It was a flying rock, drastic temperature shock, or accident, and it has left your car with the slightest crack across the windshield. You may look at this seemingly miniscule damage and decide that, hey, that's really something that you can live with and skip repairs or replacement. Unfortunately, choosing not to replace or repair a car windshield that has minimal damage is never a good idea. In fact, ignoring the problem could just make things worse in the long run. Take a look at these three big reasons to go ahead and repair or replace a slightly damaged car windshield. 

Small damages can compromise the strength of your windshield. 

Automobile engineers have worked for years to develop a windshield that is as safe as possible to ensure that the glass is as resilient. However, when the glass is compromised by a small fracture, it is no longer as safe and resilient. If you were to be involved in an accident with a windshield that has already sustained some form of damage, there is a greater likelihood that the windshield will break or bust on impact. 

Small damages can spread out unexpectedly. 

Imagine you are heading down the interstate at a high rate of speed, the small windshield damage not being an issue, and then suddenly, the crack expands in several directions, obstructing your field of vision. Not only is this a possibility, but it is incredibly dangerous. Once a windshield is damaged, the damage can spread unexpectedly. While the scenario given is unlikely, it could be possible, especially if you hit a bump or a pothole. Most of the time, damages will grow larger over several hours or even several days or weeks. 

Small damages can lessen the value of your car.

It may only be a small problem in your eyes, but if you decide to sell your car to an individual, just a small crack or break in the windshield can make the car look even less desirable. Plus, if you choose to trade your vehicle in on a newer model, the dealership will likely figure the value as less due to the damage. Therefore, it is always a better idea to make sure the windshield is flawless before you decide to sell it or trade it in. 

The bottom line is, it is a much better idea to go ahead and replace or repair that broken windshield than to just let it ride, Contact a windshield repair and replacement service center for more information. A company like Coats Auto Body and Paint may be a good place to start.