Can a Windshield Really Shatter from Heat? Myth-busting with Apollo Glass
Summers in Minnesota may be short, but they can get surprisingly hot, and that leads to plenty of questions (and myths) about what the heat can do to your car, especially your windshield. At Apollo Glass, we hear it all the time:
“Can my windshield really shatter from the heat?”
“Is it dangerous to blast the A/C on hot glass?”
“Will leaving a chip alone in summer make it worse?”
Let’s decide what’s true and what’s not as we bust some auto glass myths:
Myth #1: A Windshield Can Explode Just From Summer Heat
The truth: It’s very rare for a windshield to suddenly shatter just from heat. Auto glass is made from laminated safety glass,which consists of two layers of glass bonded with a strong inner layer to hold it together – even when broken.
However, extreme heat combined with existing damage (like a chip or crack) can cause problems. A tiny chip might spread quickly on a 95° day, especially if you’re cranking the A/C inside. The rapid temperature change creates stress across the glass, which can turn a small chip into a big crack.
Pro Tip: If you’ve got a chip, don’t wait. Windshield repair is fast, affordable, and often covered by insurance.
Myth #2: Rolling Down the Windows Helps Protect the Glass
The truth: Rolling down your windows can help reduce cabin pressure and heat buildup, but it doesn’t directly protect your windshield from cracking. If your auto glass already has damage, airflow won’t stop a crack from spreading, only a repair or replacement will.
Pro Tip: Protect your auto glass by being proactive. Real protection comes from:
- Parking in shade or in a garage
- Using windshield sunshades
- Repairing chips before they become summer casualties
Myth #3: Blasting Cold A/C on a Hot Windshield Can Cause it to Crack
The truth: This is one myth that’s partially true! While blasting cold air on a hot windshield won’t usually cause instant cracking, sudden temperature swings can stress already weakened glass. If you’ve got a chip or crack, it’s more likely to spread when exposed to extreme temperature changes, like going from 100° outside to 65° inside in seconds.
Pro Tip: Let your car cool gradually by opening the windows and starting your A/C low. Avoid directing full-force air at the glass when it’s scorching hot.
Myth #4: It’s Fine to Leave a Small Crack Until Fall
The truth: Minnesota’s summer heat can accelerate the damage, and that tiny crack might spider out before Labor Day. The combination of thermal expansion, vibration from driving, and weather shifts makes summer a risky time to put off repairs.
Remember, a damaged windshield doesn’t just impact visibility, it also compromises vehicle safety and structural integrity, especially in the event of a collision or rollover.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait! Make sure your ADAS system stays intact and your car’s safety features aren’t compromised by windshield damage. Repair minor damage before it becomes major.
How to Protect Your Windshield in the Minnesota Heat
Summer heat might not cause spontaneous explosions, but it’s no friend to damaged glass. Here’s how to keep your windshield in top shape this season:
Repair chips ASAP (we offer same day service!)
Park in shaded areas whenever possible
Use a sunshade to reduce interior heat buildup
Avoid slamming doors with windows fully closed (this increases pressure)
Contact Apollo Glass if you’re unsure about a chip or crack
Apollo Glass Has You Covered
At Apollo Glass, we specialize in auto glass repair and replacement for all makes and models. We also offer ADAS recalibration to ensure your safety systems continue working as they should after any glass replacement. We’ll work with your insurance company and even come to you!
Whether you’re dealing with a pesky chip or a full-blown crack, let our experienced team get your glass road-ready, before summer makes it worse. Contact Apollo Glass today for fast, friendly service and answers to all your auto glass questions.
