Summer is the best time to hit the road, whether you’re cruising around the city or heading out on a long road trip. But nothing kills the vibe faster than a dirty, streaky windshield. Not only does it look bad, but it also messes with your visibility, which isn’t safe for anyone. At Auto Glass Ottawa, we know how important it is to keep your windshield clean and in top shape, especially during those hot, dusty summer months.
Here’s how to keep your windshield clean and clear all summer long—without breaking a sweat.
1. Clean Your Windshield Regularly
This one seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many drivers skip it. Summer means more bugs, more dust, and more debris flying around. All of that ends up splattered across your windshield. Get in the habit of cleaning it once a week or more if you’re driving a lot.
Use a quality glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth for the best results. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners because they can damage any tint on your windows and leave streaks. A mix of vinegar and water works great too if you’re into DIY solutions.
2. Top Off Your Windshield Washer Fluid
Don’t wait until your washer fluid is empty to refill it. In summer, you’ll go through it faster than you think. Bug splatter, pollen, and even bird droppings can dry up quickly and become hard to remove without washer fluid.
Make sure your washer jets are working properly too. If they’re clogged, use a pin to gently clear out any debris.
3. Replace Worn Wiper Blades
Your wiper blades put in serious work year-round, but summer heat can actually cause the rubber to crack or warp. If you notice streaking or hear that annoying squeaky sound when you use them, it’s time to switch them out.
Replacing wipers is quick and affordable, and it makes a huge difference in keeping your windshield spotless and your driving safer.
4. Park in the Shade When Possible
Parking in direct sunlight all the time doesn’t just heat up your car—it also speeds up wear and tear on your windshield. The sun’s UV rays can cause tiny cracks to expand, especially if your windshield already has a small chip.
To help avoid that, try to park in the shade or use a sunshade when you can. If you do notice a chip or crack, don’t wait too long to get it checked. We offer fast and reliable windshield repair in Ottawa services to help you avoid bigger issues down the road.
5. Don’t Ignore Small Chips or Cracks
Summer heat causes the glass to expand, which can turn a small chip into a long crack overnight. Even a minor ding can get worse quickly in hot weather. If you spot any damage, give us a call right away for an inspection.
Our team specializes in auto glass repair in Ottawa, and we’ll let you know if it’s something that can be repaired quickly or if it’s safer to go for a full windshield replacement in Ottawa. Either way, we’ll walk you through your options and help you make the best choice for your vehicle.
6. Clean the Inside Too
A clean windshield isn’t just about the outside. The inside can get just as dirty over time, especially with summer humidity. Dust, smoke, and even off-gassing from your dashboard materials can leave a film on the inside of the glass.
Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to wipe down the inside once a week. And here’s a pro tip: do this in the shade or during the evening to avoid streaks caused by the cleaner drying too fast in the heat.
7. Keep Your Dashboard Clean
This might sound unrelated, but a dusty dashboard reflects sunlight onto your windshield, which can create glare and reduce visibility. A quick wipe-down of your dashboard can go a long way toward keeping your view clear.
If you’re using any dashboard protectants, make sure they’re non-greasy. Oily products can evaporate in the summer heat and stick to your windshield from the inside.
We’re Here to Help All Summer
Keeping your windshield in top shape is easy with a little maintenance and a trusted team on your side. At Auto Glass Ottawa, we offer fast, affordable services from repairs to full windshield replacement in Ottawa locals can trust. Got a question or need help right away?
Give us a call at 613-234-9111 or send us a message and we’ll get back to you ASAP.