto glass specialist to determine whether or not there are any discrepancies in the glass that are interfering with the sensor for your automatic windshield wiper system or the camera for your lane departure warning system.
Repairs Should Only Be Done By a Professional
If a chip or crack is found, it should be repaired by a professional. While there are do-it-yourself kits available in most auto goods stores, the delicate nature of your automatic windshield wiper sensor system means this is not a job to try on your own or you may not remedy the problems with the wipers turning on when they shouldn't turn on. When you call to schedule an appointment with an auto glass repair company, be sure to inform them that your vehicle has automatic windshield wipers and any other advanced driver assistance systems your vehicle may be equipped with. The reason for this is that the auto glass repair service may need to calibrate the windshield to ensure the advanced features will work properly after repairs are made. If not, you may want to consider replacing the windshield instead. To learn more, contact an auto glass company.
Where would we be as humans if it were not for the discovery of glass? Our homes would certainly have a lot less light. Perhaps we'd be drinking out of wood or clay pots, and maybe instead of looking in glass mirrors, we'd be trying to see our reflection in wobbly sheets of metal. Surely we would get along because humans are smart and able to innovate. But would life be as easy? Probably not!
We seek to honor the use of glass, and we do that by sharing articles about this material. Check them out if you get a chance; they're right here on this site.