As your car ages, the wear and tear on the vehicle increases with the mileage. Scratches don’t just affect the paintwork; windscreens can get scratched too. How do you know whether your windscreen needs a bit of TLC?
As your main view of the road ahead, it’s important that you can see clearly so you can stay safe. Over time, dirt, grit and loose road chippings can cause damage to the glass, especially if caught under wiper blades.
Is it legal to drive with a scratched windscreen?
Driving with a cracked windscreen can be dangerous and would be an MOT fail if the damage is more than 40mm in size. In most cases, a windscreen that is simply scratched rather than cracked would pass an MOT, but it can still cause major problems.
Dirt and dust can adhere to the glass and sunlight or headlights can cause glare on the screen. According to the Highway Code, a windscreen should be maintained in good condition so it does not obscure the driver’s view of the driver.
The key is to make sure you have a clear view of the road ahead so nothing compromises visibility. If the lack of visibility due to poor windscreen maintenance causes an accident, you could be found responsible and charged with a serious driving offence.
How to deal with a scratched windscreen
- Regular cleaning of the external windscreen will help keep dirt out of any superficial scratches.
- Replace and maintain wiper blades regularly, clearing out leaves so that further damage is prevented.
- Polish out any surface-level or minor scratches using a polishing compound and buffing wool. Don’t forget to clean the compound from the surface with a soft cloth afterwards to prevent smears.
For deep scratches or if you’re unsure, it is always best to get your windscreen assessed by a professional windscreen repair service. We can tell you if it can be repaired easily or if it is time to replace your windshield.
