How to Remove a Car Windshield

A car's windshield takes a beating from various debris encountered on the road. Chips can become cracks, which reduce visibility as well as the effectiveness of the safety features within the glass. Minor chips can be repaired without removing the windshield, but substantial damage requires replacement of the damaged windshield. The first step in the replacement process is, of course, to remove the existing windshield. Thankfully, doing so is a relatively straightforward task that can save you money by avoiding the cost of labor associated with professional removal.

Instructions

1

Remove the windshield wipers, if applicable. Many cars have windshield wipers that rest against the surface of the windshield when not in use. Other cars have windshield wipers that come to rest below the windshield in the cowl. Windshield wipers that rest against the windshield must be removed before the windshield can be removed. Windshield wiper removal tools are available at most auto parts retailers. The tip of the tool slides underneath the wiper and is then used to pry the wiper off of the wiper's post. Other wipers are attached to the vehicle with clips or screws, which must first be removed before the wiper can be pulled away from its post.

2

Remove the chrome trim that surrounds the windshield, if applicable. Chrome windshield trim typically appears on vehicles manufactured before the early 1980s. A trim removal tool is necessary here. The tip of the tool slides between the trim and the edges of the windshield. The tool is then pushed away from the windshield, which in turn pushes the trim away from the trim's retaining posts.

3

Use a razor blade to cut through the weatherstripping that surrounds the outside edges of the windshield. The weatherstripping must be cut away until the edges of the glass can be seen.

4

Push on one side of the windshield from the interior of the car until the windshield breaks free from only that side of the car. If the windshield will not break free, check to ensure that the weatherstripping has been cut enough to expose the entire circumference of the windshield.

5

Push the opposite side of the windshield from the interior of the car until the windshield breaks free.

6

Lift the windshield away from the vehicle to complete the removal process.