How to Install Replacement Auto Windows

Shattered auto glass can be hazardous on the road, and the replacement of it can be a do-it-yourself job. Doing it yourself can keep you from spending extra money on professional repair services. First contact your vehicle's manufacturer to buy replacement glass best suited for your car's make and model. Then gather the necessary tools, including safety wear, before attempting to replace glass. Refer to your car's owner's manual before replacing the glass to get details on replacing your car's auto glass.

Instructions

1

Contact the manufacturer of your vehicle to order a replacement window that fits the car's specifications. You might also order the window through a specialty auto glass shop or through your make's local dealer.

2

Remove the door panel and anything connected to it. Use a large Phillips screwdriver to unscrew any screws which secure the arm rest, and factory speakers. Roll the window midway down before uninstalling the window crank (for easier removal if you want to remove intact glass). Be sure to wear safety glasses and utility gloves to protect yourself from broken glass.

3

Use a flat-head screwdriver or putty knife to pry up the fasteners, the button-like grommets which attach themselves to the panel and into the door holes. Pop the grommets from their holes by sliding the screwdriver underneath it. Be careful to not use too much force and destroy the grommet's delicate knobs.

4

Gently remove the weatherproofing shield --- the black adhesive strip that lines the frame --- by hand. Use an emergency auto window tool, as directed on product label, to safely and efficiently break the glass. If using a standard hammer, break the glass from inside the vehicle so that the shards fall out and onto the ground. If you coat the glass with a layer of duct tape, it can be removed more easily when shattered.

5

Remove glass shards from the frame, if any. Use a hand vacuum to remove glass pieces that may have fallen inside the panel through the window crank opening.

6

To remove glass that is still intact, simply slide the glass up from outside of the vehicle at its midway point with both hands. Carefully bend the glass as it nears the top of the window frame, pulling it completely out from its slot.

7

Remove the clip inside the window crank threshold (which is a large hole found inside the center of the door) by prying its bolt off with an adjustable wrench. Guide the replacement glass inside the slot of the auto door. Reattach the clip back inside the window crank hole, snugly securing its bolt with the adjustable wrench.

8

Replace the weatherproofing strip along the window pane. Reapply the fasteners along the door panel. Reattach the door panel and all of its components.