How to Remove and Install a Windshield

If the windshield on your car is cracked or leaking, you can install a new one yourself if you don't have the money to go to a licensed mechanic. Using a few simple tools and some patience, you can remove and install a new windshield at home in a few hours. This is a project that will require a partner to help you complete it.

Instructions

1

Remove the outer trim. Using a windshield trim-removal tool, carefully slide the blade between the trim and the windshield seal. Slide the blade of the tool all the way around the windshield and carefully remove the trim piece. Some windshields have trim clips that need to be popped up, while others have the trim fit right into the seal.

2

Cut the seal with a carpet knife. Push the blade of the carpet knife all the way into the seal so that the knife blade bottoms out. Slowly cut all the way around the windshield until you have completely cut the seal.

3

Loosen the windshield from the frame. Using a plastic stick, gently release the windshield from the frame of the car. Work the stick all the way around the windshield. Use plastic tools here to prevent scratching.

4

Push the glass out. From inside the car, push on the windshield with the palm of your hand to release it completely from the frame.

5

Clean the debris from the windshield frame. Using the carpet knife as a scraper, remove all of the old sealant from the frame to provide a clean work surface for the new windshield.

6

Set the new windshield in the frame. Before setting the windshield, place a nylon rope in the channel around the entire windshield, with the two ends meeting in the middle at the bottom of the windshield. Set the windshield and use the rope to help you guide it into place. Once in place, you can remove the rope by pulling it out from one end.

7

Seal the windshield. Insert a tube of butyl rubber windshield sealant into a caulk gun and seal the window all the way around the frame without any breaks in the seal. Once the seal has dried overnight, replace the trim.