When A Small Issue Becomes A Huge Problem: Why You Should Repair That Windshield Crack Now

Tony Mers • September 29, 2018
repairing dents from hail

Summer is starting to peter out. Fall is on the way and winter is around the corner. What does that mean for your car?



Winter tires and a little extra time to get behind the wheel in the morning is all well and good, but there will be some days you're given an extra surprise. Repairing dents from hailand cracks left on your windshield are frustrating issues that'll leave you wondering whether to go the do-it-yourself route or visit an auto repair shop. Your best course of action when you notice a blemish on your car's surface is to visit the car body shop for a quick fix. It'll keep your car safe, your schedule sane and prevent any minor issues from becoming major problems.



Prepare for the winter a few months ahead by learning about the aftermath of harsh weather.

Vehicle Negligence Is No Joke

One of the biggest barriers standing between you and a safe drive is vehicle negligence. This term simply means failing to check on your car regularly, leaving everything from its engine to its breaks up to chance. A recent survey revealed as many as 75% of cars on the American road today were in need of maintenance today. If you haven't visited an auto body shop in a while, or have noticed your car feels a little 'off', you'll want to get it fixed now rather than later. Winter is a brutal time to be driving and you'll need everything in your arsenal to keep pace.

A Minor Crack Can Turn Into A Huge Problem

Do you see a small crack on your windshield? Don't ignore it in favor of saving a little money in the short-term. All it takes is a little extra pressure to turn that half-inch crack into a massive issue that puts your safety at risk. A recent study found over half of all windshield cracks and repairs being from a crack that grew nearly a foot long. The six basic types of windshield breaks include the combination break, the half moon, the surface pit, the star breaks, the bullseye and the crack.

Cars Can Become Badly Damaged From Hail

While hail can seem innocuous when you're inside, your car is dealing with something else entirely. Repairing dents from hail can be incredibly difficult, too, if you have a lot of work to buff out on the hood, your doors and the top of your car. Instead of spending hours and hours trying to reverse the damage, look into an auto body shop and ask about their special deals. Auto hail damage is a common issue that professionals are very familiar with and they can quickly make it a detail of the past at a smart cost.

A Little Extra Safety Goes A Long Way In Winter

Repairing dents from hail is also a way to prioritize your car's safety. You don't want any internal damage getting in the way of your driving experience, after all. There are over six million car accidents in the country every year, with the three most common causes of accidents including distracted driving, speeding and drunk driving. Vehicle negligence and bad weather, however, are among the most common causes of auto body damage. Let a professional go about repairing dents from hail and make sure it's done right.

A Visit To The Auto Body Shop Will Keep Your Car In The Clear


From repairing dents from hail to changing your oil, there are a lot of great reasons to invest in an auto repair shop. Safety is the name of the game, though a boost in your self-esteem also doesn't hurt. Over 70% of car crashes today result not just in auto body damage, but property damage. Your windshields also need to be in tip-top shape to hold up to the weather coming your way. Around 90% of stone breaks (such as stars or bullseyes) will never crack, but leave a terrible first impression to anyone viewing your car at a distance.



Don't risk it. Visit a car body shop this year and stay safe this winter.

A black SUV with open doors parked inside an auto service bay with hoses, bins, other cars, and over
September 15, 2026
Looking to repair or replace your car? Before deciding which option works for you, consider repair costs, your vehicle's value, the damage, and safety.
A person wearing gloves using a polisher on a gray car panel with yellow tape along the window edges
September 3, 2026
Car paint damage from accidents, vandalism, or weather may qualify for insurance coverage. Learn what factors can affect your claim and repair costs.
August 27, 2026
Foggy headlights can reduce visibility and affect your vehicle’s appearance. Find out what causes cloudy lenses and how professional repair can restore clarity.
Auto Body Shop vs Dealership: Cost, Quality, and Time
August 25, 2026
Compare an auto body shop vs. a dealership for cost, repair quality, and turnaround time to choose the right collision repair option for your vehicle.
A woman holding up a key fob in front of a black car that is parked indoors, with the front grille
August 24, 2026
Protect your car from door dings with nine practical parking tips that help prevent dents, preserve your vehicle's appearance, and reduce repair costs.
A man wiping the front of a black car with an orange cloth inside an automotive service area with eq
By River North Collision Repair August 10, 2026
Restore oxidized car paint before fading and surface damage worsen. Find the common causes and restoration options that protect your vehicle's finish.
Inside an automotive workshop, a technician is using a drill to remove the lug nuts on the tire of a
By River North Collision Repair July 28, 2026
Broken axle symptoms can affect vehicle safety and performance. Identify four common warning signs and learn when professional axle repair becomes necessary.
A close-up of a black car's side mirror and tinted window with bright reflections against a dark bac
By River North Collision Repair July 10, 2026
Get a clear overview of car door damage repair costs, common pricing factors, and when repairs or replacement make the most sense for your vehicle.
Diminished Value Claims in Illinois: What You Should Know
By River North Collision Repair June 29, 2026
Illinois drivers should know how diminished-value claims work after a collision and what steps can help them recover the loss of their vehicle's value.
How To Match Auto Paint for a Seamless Finish
May 20, 2026
Learn how professional auto body technicians match auto paint. They blend color matching and finishing techniques for a seamless, factory-quality repair.