Safety You Can Trust

That small crack in your windshield isn’t just an eyesore – it’s a ticking time bomb. Every bump in the road, temperature change, or day of delay makes it more likely to spread across your entire windshield, potentially compromising your vehicle’s structural integrity and your family’s safety. What might appear as a minor inconvenience today could rapidly evolve into a major safety hazard tomorrow, especially in Fargo-Moorhead’s challenging climate conditions.

Why That Crack Can’t Wait Another Day

You’ve seen it happen: what starts as a tiny chip from road debris quickly transforms into a sprawling crack that threatens your visibility and safety. When your windshield is compromised:

• Your vehicle’s structural integrity is at risk during accidents

Modern vehicles rely on windshields as crucial structural components. In rollover accidents, your windshield provides up to 50% of the cabin’s structural support. A compromised windshield may collapse under pressure, significantly increasing the risk of serious injury or fatality. Even in minor collisions, a weakened windshield fails to distribute impact forces properly throughout the vehicle frame.

• Airbag deployment could be compromised in a collision

Few drivers realize that proper airbag function depends heavily on windshield integrity. During deployment, passenger-side airbags often use the windshield as a backstop. With a weakened or improperly installed windshield, airbags may deploy ineffectively or cause additional injuries. This critical safety system requires a properly installed, undamaged windshield to function as designed.

• Your visibility becomes dangerously impaired, especially at night or in rain

Cracks create light refraction and distortion that significantly impairs visibility. During nighttime driving, oncoming headlights can create dangerous glare when passing through damaged glass. In rainy conditions, water can pool differently around cracks, creating unpredictable visual distortions. These visibility issues develop gradually, often causing drivers to unconsciously compensate without realizing the danger.

• The crack will continue spreading with every temperature change and road vibration

Fargo-Moorhead’s extreme seasonal temperature fluctuations create constant expansion and contraction in glass. This thermal stress causes even microscopic cracks to expand rapidly. Additionally, road vibrations from everyday driving force these cracks to propagate across your windshield. What begins as a barely noticeable chip on Monday could become a full-width crack by Friday under these conditions.

• You could face a costly ticket for driving with an unsafe vehicle

Local law enforcement takes windshield damage seriously. Officers can issue citations for obstructed visibility if cracks interfere with your view of the road. These citations often carry substantial fines and may require proof of repair before dismissal. Some insurance companies may also increase premiums for drivers with safety-related citations.

That small crack might seem harmless today, but Fargo-Moorhead’s extreme temperature fluctuations and road conditions make it almost certain to worsen rapidly. The question isn’t if your windshield will need replacement – it’s when and by whom.

The Matt’s Automotive Difference: Not All Windshield Replacements Are Created Equal

When it comes to something as critical as your windshield – the component that provides nearly 50% of your vehicle’s structural integrity in a rollover accident – quality matters. At Matt’s Automotive Service Center, we deliver professional windshield replacement that prioritizes your safety:

• OEM-quality glass that meets or exceeds manufacturer specifications

We source windshields manufactured to the exact specifications of your vehicle’s original equipment. These precision-crafted components maintain proper thickness, curvature, and light transmission properties. Unlike aftermarket alternatives that may save a few dollars but compromise fit and clarity, our OEM-quality glass ensures optimal performance in all driving conditions and maintains your vehicle’s designed safety characteristics.

• Proper adhesives and installation techniques that ensure perfect sealing

Windshield installation requires specialized urethane adhesives that create both a watertight seal and structural bond. Our technicians use automotive-grade adhesives applied with precision equipment to ensure uniform coverage and proper curing. This meticulous approach prevents water leaks, wind noise, and premature failure during accidents – issues commonly associated with improper installation methods.

• Experienced technicians who understand the intricacies of modern vehicles

Today’s vehicles integrate windshields with numerous advanced systems, including rain sensors, heating elements, heads-up displays, and camera systems for driver assistance features. Our technicians receive continuous training on proper handling and installation procedures for these complex components. Their expertise ensures all integrated systems function correctly after replacement.

• Comprehensive warranty protection for your peace of mind

Every windshield replacement we perform is backed by thorough protection that covers both materials and workmanship. This commitment reflects our confidence in our installation quality and materials.

• Insurance claim assistance to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses

Navigating insurance claims can be confusing and time-consuming. Our experienced staff works directly with all major insurance providers to verify coverage, process claims, and minimize your paperwork burden. We’ll explain your policy coverage clearly and handle the administrative aspects so you can focus on getting back on the road safely.

Unlike chain stores or general repair shops that treat windshield replacement as a side business, our specialized technicians understand that proper installation is about more than just fitting glass – it’s about preserving your vehicle’s safety systems and structural integrity.

The Hidden Dangers of Delaying Windshield Replacement

Many Fargo-Moorhead drivers underestimate the risks of postponing windshield replacement. Consider what’s really at stake:

• Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) may malfunction with improper glass installation

Modern vehicles rely on windshield-mounted cameras and sensors for features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control. Improper windshield replacement can misalign these systems, causing them to malfunction when you need them most. Our technicians ensure proper calibration of all ADAS components after installation, maintaining these critical safety features.

• Your vehicle’s roof strength depends on a properly installed windshield

In rollover accidents, your windshield provides crucial support that prevents roof collapse. Federal safety standards for roof crush resistance assume an intact, properly installed windshield. Without this support, your vehicle’s roof may deform excessively during a rollover, potentially causing catastrophic injuries to occupants.

• Insurance may deny claims if an accident involves a previously damaged windshield

Insurance companies can deny accident claims if they determine that pre-existing windshield damage contributed to injuries or property damage. This potential coverage denial represents a significant financial risk that far outweighs the cost of timely windshield replacement.

• Cold Fargo winters and hot summers accelerate crack propagation

Our region’s extreme seasonal temperature variations create ideal conditions for rapid crack expansion. Winter temperatures can plunge below -30°F, while summer days often exceed 90°F. This 120-degree range causes glass to expand and contract dramatically, forcing even minor cracks to spread quickly across your entire windshield.

• DIY repair kits often fail and may void warranty coverage on newer vehicles

Consumer-grade windshield repair kits lack the professional-grade materials and precision application methods needed for lasting repairs. These temporary fixes often fail within weeks and can actually complicate professional repair later. For newer vehicles, DIY repairs may also void manufacturer warranty coverage for related components.

Our technicians regularly see the consequences when drivers attempt temporary fixes or choose budget providers who cut corners. The difference becomes painfully clear during accidents, when properly installed windshields save lives.

Experience Stress-Free Windshield Replacement

Imagine having your windshield replaced without the typical headaches:

• Same-day service for most vehicle makes and models
• Direct insurance billing – we handle the paperwork for you
• Mobile service available throughout the Fargo-Moorhead area
• Complimentary vehicle inspection to identify any other safety concerns
• Lifetime warranty against leaks and defects

Our streamlined process eliminates the confusion, delays, and quality concerns that make windshield replacement such a dreaded task for many drivers. From the moment you contact us, you’ll experience the professionalism that has made Matt’s Automotive Service Center the trusted choice for Fargo-Moorhead drivers.