2018 Nissan Altima Windshield Replacement

So, you're dealing with a cracked or damaged windshield on your 2018 Nissan Altima? It's a frustrating situation, but you're not alone. Windshields take a beating from road debris, temperature changes, and sometimes, just plain bad luck. This article will walk you through what to consider regarding a 2018 Altima windshield replacement, covering everything from repair vs. replacement to cost factors and even a few DIY tips (though professional replacement is usually the best route!).

Assessing the Damage: Repair or Replacement?

The first thing to figure out is whether you can repair the windshield or if a full replacement is necessary. Several factors come into play here:

Size and Location of the Damage:

This is the most crucial factor. Here's a general guideline:

Repairable: Generally, chips smaller than a quarter and cracks shorter than three inches can often be repaired, especially if they are not in the driver's direct line of sight.
Replacement Required: Cracks longer than three inches, chips larger than a quarter, multiple cracks, or damage located directly in the driver's line of sight almost always necessitate a full replacement. Also, damage near the edge of the windshield tends to spread quickly and warrants replacement.

Type of Damage:

The kind of damage also matters. Common types include:

Chips: Small pieces of glass missing, often caused by small rocks or pebbles.
Cracks: Lines running through the glass. These can be straight, branched (like a star), or circular (bullseye).
Bullseyes: Circular impact points.
Stars: Cracks radiating outward from a central point of impact.
Combination Breaks: A combination of different damage types.

Star breaks and combination breaks, especially if large, usually require replacement. Even a small bullseye directly in the driver's field of vision can be a safety hazard because it distorts your view.

Time Since Damage Occurred:

The longer you wait to repair a chip or crack, the more likely it is to spread. Dirt and debris can get into the damage, making a successful repair more difficult and potentially requiring replacement. If you have a chip or crack, address it as soon as possible.

DIY Repair vs. Professional Replacement:

While DIY windshield repair kits are available, they are best suited for very small chips and cracks and require a certain level of skill to achieve satisfactory results. We strongly recommend professional windshield replacement for several reasons:

Safety: The windshield is a crucial structural component of your 2018 Altima. It provides support for the roof in a rollover accident and helps deploy the airbags correctly. Improper installation can compromise these safety features.
Proper Adhesion: Professionals use specialized adhesives and techniques to ensure the windshield is properly bonded to the vehicle frame, creating a watertight seal and structural integrity.
Calibration: Many newer vehicles, including the 2018 Altima, have Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) that rely on sensors mounted on the windshield (e.g., lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking). After windshield replacement, these systems often require recalibration to function correctly. Only trained technicians with specialized equipment can perform this calibration. Improper calibration can lead to ADAS malfunctions and potentially dangerous situations.
Warranty: Professional windshield replacements typically come with a warranty on both the glass and the installation.

While saving money on a DIY repair might seem appealing, the risks to your safety and the potential for further damage make professional replacement the wiser choice.

The Windshield Replacement Process: What to Expect

Here's a general overview of what happens during a professional windshield replacement for your 2018 Nissan Altima:

Inspection: The technician will thoroughly inspect the damage to confirm that replacement is necessary.
Preparation: The area around the windshield will be protected with drop cloths and masking tape to prevent damage to the paint and interior.
Removal: The old windshield is carefully removed using specialized tools, cutting through the adhesive.
Cleaning and Priming: The frame is cleaned and prepared for the new windshield. A primer is applied to ensure proper adhesion.
Adhesive Application: A high-quality urethane adhesive is applied evenly around the frame.
Installation: The new windshield is carefully placed into position and secured.
Curing: The adhesive needs time to cure properly. You'll typically be advised to avoid driving the vehicle for a few hours to allow the adhesive to set. The technician will advise on the specific curing time.
ADAS Calibration (if applicable): If your Altima has ADAS features relying on windshield-mounted sensors, the system will be recalibrated.
Final Inspection: The technician will inspect the installation to ensure a proper seal and proper operation of any related features (e.g., wipers, defroster).

Factors Affecting Windshield Replacement Cost:

The cost of replacing your 2018 Nissan Altima windshield can vary depending on several factors:

Glass Type: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass, which is made by the same manufacturer that supplied the original windshield, is generally more expensive than aftermarket glass. Aftermarket glass can be a perfectly acceptable option, but it's important to choose a reputable brand.
Features: Windshields with special features, such as rain sensors, heated elements, or ADAS sensor mounts, will cost more.
ADAS Calibration: If ADAS calibration is required, this will add to the overall cost. The cost of calibration can range from $150 to $500 or more depending on the complexity of the system.
Labor Costs: Labor rates vary depending on the location and the repair shop.

Approximate Cost Range: A typical windshield replacement for a 2018 Nissan Altima, including labor, can range from $300 to $800 or more. This is just an estimate, and it's best to get a quote from a reputable auto glass shop to get an accurate price. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs, including the price of the glass, labor, and any ADAS calibration fees.

Finding a Reputable Auto Glass Shop:

Choosing the right auto glass shop is crucial for a safe and reliable windshield replacement. Here are some tips:

Read Reviews: Check online reviews on sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau to see what other customers have to say about their experiences.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or your mechanic for recommendations.
Check for Certifications: Look for shops that employ technicians certified by organizations like the National Glass Association (NGA).
Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several shops to get quotes and compare prices. Be sure to ask about the type of glass they use, their warranty, and whether they offer ADAS calibration services.
Verify Insurance Coverage: Check with your insurance company to see if your windshield replacement is covered under your policy. Many policies have a deductible for comprehensive coverage, which includes windshield damage.

Tools (If you're determined to try a DIY repair):

(Disclaimer: We highly recommend professional replacement!) If you are considering a DIY repair for a very small chip, here's what you might need:

Windshield Repair Kit: These kits typically include a resin injector, resin, curing strips, and instructions.
Razor Blade: For cleaning the glass surface.
Heat Gun or Hair Dryer: To warm the glass slightly (be careful not to overheat it).
Clean Cloth: For wiping away excess resin.
Safety Glasses and Gloves: To protect your eyes and hands.

Important Note: Always follow the instructions provided with the windshield repair kit carefully. DIY repairs are not a guaranteed fix and may not prevent the damage from spreading.

Preventing Future Windshield Damage:

While you can't completely eliminate the risk of windshield damage, here are some tips to minimize it:

Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Give yourself plenty of space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to reduce the chance of being hit by flying debris.
Avoid Driving on Gravel Roads: If possible, avoid driving on gravel roads, as these are common sources of windshield damage.
Park in a Garage or Covered Area: This can protect your windshield from extreme temperatures and falling debris.
Inspect Your Windshield Regularly: Look for small chips or cracks and repair them promptly before they spread.

Dealing with a damaged windshield is never fun, but hopefully, this information has given you a better understanding of the process and what to consider when replacing the windshield on your 2018 Nissan Altima. Remember, your safety is paramount, so prioritize professional replacement for optimal results.