How Long Does a Windshield Replacement Take? Sterling Heights Expert Explains

If you’ve ever been greeted by a cracked or shattered windshield, chances are that the number one question on your mind is: “How long will this last?”

Whether you're rushing the morning commute or trying to get to your kid's soccer game, the time it will take for a windshield replacement can seem like an eternity. But here’s the good news: For the most part, windshield replacements don’t require nearly as much time you might initially assume.

As a Sterling Heights auto glass expert who’s been around the block a few times here, today I’m here to provide you with all the details on how long it takes to replace your windshield, what factors go into that timing and how you can make life easy during the replacement process.

How Long on an Average Does a Windshield Replacement Take?

A windshield replacement normally takes between 60 and 90 minutes.

This includes:

• Taking out the old windshield – approximately 15–20 minutes

• Frame prep and gluing – 15-20 minutes MORE.

• Attaching the new windshield – roughly 30 minutes

But while the actual removal process isn’t time consuming, what actually matters is how long it has to cure — or the time it takes for the adhesive (urethane) application to effectively set and adhere your glass to your vehicle.

Curing Time: Why It’s Important

Even if the installation appears complete, your car isn’t ready to drive off at once.

I have seen about 1 hour to couple of hours as a safe "Drive away" time from most tech. on the type of adhesive being used, and the weather at present even if your asked less than 60min is asking for trouble who ever downloaded it in few minutes sure does not care.

If the adhesive doesn’t cure completely, the windshield may not remain in place as intended during an accident or other impact. That’s why trustworthy Sterling Heights auto glass shops typically focus on cure time — for them, it’s a matter of your safety rather than speed.

Factors That Affect Replacement Time

Not all replacements are created equal. There can be several factors that impact the time it takes for your replacement:

Vehicle Make and Model

Higher-end and newer cars with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) — think lane departure warning or automatic braking, among other features — frequently need to be calibrated after the new glass is installed.

That can tack an additional 30–60 minutes on to your total time.

Type of Glass

If your windshield comes with some of these features built in — such as sensors for the automatic wipers, rain detectors and heating elements — it will take longer than a regular windshield to replace it.

Weather Conditions

The curing time is influenced by temperature and humidity. On Michigan’s humid or cold days, the adhesive can sometimes take longer to fully adhere.

Technician Experience

“The guy that’s done so many, they can bust that in and get it put in; probably getting a good job without the corners cut,” she said.A technician like this quote from Save On Auto Glass of Sterling Heights can just as quickly install at a cheaper price point.

Mobile vs. In-Shop Service

Mobile replacement can be a hassle — the technician comes to your home or office — and curing may take longer in some conditions, due to wind or temperature.

Steps to Get Your Windshield Replaced

When you go in for a windshield replacement, Sterling Heights — here’s what happens next:

• Inspection & Preparation

The technician examines the damage, tests individual sensors and removes trim pieces.

• Old Windshield Removal

• Special tools slice through the adhesive bonding your old windshield to the car.

• Cleaning & Frame Preparation

• The frame (pinch weld) is scrubbed to clean off any old adhesive and dirt.

• New Adhesive Application

5.1.2 Second layer A second coat of urethane adhesive is spread similarly.

• Windshield Installation

• New windshield is aligned and set using suction cups.

• Curing Time

• The car sits while the adhesive sets up.

Purchasers Will Receive Run-flats will be swapped out to standard tires upon purchase Final Dealer Inspection & ADAS Calibration (if necessary)

The technician tests for leaks and makes sure the seal is secure, and if your car has sensors or cameras, calibrates them.

How Soon Can You Drive After Windshield Replacement?

You may drive within 1 to 2 hours after installation.

However, to stay safe:

• Try not to slam doors for 24 hours (this could create pressure that weakens the seal).

• Do not wash your car for at least 48 hours.

• Crack a window slightly to keep the air pressure balanced.

• Listen and follow EVERYTHING your technician tells you to do at home.

• Mobile Auto Glass Substitution Sterling Heights

• If you’re pressed for time, mobile service could be your best option.

Our trained experts at Save On Auto Glass can meet you in your home, work place, or anywhere else you’re parked. We bring all the tools and materials we need, and it typically takes about as long as in-shop service — around 60-90 minutes.

Just be sure that your car is parked in a safe, dry spot where it’s out of direct sunlight to allow for accurate application and curing.

Indications That You Need a Complete Windshield Replacement (Rather Than a Repair)

At TIMES, SOMEONE will take for granted that any chip or crack can be repaired. But that isn’t true as much as we might like it to be. If you have these, then more likely than not, your only solution is to go with full replacement:

• The crack is more than 6 inches startActivity by Skip to end Start the discussion.

• The breaks all the way to the edge of the glass

• The potato chip is in your focal field of view

• There are several chips or spreading cracks

White haze or internal damage to the windshield.

If the answer’s yes to one or more of these, your Michigan windshield replacement needs to happen for safety’s sake and to keep your car road-legal.

How to Speed Up the Process

Need your windshield replaced quickly and safely? Here are a few tips:

✅ Schedule an appointment in advance — eliminates wait time.

✅ When calling, have your vehicle details ready (make, model, year and VIN).

✅ Find a reputable local shop with experience that offers OEM-quality material.

✅ Do not drive or touch the screen during curing period.

Why Save On Auto Glass is the best choice in Sterling Heights

We know your time is important here at Save On Auto Glass – but not as important as your safety.

Here’s why so many Sterling Heights drivers trust us:

🚗 Quick same day service on most cars

🔧 Certified and insured technicians

🧩 OEM-quality glass and adhesives

⚙️ ADAS recalibration services available

🏠 No additional fee for mobile service

💰 Insurance assistance and affordable pricing

We’ve been assisting motorists throughout Sterling Heights, Troy and Metro Detroit get back on the road safely and in a timely manner & we would be happy to do the same for you.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the average time for a windshield replacement?

Typically 60 to 90 minutes — not counting an hour or two of curing.

But more important even than whether you “do it by the clock,” as Grandma would put it, is whether you do it right. A correctly installed windshield protects you, your passengers, and the car's structure.

For no-nonsense windshield replacement in Sterling Heights, get in touch with Save On Auto Glass. We'll ensure your car's clear view — and yours, peace of mind — is fully restored.