How to Remove a Windshield

Removing a windshield is a job best left to professionals, but you can tackle it yourself with patience and the right tools. Follow these steps and use the protective equipment to protect yourself and the car from broken glass damage.

Step 1: Cover the Car Hood for Protection

Using large towels or an old flannel sheet or blanket, cover the car hood so it will not be scratched when the windshield is removed.

Step 2: Remove the Windshield Wipers

Use the correct size of socket wrench to release the nuts holding the windshield wipers in place. Remove the wipers and set them aside to reinstall later.

Step 3: Release Clips Around Moulding and Lubricate the Perimeter

Find and release all the clips that keep the windshield's weather stripping and interior moulding in place. Discard these as you will not be able to reuse them. Coat the entire perimeter of the windshield with silicone putty lubricant so it will slide easily out of the window frame.

Step 4: Pull Away the Old Moulding with a Pry Bar

Pull away the old moulding and weatherstripping around the windshield. Discard it, as you will want to replace it when you put in a new windshield. If you are recycling the car, it is best to remove it so it will not contaminate the recyclable car materials.

Step 5: Place the Suction Cup Handle on the Windshield

Place the suction-cup handle on the windshield and press it down firmly to make a tight seal. Ask your assistant to get up on the hood and grasp the suction-cup handle tightly, and direct him or her to pull when you push.

Step 6: Push the Windshield Out of the Window Frame

Recline the car's front driver and passenger seats. Lie back in the driver's seat, tilt the steering wheel out of the way, and push steadily with your feet on the driver's side upper corner of the windshield. Change seats and push on the upper corner of the windshield on the passenger side. Your assistant should now be able to pull on the suction-cup handle and pop the windshield out of the window frame.

Step 7: Dispose of the Old Windshield

Take the old windshield to landfill or make arrangements to recycle it where facilities exist in your area for recycling automotive glass.

Precautions

Both you and your assistant should wear safety gloves and eye protection when removing a windshield. Windshields are made of safety glass, which will splinter into tiny pieces if it sustains a large crack during this process. Those pieces can easily lodge in eyes or penetrate skin.

Avoid removing your own windshield if you are going to install a new one. An improperly installed windshield can cause injury or contribute to a vehicle accident, which will void your auto insurance.