There’s nothing like driving on a beautiful sunny day—except when you are temporarily blinded by glare from your windshield. Windshield glare can reduce your field of vision, slow response time, and put you, your passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians at risk.
Luckily, there are a few ways to reduce sun glare that can keep you safe out on the road.
How to Reduce Windshield Glare
To minimize windshield glare:
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Clean your windshield regularly: Glare can be caused by sunlight hitting dirt, oil, soap residue, dried-on washer fluid, and general debris that have accumulated on your windshield. By cleaning it regularly, you can reduce the buildup that contributes to windshield glare.
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Fix windshield cracks and scratches: Imperfections in your windshield can reflect and bend sunlight, which can worsen glare. Imperfections like a cracked windshield can also affect the structural integrity of your windshield, making it more vulnerable in the event of an accident.
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Use your sun visor: That flap on the interior of your car can work wonders! In addition to keeping a pair of sunglasses in your car or truck, using the sun visor to reduce sun glare while driving is a quick and easy fix. Just flip it down and adjust it to shade your eyes.
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Refill your wiper fluid: Using wiper fluid is a great way to remove dirt and debris when glare is at its worst. Make a point of keeping the fluid reservoir full and consider keeping a jug of it in your vehicle in case you need a refill on the road.
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Replace your windshield wipers: Windshield wipers that are the correct style and size for your vehicle make a big difference in keeping your windshield clear. Replace your wipers whenever you notice them sticking, skipping, or leaving behind streaks.
Related Topic: Now Is the Time to Replace Your Windshield Wipers
I Still Can’t See Through My Windshield in Sunny Weather. Now What?
If you live in a sunny climate, you may be asking, “is there an anti-glare windshield available?” Unfortunately, anti-glare windshields are not available, but for drivers in sunny climates, investing in a sun strip can help minimize some glare. This and keeping your windshield clean should help reduce glare. If you do decide to add a sun strip to your windshield, make sure it’s installed by a licensed professional, so you don’t void your vehicle’s windshield warranty or affect the calibration of ADAS sensors.
Related Topic: How to Remove Sap from a Windshield
What About Window Tinting?
Of course, a more stylish way to reduce glare is to add window tinting. After-market film reduces harsh glare and protects your vehicle’s interior from harmful sun rays (and prying eyes) when parked. Window tinting is only applied to side windows but can reduce sunlight that can have an impact on your driving. However, it will not reduce windshield glare. In addition, many states have specific laws related to window tinting. So, make sure you know the regulations for your state and the specific tinting regulations that apply.
A sun strip is one type of window tint designed for use on windshields. It covers a small area at the top of the windshield that is not in direct line with the driver’s view. A sun stripe is subtle enough to reduce some glare without impairing the driver’s vision.
Drive Safely in Any Weather, with Glass Doctor
Maintaining your windshield to reduce glare is one thing you can do to ensure you arrive at your destination safely and stay safe on the road. Taking time to clean your windshield, address cracks, and consider window tinting to help reduce glare and improve your visibility when driving during sunny weather.
For these and other automotive glass needs, you can trust the technicians at your local Glass Doctor. Give us a call at (833) 974-0209 or schedule an appointment online today.