Windshield - Procedure To Check For Cracks

SOURCE:
Honda Service News April 2004

TITLE:
What Caused That Windshield Crack?

APPLIES TO:
2003-04 Element

SERVICE TIP:

Need to know what caused a crack windshield in a 2003-04 Element (or any other vehicle)? Follow these steps to find out:

1. Look for an external chip in the windshield crack.

- If you see a chip, a flying object caused the crack.

- If you don't see a chip, then run the tip of a pin or a ball point pen along the length of the crack. If the pin or pen stops or skips in a crater, a flying object caused the crack. If the pin or pen glides smoothly along the entire length, then internal stresses or a deformed windshield flange could be the cause. Go to step 2.

2. Remove the windshield and all the sealer (see page 20-37 of the 2003-04 Element S/M). (You can also find this info in ISIS under SEARCH BY VEHICLE. Use the keyword Windshield, and select Windshield Replacement from the list.)

3. Carefully place the new windshield on the windshield flange.

4. Insert a feeler gauge between the flange and the windshield, and run it along the entire length of the windshield.

- If the gauge hangs up, remove the windshield, and check the flange for deformation. Refer to S/B 03-028, 2003 Element: Windshield Is Cracked at the Lower Corners, for windshield flange repair info.

- If the feeler gauge doesn't hang up, the install the new windshield (see page 20-37 of the S/M or go into ISIS).