6 Best Car Windshield Repair Kits for Various Types of Windshield Damage

A small crack or a chip on the windshield is every car owner’s nightmare. No matter how small the chip, it will eventually lead to a full-blown crack if left untreated. Driving with a cracked windshield is not only dangerous, but you also run the risk of getting a ticket. So, it is best to take immediate action once any sign of crack is visible.

Cracks of more than an inch usually require total windshield replacement, which is very costly. But if it is only a minor chip, less than an inch, you can do away with the expensive replacement. A DIY (do-it-yourself) car windshield repair kit can offer a solution by allowing you to fix the cracks for a small price.

There are a lot of different repair kits on the market, and while there is no perfect product that fits all purposes, if you know what the difference is, you can decide which one is the best for you. 

In this article, you will find my recommendations of the top six kits, and explanations when to use which. In a hurry? My top six kits are: 

Top Car Windshield Repair Kits 2022

  1. Versachem Windshield Repair Kit
  2. Rain X Windshield Repair Kit
  3. Blue Star Windshield Repair Kit
  4. Permatex Windshield Repair Kit
  5. 3M Windshield Repair Kit
  6. American Mini Windshield Repair Kit

I’ve also made a table of contents below, so you can jump to specific sections of interest or to the review you want to see:

Keep in mind, these windshield repair kits are not miracle solutions for all types of cracks. There are certain damages beyond the scope of these DIY windshield crack repair kits, for which a glass replacement is the only solution. 

Thus, before considering using a DIY cracked glass repair kit to fix the windshield damage, it would be best to understand the different types of glass damages.

Types of Windshield Damage

Types of Windshield Damage

Not all windshield cracks are the same. Here is a run down of the most common types of damage. And for a little more information take a look at our article on windshield crack types.

The Bullseye

A bullseye is a type of windshield damage that occurs due to a flying rock causing an impact to the glass, resulting in a crack resembling a spider web or a dart board’s bullseye. The bullseye is a common damage to the windshield that is easily repairable, depending on the extent and location.

While a bullseye crack is generally small, it may develop into a bigger crack if left untreated, requiring complete windshield replacement. So, don’t take a bullseye for granted. Once it is visible on your car’s windshield, be sure to make the necessary repairs to minimize the cost and avoid an expensive replacement.

The Chips

A chip is a minor damage to the windshield due to the impact of a small flying object, like a tiny rock or pebble. But at high speed, the impact can be strong, causing a chunk of the glass to chip off. 

A chip in the driver’s line of vision may distort the view, posing a safety hazard while driving. In this case, a windshield replacement is advisable for safety purposes. 

But if the damage occurs out of the driver’s line of vision, a chip is usually repairable using car windshield repair kits. Some people prefer to call the rock chips ‘dings’, while others may actually refer to the simple chips when they mention windshield pits.

Stress Cracks

A stress crack is not the result of an impact by a flying object. Instead, it results from stress on the windshield, due to a sudden change of temperature, or a heavy load on top of the windshield. A stress crack is common in areas with extreme outdoor temperatures. 

Frequent use of the defroster on an iced up windshield may eventually result in stress cracks. The same is true with turning on the air conditioning to the maximum in an extremely hot vehicle after the windshield has been exposed to direct sunlight for hours.

Depending on the extent of damage, stress cracks may be repairable. But if the extent is extensive, a total windshield replacement is the safer option.

Edge Cracks

An edge crack is something car owners would shun to see. While these cracks may be small, it is a sure sign of the impending costly windshield replacement. 

Edge cracks happen near the edges of the vehicle’s windshield. Some may appear small due to low impact. But, regular use of the car will soon affect the edge cracks, causing it to spread further until replacement becomes inevitable for safety concerns. 

Unfortunately, cracks at the edges of the windshield are not repairable. So, it is best to consult a glass expert for professional advice.

Floater Cracks

In contrast to edge cracks, floater cracks appear in the middle of the windshield. They are at least two inches away from the edges. 

Just like edge cracks, floater cracks sometimes may appear small at the onset. But, these small cracks will soon become big if not repaired instantly. 

Floater cracks, as small as 6 inches and below, are repairable using a windshield crack repair kit. But larger floater cracks may require a total replacement of the windshield.

5 Major Benefits of Using a Windshield Repair Kit

Using a Windshield Repair Kit

Sometimes we have no other option but to consult a professional, but that’s not always the case. Here are a few reasons why doing it yourself is the better option.

