Check for irregularities. If you're at the windshield replacement or rear of the car, look along the car to see if there are small dents. These can be seen as distortions in the reflection. If the paint is not smooth in one place, then this could be a place where there has been some damage. Dents as large as a coin can be restored by a panel beater. Dents that are not thoroughly repaired are often filled with polyester resin or fibreglass paste. Tap the surface, or go along it with a magnet. Know whether the panel is made of steel, not plastic, fibreglass or aluminum. If there are places where the magnet will not adhere, then in all likelihood, the panel has been repaired. Ask the owner why the part has been repainted?
Insurance may cover for the partial cost of repair and replacement. So, the cost can be a little offset. Ideally, you should deal with service oriented car glass shop so they can give you a free estimate, lifetime warranty and insurance paperwork assistance.
Let's take a look at why their story doesn't add up. Say you pay $200-$600 for the windshield repair kit. After deducting their cost to manufacture the kit, they will be left with a profit of a certain amount. Now, out of that profit they have to pay advertising expenses and employee's.
Test your lights. If you notice an improvement-you are done! If it still appears dim or cloudy, you may want to use a special plastic cleaner and wax to give it a higher polish and sheen. These can be purchased at fix auto glass repair repair stores. When using them, be careful not to get any on the rest of the car as it could cause damage. Some masking tape around the headlight border can help protect it. You may want to use a rotary buffer to ensure the smoothest polish possible.
The curing time for the adhesive is one of the areas people pay the least attention to. The adhesive will take time for it to be completely cured. The minimum is a few hours but it is always best to let it stay there without the car moving for at least a day.
Sometimes the weather stripping or window channel is torn and falling apart. This can jam the window or prevent it from moving the way it should. Also look for objects that might be jammed into the window path. There may be too much friction between the glass and the channel. You can lubricate the channel with silicone spray.
Now, you should have a better understanding of the benefits of windshield repair as opposed to replacement. Remember to shop around and look for the best price with top quality work. And also remember to speak with your insurance agent about windshield damage coverage. It may cost you little to nothing and you will have your windshield looking good as new.