When To Replace Your Honda CRX Windshield for Safety and Performance

Why You May Need a CRX Windshield Replacement

The Honda CRX was a popular two-seater sports coupe produced from 1984 to 1991. Known for its lightweight design and performance capabilities, the CRX became a favorite among driving enthusiasts. However, even well-maintained CRX models can eventually develop issues that require repairs like a windshield replacement.

There are a few common reasons why a CRX may need a new windshield:

1. Windshield Chips and Cracks

Windshield chips and cracks are a common occurrence on any vehicle driven regularly on the road. Small chips and pits caused by flying debris can spread into major cracks over time. Cracks obstruct vision and weaken the structural integrity of the windshield.

CRXs have a large, sloped windshield that is prone to chips and cracks. The windshield on these older vehicles can become stressed and damaged from exposure to the elements over many years. Even minor chips and pits should be repaired quickly to prevent more extensive windshield replacement needs.

2. Windshield Pitting and Wear

Years of driving expose windshields to dirt, debris, and weather that can cause the glass surface to deteriorate. Pitting, clouding, and erosion wear down the windshield over time. Severe pitting causes light scattering and glare that makes driving difficult and dangerous.

Older CRX windshields that have never been replaced are likely to show advanced pitting and wear. The windshield glass will need to be swapped out to restore optical clarity for safe driving visibility.

3. Seal Failure

The urethane seal between the windshield glass and vehicle body often begins to fail on aging vehicles. When the adhesive seal weakens, air and water can enter the cabin. Loose glass also makes the windshield prone to vibrating, flexing, and correct positioning.

Checking for proper windshield seal adhesion is an important maintenance task on older CRXs. Any evidence of seal failure or leaking means the windshield should be replaced with fresh urethane seals for weather tightness and noise reduction.

CRX Windshield Replacement Process

While DIY windshield replacement is possible, the specialized tools and controlled environment of professional auto glass shops make them better suited for the job. Here is an overview of the CRX windshield installation process:

Removing the Old Windshield

The first step is to remove the trim, wipers, and any sensors attached to the original windshield. Next, the glass tech will use special tools to cut through the aged urethane seal bonding the glass to the body. With access gained, the windshield can be carefully withdrawn from the CRX.

Preparing the Window Frame

Before the new windshield can be installed, the window frame area must be cleaned and prepped. Any remaining old sealant is scraped away. The surface is then cleaned and treated with primers and activators to ready it for fresh urethane adhesive.

Installing the New Windshield

With preparations complete, the new replacement windshield is test fitted into the open frame. Alignment and fit are checked before the glass is removed again for sealing. Urethane adhesive beads are applied to the window frame surface, and then the glass is set in place.

The windshield is temporarily held in the proper position using clips and tape. The urethane sealant begins curing and bonding strongly within hours. The seal integrity helps hold the glass securely in alignment.

Finishing Touches

After allowing time for the urethane seal to initially cure, the finish work can be completed. The windshield trim and moldings are reinstalled to conceal the seal. Any wipers, sensors, and accessories previously removed are mounted back into place on the new windshield.

Why Proper Windshield Replacement Matters

A faulty or incorrectly installed windshield puts the safety of CRX drivers and passengers at risk. Professional replacement using the proper methods ensures the windshield meets important strength, sealing, and optical clarity needs.

Safety and Structural Integrity

The windshield is a critical part of the vehicle body structure. When bonded and sealed correctly to the frame, the glass helps reinforce and stabilize the CRX chassis. A windshield installed incorrectly can flex, twist, and misalign under stress.

Vision and Clarity

Distortion-free optical clarity is vital for driving visibility. Windshield glass must be uniformly clear and free of defects that scatter light. Proper seal bonding prevents glass flexing that can distort vision. Auto glass shops have specialized tools to prevent optical defects.

Weatherproofing

Complete weather sealing is necessary to keep the cabin dry and comfortable. Expert installation produces an airtight urethane seal between glass and body. Leaks can allow wind noise, heat loss, fumes, and moisture intrusion.

Damage Prevention

Correct windshield replacement technique minimizes stress on the glass. Proper alignment, seal application, and curing time help prevent future seal failure or cracks from vibration and road impacts. Expert installation maximizes the windshield lifetime.

Signs You Need Windshield Replacement

Monitoring your CRX windshield for problems provides early awareness when replacement is needed. Check for these key signs of windshield wear and damage:

• Chips, cracks, or pits in the glass
• Visibility-blocking clouding or wear
• Failing urethane seals allowing air/water leaks
• Optical distortion or double vision developing
• Looseness, vibration, or ill-fitting of the glass

Scheduling preventive windshield replacement before severe damage occurs helps restore full visibility and integrity. Addressing problems early also prevents more extensive repairs later on.

Finding Quality Windshield Replacement

Not all windshield repair providers have the expertise to service older specialty models like the CRX properly. Finding qualified auto glass specialists ensures a safe, lasting, and effective windshield replacement result.

Look for established auto glass shops with certified technicians, official accreditations, and a strong reputation for quality workmanship. They will have access to car-specific replacement windshields and use approved methods and urethane adhesives.

With responsible preventive maintenance and timely professional windshield replacement when needed, your classic Honda CRX can continue providing many more years and miles of happy motoring.

FAQs

How can I tell if my CRX windshield needs to be replaced?

Check for chips, cracks, pitting, clouding, wiper scratches, and distortion which indicate replacement is needed. Also inspect for leaks, looseness, or wind noise pointing to seal failure. If the glass is compromised, replacement is the fix.

Is it safe to drive with minor windshield cracks or chips?

No, even minor glass flaws weaken the windshield structure. Quickly worsen into major cracks obstructing vision. Get minor chips and small cracks repaired right away to prevent a bigger problem requiring full replacement.

Can I replace a CRX windshield myself?

DIY replacement is not advisable. It requires special tools to remove old glass and install new properly. Incorrect DIY installation risks leaks, seal failure, distortion, and other issues. Let professional auto glass techs do the job.

Where can I find replacement windshields made for a CRX?

Aftermarket manufacturers continue supplying CRX direct-fit replacement windshields. A qualified glass shop will source the proper windshield version for your model year and install it using specialty urethane adhesives.

How much does it cost to replace a CRX windshield?

CRX windshield replacement costs $200 - $400 on average when done professionally. Prices vary by local labor rates, shop fees, glass quality, and whether wipers/sensors need to be transferred over. Get an exact quote from your installer.