Effective Repair on Broken Glasses

For chips and minor cracks, windshield glass repair kits effectively eliminate the blemishes caused due to flying rocks. The key for a windshield crack repair kit to work lies on special components, such as resin or silicone, that effectively fill the gaps and seal the cracks.

When sufficiently cured, these resins and silicone will toughen the chip with shear strength, almost at par with the glass. By carefully following each windshield repair kit’s strict procedures, you will achieve the best result and effectively restore your windshield’s pristine condition.

Easy to Use

Another compelling reason to use a windshield repair kit is, they are easy to use. Any car owner can perform the application process even without any prior experience. Thus, there is no need to hire technicians, which could add to the repair costs. 

The process is easy, and you can complete the task in a couple of minutes. Most kits come with an illustrated manual or a video demo demonstrating the step-by-step process on how to repair cracked/chipped windshield. The guide will ensure the correct implementation of each step, which is crucial to achieving the best result.

They Offer a Less Costly Option

An average windshield replacement can cost about $300 to $500. But it could be more for high-quality and durable laminated windshields. It can be quite expensive to replace the entire windshield for a minor scratch. Fortunately, the repair kits provide an effective solution to minor damages and scratches, at a cheaper cost for less than a hundred bucks. 

Prevents Cracks from Spreading

A small chip can transform into a big crack under constant stress and pressure of every day driving. Water that seeps through the hairline cracks during heavy rain could further worsen the damage and weaken the glass. By fixing the chip using a windshield repair kit, you do not only prevent the spread, but you also prevent a potential expensive windshield replacement.

Flexible Options

Windshield repair kits are available in major stores, like Walmart and even online on Amazon. These kits are available in multiple brands. Each brand has its own unique solution to windshield damage. Some kits have more complex steps, while others are simple and straightforward. Thus, offering flexibility of choice for the solution to the issue.

While the availability of multiple options provides flexibility, these choices could be taxing while shopping for the best product that suits your needs. For this reason, here are the top picks for the best windshield repair kits in the marketplace today. After extensive study, tryouts, and going through multiple reviews, I have come up with a list of the best brands of repair kits for windshields.

Best Windshield Repair Kit Reviews

My top picks for the best windshield repair kits are industry leaders and tested in eliminating minor cracks and windshield chips. The list considers the ease of use, effectiveness, Amazon high ratings, and feedback from customers with a real-word experience of using the product. 

Below are the top picks for the best brand in their own class.

Versachem Windshield Repair Kit

MANUFACTURER: Versachem | BRAND: Versachem | ITEM WEIGHT: 0.48 ounces | PRODUCT TYPE: Flowable Silicone | BOX CONTENT:  1 tube of flowable silicone

The Versachem windshield flowable silicone offers one of the easiest and fastest solutions to windshield cracks and chips. Unlike resin-based windshield repair kits, the Versachem kit provides a new level of repair using a flowable silicone, devoid of complex tools and intricate procedures.

The advanced solventless silicone is formulated to easily flow into cracks and chips to form a clear and tough yet flexible airtight seal, resistant to shock and vibrations. The Versachem windshield repair kit is perfect not just for car windshields but for headlamp assemblies and sunroofs, as well. 

It works for glass, metal, rubber, concrete, wood, and plastic materials, too. Thus, it is an all-around handy tool that you can carry in the trunk of your car. But to achieve the optimum result, you must also observe the recommended temperature range. Likewise, a one-hour setting time for the silicone should be observed, followed by a 24-hour cure time. 

If done right, you can save hundreds of dollars for the cost of total windshield replacement for minor cracks that can be fixed by the Versachem Windshield Flowable Silicone at a fraction of the cost. This is a product to have in the emergency toolbox for every car owner.

Follow the link for an in-depth look at The Versachem Windshield Repair Kit.

Pros
  • Works best on glass, concrete, wood, rubber, plastic, and metal
  • Resistant to vibration, weather, shock, and most chemicals
  • Easy to use without complex repair procedures
Cons
  • Each kit is good for single use only
  • Not for cracks more than one inch
Versachem 75009 Flowable Windshield Silicone – 1.5 oz.
  • Formulated to flow into cracks to form a clear, tough, flexible and airtight seal
  • Resistant to weather, vibration, shock, and most shop chemicals
  • Set time: 1 hour; Cure time: 24 hours

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Rain X Windshield Repair Kit

MANUFACTURER: Rain-X | BRAND: Rain-X | ITEM WEIGHT: 2.56 ounces | PRODUCT TYPE: Advanced Resin Formula |  BOX CONTENTS: 1 bottle of 1 gram resin, 1 repair device consisting of a resin chamber and an applicator base with four rubber suction cups, 1 curing strip, 1 sleeved razor blade, and an instruction sheet.

