Arizona monsoon storms can arrive with blowing dust, strong wind, sudden rain and debris moving across the road. Even when a vehicle looks fine afterward, the glass may have new chips, scratches or seal problems that are easy to miss in a shaded driveway.
A quick inspection can catch damage before heat, vibration and daily driving make it worse. Check the entire vehicle, not only the center of the windshield.
Wait Until the Storm Has Passed
Do not stop in an unsafe location to inspect a windshield during a dust storm. The National Weather Service advises drivers caught in severe dust to leave the roadway when possible, stop, set the parking brake and turn off exterior lights.
Once conditions are safe, move the vehicle to a well lit area. Rinse loose dust from the glass before using the wipers. Dry blades moving across gritty glass can drag sand over the surface and leave fine scratches.
Inspect the Windshield From Several Angles
Look through the windshield from inside and outside the vehicle. Morning or late afternoon light often reveals damage that disappears under flat overhead light.
Check for fresh chips, short cracks and star shaped impact marks. Pay particular attention to the outer edge of the windshield. Damage near the edge can place stress on an area that is already connected to the vehicle body and may be harder to repair.
Run your eyes across the driver’s viewing area for a cloudy or sparkling appearance. A single storm may not create widespread pitting, but blowing sand can add to damage that has developed over years of Phoenix driving.
Check Wipers Before Using Them Again
Monsoon dust collects on the wiper blades and beneath the rubber edge. Lift each blade and wipe it with a damp cloth. Replace blades that are cracked, hardened or leaving streaks.
Turn on the washer system only after loose grit has been rinsed away. If the blades chatter, skip or leave curved scratches, stop using them until the cause is corrected. A worn blade can reduce visibility during the next downpour and grind debris against the windshield.
Look at Side Windows and Rear Glass
Wind can move small branches, gravel and loose objects into more than the windshield. Check door glass, quarter glass and the rear window for chips, scratches and broken edges.
Inspect the lower edge of each door window where it enters the door. Dirt and plant material can collect against the weather strip. If the window grinds, tilts or moves slowly, do not keep operating it. Debris in the channel or a damaged regulator can turn a small problem into broken glass.
Rear glass deserves attention after falling branches or flying debris. Unlike a laminated windshield, rear and side glass may break into many small pieces when damaged.
Watch for Water Inside the Vehicle
After heavy rain, check the dashboard, headliner, front carpet and areas around the rear window. A damp smell, water streak, fogging or wet upholstery may point to a seal problem, blocked drain or another source of water entry.
Do not assume every leak comes from the windshield. Door seals, roof accessories and body seams can also allow water inside. A professional inspection is the best way to identify the source before interior trim or electrical components are affected.
Photograph Damage and Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes
Take clear photographs of any new chip or crack. The pictures can help you track whether damage is growing and may be useful when speaking with an insurer.
Avoid directing very cold air at a hot damaged windshield immediately after the storm. Rapid temperature changes can add stress to glass that already has a weak point. Park in shade when practical and arrange an inspection promptly.
Schedule Auto Glass Service With Dave’s Metro Auto Glass
Dave’s Metro Auto Glass repairs and replaces windshields, side windows, rear glass and other vehicle glass throughout the Phoenix Valley. Free mobile service is available for cars, trucks, fleet vehicles and many specialty vehicles. If a monsoon storm left chips, scratches, broken glass or signs of a leak, call 602-352-0377 for a free quote and professional inspection.
References
Dave’s Metro Auto Glass: Automotive Glass Services
Dave’s Metro Auto Glass: Mobile Glass Replacement
National Weather Service Phoenix: Monsoon Safety
