How to Remove a Rubber Gasket Windshield

The more often a vehicle is used, the greater the likelihood of the windshield becoming chipped from road debris. Windshield chips, if left unattended, can eventually become cracks, which can greatly reduce the safety features of windshields. In addition, operating a motor vehicle on a public surface with a cracked windshield is illegal. Even if the windshield is free from cracks, time can erode the rubber gasket surface which surrounds the windshield, causing water to leak into the interior of the vehicle.

Instructions

1

Remove the trim molding which surrounds the exterior of the windshield, if your car is so equipped. Use a windshield-molding tool, available at most auto parts stores, to remove the molding. The tool slides between the rubber gasket and the molding and will remove the molding when the tool is pushed into it.

2

Remove the windshield-wiper blades and arms with a removal tool if the vehicle's wiper blades rest on the face of the windshield when not in use. The removal tool is available at auto supply stores. The tool has a fork at the tip which slides under the windshield-wiper arms and is used to pry them free.

3

Cut the entire rubber gasket with a razor blade along the length of the gasket which surrounds the outside of the windshield. When the gasket has been cut, you will be able to see the edges of the windshield.

4

Push the windshield towards the front of the vehicle from inside the vehicle. The windshield will free itself and can then be lifted away.