The Rain X windshield repair kit prevents rain from seeping deeper through the glass chips and avoids spreading the crack. An advanced resin formula fills the gaps and seals the cracks. 

Every kit comes with a repair device with a pressure driver to push the resin to the chamber and drive it into the crack. A curing strip is also available for the finishing touch.

For the best result, the repair should be made right after the crack occurs. The procedure should ideally be carried out in the shade. Some repairs may end up in poor quality due to failure of the resin penetrating the cracks completely. 

Therefore, you should examine the crack at a 113℉ angle during the repair to check if it is no longer visible. Otherwise, you may have to repeat the resin-application process. 

A comprehensive easy-to-follow instruction sheet comes with the Rain-X 600001 windshield repair kit. An average car owner should perform the repair smoothly by following the instructions to achieve the best results.

Follow the link for an in-depth look at The Rain X Windshield Repair Kit.

Pros
  • Quick and easy to repair in just a few minutes
  • Crack vanishes at a 45-degree angle
  • Best for multiple repairs with a highly-advanced resin formula
Cons
  • The repair may not work on cracks beyond 12 inches.
  • It does not cover edge cracks
Rain-X 600001 Windshield Repair Kit – Quick And Easy Durable Resin Based Kit for Chips and Cracks, Good For Round Damage Below 1″ In Diameter And Cracks Smaller Than 12″ In Length, BLUE,YELLOW
  • Stops The Spread of Chips and Cracks – Rain-X Windshield Repair Kit Helps You Minimize The Appearance And Stop The Spread Of Chips And Cracks In…
  • Easy To Use – Everything You Need Is Included, Takes Only Minutes With Minimal Steps. For Cracks Simply Apply Resin To Crack Then Curing Strips,…
  • Durable Resin Formula – Use Durable Resin To Make Windshields Stronger Than Before, Repairing All Types Of Laminated Windshields Up To First…

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Blue Star Windshield Repair Kit

MANUFACTURER: Versachem | BRAND: Versachem | ITEM WEIGHT: 0.48 ounces | PRODUCT TYPE: Deep Penetrating Resin Formula | BOX CONTENTS: 1 Blue Star repair injector, 1 mylar curing film, 1 adhesive alignment seal, 1 tube of quick cure resin, 1 resin chamber pedestal, 1 razor blade, 1 instruction sheet.

The Blue Star windshield repair kit restores your windshield to brand new condition and prevents chips from spreading. The quick cure resin fills the gaps in cracks and cures with daylight for the best result.. The kit comes with an adhesive seal plus an injector for a clean job, restoring the windshield to a near-pristine state within ten minutes. 

However, a curing period should be observed under the shade to allow the resin to solidify and strengthen for better durability. You must also avoid working under direct sunlight and on a hot windshield. So, allow some time to cool off the glass under a shade before you work on the repair.

The windshield repair kit by Blue Star is a cost-effective solution to windshield problems during long drives. It significantly saves you money and time. You can make a quick fix on minor chips as they happen and avoid chips from developing into full-blown cracks.

One of the major advantages of the Blue Star rock chip repair kit is the ease of use. It comes with a deep penetrating resin formula in a tube. Thus, requiring no mixing during the process. Just follow the steps and inject the resin, and you are done in a few minutes. 

Follow the link for an indepth look at The Blue Star Windshield Repair Kit.

Pros
  • It has a special deep-penetrating resin that cures with sunlight for the best result
  • It prevents stone chips from spreading
  • Easy to use and cost-effective repair kit
Cons
  • Only good for minor chips and small cracks
  • Requires longer curing time

Permatex Windshield Repair Kit

MANUFACTURER: Rain-X | BRAND: Permatex | ITEM WEIGHT: 0.8 ounces | PRODUCT TYPE: Advanced Resin Formula | BOX CONTENTS: 1 Permatex Windshield repair syringe & plunger, repair compound – net 0.025 fl oz., 1 pedestal, 1 razor blade, 1 curing strip, 1 adhesive disc, 1 alcohol towelette, 1 push pin, and 1 instruction sheet.

The Permatex windshield repair kit has the solution to bullseye cracks on laminated windshields up to 1.25 inches. The kit lets you make permanent air-tight repairs on cracks and chips in just a few minutes.

