Preparing Your Car Glass for Autumn: Essential Tips for UK Drivers

Published: September 2025

As summer winds down and we head into autumn, now is the perfect time to give your car's glass some much-needed attention. The changing season brings unique challenges for windscreens and windows, making September an ideal month for maintenance and repairs.

At My Car Glass, we've seen firsthand how the autumn months bring a surge in windscreen problems that could have been prevented with timely attention.

Why September Matters for Car Glass Care

The transition from summer to autumn creates the perfect storm for windscreen problems. Temperature fluctuations become more dramatic, morning dew increases, and the first storms of the season are often just around the corner. Small chips that seemed harmless during the stable summer weather can quickly become major cracks once autumn's temperature swings begin.

Common Autumn Glass Challenges

Temperature Shock Those crisp September mornings followed by warm afternoons create thermal stress on your windscreen. Any existing chips or small cracks can expand rapidly when glass contracts and expands repeatedly.

Increased Debris Autumn winds blow more debris onto roads, while falling leaves can hide road hazards. Construction projects often ramp up before winter, meaning more loose chippings on motorways.

Reduced Visibility Lower sun angles create more glare, while morning mist and early evening darkness put extra strain on your windscreen wipers and glass clarity.

Your September Glass Maintenance Checklist

Inspect for Damage

Take 10 minutes to carefully examine your windscreen for chips, cracks, or scratches. Pay special attention to areas directly in your line of sight and the edges of the glass where temperature stress is highest.

Clean Thoroughly

Remove summer's built-up grime, insect residue, and road film. Use a quality glass cleaner and microfibre cloth, paying attention to both interior and exterior surfaces.

Check Wiper Blades

Replace worn wiper blades before autumn rains arrive. Poor wipers can scratch your windscreen and reduce visibility when you need it most.

Test Heating Systems

Ensure your rear window demister and heated windscreen (if equipped) are working properly. These systems will be essential in the coming months.

Don't Delay Repairs

If you've been putting off that small windscreen repair, September is the time to act. What might cost £25-50 to fix now could become a £200+ replacement by November. Most comprehensive insurance policies cover windscreen repairs with little to no excess.

According to the DVSA's MOT testing guide, windscreen damage can result in serious test failures, making early repairs even more crucial.

MOT Considerations

With many MOT tests due in the spring following registration peaks, getting windscreen issues sorted now prevents potential failures later. Any chip larger than 10mm in the driver's critical vision area (A-zone) will result in an MOT failure.

Professional vs. DIY

While you can handle cleaning and basic maintenance yourself, leave chip and crack repairs to the professionals. Modern windscreens have complex layers and safety features that require specialist knowledge and equipment.

Our comprehensive range of services includes everything from minor chip repairs to full windscreen replacements, all carried out by certified technicians. The RAC's guide to windscreen care emphasises the importance of professional repairs for maintaining your vehicle's structural integrity.

Looking Ahead

Preparing your car glass now sets you up for safer winter driving. Clear, intact glass is crucial for navigating darker mornings, longer nights, and challenging weather conditions that autumn and winter bring.

Don't wait until the first frost reveals that summer chip has become a winter catastrophe. Book your windscreen inspection and any necessary repairs this September – your safety and wallet will thank you.

We cover locations across the UK, so wherever you are, check our areas we cover to find your local service area. According to Which? Car Insurance, most comprehensive policies include windscreen cover, making September the perfect time for that overdue repair.

For professional windscreen services and free damage assessments, contact My Car Glass today. Most repairs can be completed in under an hour, often at your location.