Windshield Installation Procedure

If you want to do this job on your own here are the main steps you must perform to install your new windshield.

Get a Replacement
Make sure you get a new windshield that matches the one for your vehicle. You can obtain these from a wrecker’s yard for a low cost. Make sure the windshield doesn’t have any cracks or chips in it as this will defeat the purpose of installing a new windshield. Make sure you protect the windshield as you get it home with blankets and other shock absorbers to prevent damage.

Removing the Old Windshield
Take off the wipers and the rear mirror and anything else that’s attached to the glass on the old windshield.  Once you have done this you’ll want to tape off the vents so no broken glass can get inside if the windshield is shattered. You should do this anyways in case the old windshield breaks while you take it out.
Check the rubber surrounding the windshield and take this off if it’s cracked or feels hard as it will need to be changed. It will come off by putting a knife into the rubber and then slicing around the edges. If the rubber is good you can use a stick and work it through he rubber to the edges which will break the seal so you can use the rubber later on.

Taking Out the Glass
Push on the glass from the inside of the vehicle but do this slowly and don’t force anything. You should have someone on the other side to catch the glass as it comes off the vehicle.  If the gasket on the old windshield can be used again you can place this on the new windshield you have or just buy a new one. If the gasket is new let it warm up a bit before you place it on the windshield. The heavier side should run along the inner side of your glass.

Clean the Window Frame
Make sure the window frame and dashboard are free of dirt and debris before you put in the new windshield. Use a cord and some petroleum jelly and cost the outer groove in the jelly. Run the cord along the groove and have the ends of the cord stick out about two feet from the lower center of the gasket.

Install the Glass
From the outside of the car place the glass into the frame and tuck the cords ends into the interior. Go inside the car and pull the ends of the cord slowly out of the gasket to get the inner lip of the gasket in place. Have someone push on the rubber to keep it in place. Clean off the jelly from the outside of the window and reinstall the wipes along with the mirror.

This is a basic installation there can be more to installing your windshield. Always check with professionals before you install your type of windshield to ensure the job is done right.