The highly-advanced spring lock feature provides a state-of-the-art delivery system for professional-quality windshield repairs. Any average driver can do the job by following the easy steps with a video demo for guidance. 

Unlike other glass repair kits that involve the mixing of different components, the Permatex rock chip repair kit requires no mixing. The resin cures under natural daylight, and your windshield will look better within an hour or two.

However, to achieve the expected results, certain outdoor conditions should be observed. You have to repair within the recommended temperature range. If all instructions are followed, it is good to go, and the blemish on the windshield will no longer be visible.

Follow the link for an in-depth look at The Permatex Windshield Repair Kit.

Pros
  • Repairs bullseye cracks up to 1-1/4″ on most laminated windshield glass
  • With a spring-lock feature that lets you make repairs with no mixing required
  • Cures through natural daylight
Cons
  • Works for average minor chips and angle-view cracks
  • Needs to achieve the perfect mix to work
Permatex 09103 Automotive Windshield Repair Kit For Chipped And Cracked Windshields. Permanent Air-Tight Repairs, With Repair Syringe & Plunger, 9-piece Kit
  • Permanent Air-Tight Repairs – Permatex’s Automotive Windshield Repair Kit Repairs And Restores Bullseye Damage Up To 1 1/4″ On Most Laminated…
  • Professional Repair & Wide Use – Permatex’s Windshield Repair Kit Can Quickly And Effectively Repair Damage With This Easy-To-Use System, No…
  • All-In-One Kit – Provides Everything Needed For The Repair Including Easy-To-Follow Instructions With Photographs, Syringe And Plunger System For…

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

3M Windshield Repair Kit

MANUFACTURER: 3M AAD Consumer  | BRAND: 3M | ITEM WEIGHT: 3.2 ounces | PRODUCT TYPE: Clear Glass Resin | BOX CONTENTS:  1 alcohol wipe, 1 scraping blade, 1 bridge assembly, 2 suction cups, 1 dropper, 3 Phillips head screws, 1 bottle glass repair resin, 1 resin chamber, 1 resin chamber tip, 1 injector, 1 injector o-ring, 1 stick pin, and 1 clear plastic film.

The 3M windshield repair kit makes repairs an easy job, as it is designed for typical car owners looking for DIY windshield chip repair kits to avoid costly repairs at glass shops. The kit includes the necessary tools for a quick repair job on minor glass chips and small cracks. 

There is no need to use other tools aside from the ones inside the kit. You can perform the tasks, even if you have no prior experience. An instruction guide with illustrations on how to fix cracked/chipped windshield comes with the kit to ensure the correct implementation of every step.

3M uses a clear glass resin to fill the spider web cracks and repair bullseye chips. Thus, fixing windshield crack issues caused by small rocks kicked up by other vehicles. 

It also prevents small chips from turning into full-blown windshield cracks. Moreover, it minimizes minor chips’ appearance for a new look on the windshield.

However, cracks in the car driver’s line of vision may require professional consultation for safety reasons. Likewise, bigger cracks may need total windshield replacement. But you can prevent the expensive replacement by fixing the chips before they develop into a full crack using the 3M windshield repair kit.

Follow the link for an indepth look at The 3M Windshield Repair Kit.

Pros
  • Uses a clear glass resin to fill and repair minor bull’s eye chips and spider web cracks
  • Prevents damage from spreading over the car’s windshield
  • The easy-to-use kit requires no special mixing and tools
Cons
  • Works best only for small glass chips less than one inch
  • Not for cracks in the driver’s line of vision
Sale
3M Windshield Repair Kit, 08580
  • Glass resin fills small bull’s eyes and chips to prevent spreading
  • Preventative damage control can stop more extensive damage from spreading
  • Repair kit minimizes appearance of glass chip to make windshield look like new

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

American Mini Windshield Repair Kit

MANUFACTURER: American Windshield Repair Systems | BRAND: American Windshield Repair Systems | ITEM WEIGHT: 15ml Repair Resin and 10ml Pit Filler Resin | PRODUCT TYPE: Pit Filler Resin | BOX CONTENTS: 1 repair bridge, 5 external end seals, 10 inner o-rings, 5 drill bits, UV flashlight LED, 1 repair resin (15ml), 1 pit filler resin (10ml), 1 6-inch UV light with a suction cup, 100 count curing film strips, 5 razor blades, 1 variable high-speed rotary tool with charger of 9.6 volt, 1 heating element, 1 single point probe, 1 repair video (DVD), 1 nylon case with strap.

