Can a Cracked Windshield Fail a Vehicle Inspection in Missouri?

A crack in your windshield may seem like an inconvenience you can deal with later, especially when it doesn’t appear to interfere with your view. But if your vehicle is due for an inspection in Missouri, you may be wondering whether that damaged glass could create a problem. There isn’t a simple rule that every windshield crack automatically has the same outcome. The location and severity of windshield damage matter, particularly when that damage affects a driver’s ability to see the road clearly. Because inspection requirements can also change, Missouri drivers should check current state requirements when preparing for an inspection.

Regardless of whether an inspection is approaching, a cracked windshield is worth paying attention to.

Why the Location of Windshield Damage Matters

Not all windshield damage affects a driver in the same way. A small blemish near an outer portion of the windshield is very different from a crack extending across the area directly in front of the driver. Damage in the driver’s field of vision can become particularly distracting. Cracks and chips may distort the view through the glass or create additional glare as sunlight and headlights hit the damaged area.

This is one reason the location of a crack is an important consideration when evaluating windshield damage.

A crack that isn’t causing a major visibility problem today may not remain the same size. Windshields encounter stress during normal vehicle use. Potholes, rough pavement, road vibrations, additional impacts, and temperature changes can all affect already damaged glass. A crack can spread farther across the windshield, potentially changing both the extent of the damage and its effect on visibility.

Waiting until an upcoming vehicle inspection to think about a crack may therefore mean waiting while the damage has an opportunity to become more extensive.

Visibility Should Be a Priority

Passing an inspection isn’t the only reason to take windshield damage seriously. Your windshield provides a large portion of your view of traffic, pedestrians, road signs, changing weather conditions, and other potential hazards. Damage that interferes with that view can make driving more difficult.

The effects can become especially noticeable in certain conditions. Sunlight may catch a chip or crack and create glare during the day, while headlights and streetlights can make damaged areas more distracting after dark. Rain and other poor-weather conditions can make clear visibility even more important.

If a crack is interfering with your ability to see clearly, that’s a reason to address the problem regardless of when your next inspection is scheduled.

Will a Windshield Chip Need Repair or Replacement?

Drivers sometimes assume any damaged windshield needs to be replaced, but that isn’t necessarily the case. Some windshield chips can be repaired. Whether repair is appropriate depends on characteristics such as the type, size, depth, and location of the damage. More extensive damage may require windshield replacement instead.

This is another reason to have windshield damage evaluated rather than trying to determine the solution based on appearance alone. What looks like a small problem to a driver may require professional assessment to determine the appropriate option.

Check Your Windshield Before an Inspection

If your vehicle has an inspection coming up, include the windshield when looking over its condition beforehand. Check the entire piece of glass rather than only the area directly in front of the driver’s seat. Issues could include: 

• Cracks that have grown since you first noticed them
• Chips with small cracks extending outward
• Damage that interferes with your view of the road
• Multiple damaged areas
• Damage near the outer edges of the windshield

Don’t Let an Inspection Be the Only Reason You Address a Crack

It’s understandable to start thinking about windshield damage when an inspection date is approaching. However, inspection compliance is only one consideration.

A crack can spread, become more distracting, and eventually limit the options available for addressing the damage. Having a damaged windshield evaluated earlier can help you understand whether windshield repair is possible or whether replacement is the more appropriate solution.

If you’ve noticed a chip or crack in your windshield, contact us to assess the damage.