Being a car owner requires not only good driving skills but also knowledge of various repair jobs. Learning how to replace a car window is one of those tasks. A broken side window can be the result of an accident or an attempted theft of your car. Replacing car window glass is not an easy task, especially for novice drivers. However, there is no need to panic. You can handle this problem yourself with the right tips and tools.
Preparing to Replace a Broken Car Window
To replace a car window, you must prepare the car for repair. This includes cleaning the car interior, removing any remaining window shards, and gathering the necessary tools.
Find out how severe the damage is inside and outside the car. Check how much glass is broken on both sides of the door. Pay attention to any debris, such as dirt or stones, as these can become lodged between the glass shards. If both sides of the door are severely damaged, it may be time to call your insurance company.
Next, you’ll need to clean up the shards. Cleaning broken tempered glass can be challenging. Make sure there are no sharp objects left on the ground and sweep them up with a broom or vacuum cleaner. Once this is done, the final step is to check for any remaining debris anywhere near the interior or exterior surface of the vehicle’s interior.
Wear safety glasses and gloves to remove any shards of broken glass that may remain between the door frame. Once all visible glass has been removed, take a damp cloth and wipe it on both sides. The safest way is to use a cleaning gel, as it can catch even the tiniest fractions of glass.
Changing a Car Window
Changing a passenger window can be intimidating and confusing. So, let’s break this process down into steps that will make the job easier for you.
Tools Needed to Replace Car Windows
- Torx Socket Set
- Screwdrivers
- Trim Removal Tool
- Gloves
- Safety Goggles
Remove the Inner Door Panel
The first steps in replacing a car window is to remove the inner door panel and take out all the hardware that holds the broken pieces in place. There should be nuts and bolts behind the trim. Loosen them to remove the hardware. Then you need to remove the remaining window pieces and insert the new window, but there is some work to do before installing the new window.
The door panel mechanism may differ between cars. It is best to check the vehicle service manual to get a clearer idea. If it is a power window, disconnect the plugs supplying power to the window before removing the glass.
Remove the remaining window pieces
With the car’s inner door panel removed, gently pry it back and you should see the inner door fasteners. Lower or raise the height adjustment mechanism to align with the bolts or screws holding the remaining glass in place.
If it is a power window, connect the switches on the door. Turn the ignition on and raise or lower the window to align the bolts and access holes. Remove the bottom seal to make room for the window panel.
Install the New Window
Placing the new window in the slot can be tricky, especially if you are inexperienced. Start with the shorter side and position it at a 90 degree angle. Then carefully insert the long side into the designated slot. After a few tries, it should fit correctly.
The next step is to reinstall everything in reverse order: all the bolts, screws, and the glass panel. Move the window up and down a couple of times to make sure it works smoothly. Reinstall the door panel and other removed parts.
Remember, do not use force at any stage of the car window replacement. The glass can break if handled carelessly. If it is difficult to go into the slot, it is because you are doing something wrong. Just double check everything. If necessary, seek help from a specialist or the services of the nearest auto repair shop, and if you have an expensive car model, also contact an experienced mechanic for repairs.
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Car service WEBER-AUTO
194044, St. Petersburg
Neyshlotsky lane, house 5, building 3
District: Vyborgsky
Metro: Vyborgskaya – 800 m.
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Seven days a week, from 9:00 to 21:00.
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sto@veberauto.ru
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8 (812) 321-00-00