The American Mini windshield repair kit is an all-in-one comprehensive tool for most types of professional windshield cracks and chip repairs. This is not just a kit for repairing a single crack and minor chip on the windshield. 

Instead, the American Mini windshield repair kit is a complete windshield/glass repair business in a box that allows you to perform multiple professional quality repairs up to 50 times. Thus, making the American mini-windshield repair kit perfect for owners of multiple vehicles and small to medium-sized businesses with a vehicle fleet.

The American Mini Kit has practically everything you need for professional repair works on chipped and cracked glasses. Each kit has a windshield repair bridge and a tool to inject the repair resin into the glass. The repair resin also comes along with the cracked glass repair kit. 

While most windshield repair kits focus solely on repairs, the American Mini kit goes one step further by adding a pit filler resin for the finishing touch. The pit filler seals the newly-repaired glass with a hard finish for utmost durability while providing a professional workshop-quality finish.

Whether you plan to start a small windshield repair business or have several vehicles that may need instant windshield repairs during long drives, the American Mini windshield repair kit provides the most comprehensive windshield repair with the best quality output. It is also cost-effective from the long-term perspective for multiple uses.

Follow the link for an indepth look at The American Mini Windshield Repair Kit.

Pros
  • Has sufficient windshield repair resin (upto 50 repairs)
  • High-quality rock chip quick in-shop or on-site windshield repair
  • It comes with pit filler for added durability and finishing touch
Cons
  • The high price makes it best for car repair shops to do multiple repairs
  • More intricate procedure for a DIY windshield crack repair
American Windshield Repair Kit – Complete Auto Glass Repair Business Start-Up – Fix All Types of Stone and Rock Chips – Glass Chip Repair Tools – Including Video and Training Manual Download
  • Anodized Bridge: New design with a window that provides even better veiwing so that you can see those legs coming from the center of the star…
  • 23 YEARS: For 23 years we have been a proven provider of auto glass repair systems. The American Mini Windshield Repair Kit is designed for…
  • 100 REPAIRS: Do 100 or more repairs! This kit now includes an extra 15ml bottle of repair resin, 30 replacement O-rings and 15 External End…

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Final Recommendations

There is no perfect product that fits all purposes. One kit may have the best feature, but it may come with a higher price to pay. For windshield repair kits, the repair procedure is something to keep in mind. Some kits have complex steps, while others are easy to follow. 

Affordability, good quality, and easy steps are all the things you would like to see crammed up in a single kit. But it is a rare find. There are always compromises between price and quality. So, here are the final picks and recommendations for a windshield repair kit that could suit your preference.

Best for a Business

The American Mini Windshield Repair Kit is perfect for owners of multiple cars, small businesses, and companies with a fleet of vehicles. This is also the ideal kit to use for those planning to start a windshield repair shop. The kit is designed for business use. It comes with the necessary in-shop tools to provide the best quality repair output at a professional level. 

Easiest to Use

The Versachem Windshield Repair Kit is the best for a quick and easy repair, offering the simplest and most straightforward fix to minor windshield cracks. The open-and-apply procedure allows anyone within the driving age to perform the repair at a fraction of the cost of the American Mini Kit. The Versachem is also a minimalist windshield crack repair kit with only a tube of flowable silicone, unlike resin-based kits that contain many items, including the application and installation devices.

Best for Spider Web Cracks

The 3M Windshield Repair Kit is the ideal choice for spider web cracks. The highly advanced glass resin of 3M can penetrate even the tiniest hairline cracks and closes the gaps to remove the blemish. It also prevents the crack from spreading further. 

Best for Bullseye

Bullseye cracks are more intricate to repair considering the multiple hairline cracks spreading from the point of impact. You will need a special tool to keep the glass in place during the repair, and the Permatex Windshield Repair Kit has the best solution for it. The state-of-the-art repair device of Permatex lets you fix bullseye crack with ease.

Best Chip Repair Kit

The Blue Star Windshield Repair Kit is the best windshield chip repair kit. The deep-penetrating resin formula effectively creates an air-tight seal around the chip and prevents it from spreading. It will take the blemish out and toughen the broken part of the glass.

Best for Stars and Multiple Repairs

The Rain X Windshield Repair Kit is the ideal choice for a star crack, which is a series of small radial cracks coming off of the point of impact, resembling a star. This also prevents the spread of the crack. This can be used for other glass damages, like on headlamps and sunroofs, as well. Thus, making it ideal to carry around for emergency glass repairs.

Top Selling Windshield Repait Kits

Last update on 2024-03-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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