Have you ever been driving along and heard that dreaded “ping” sound on your windscreen? That tiny piece of stone chip damage might look harmless, but it can quickly turn into an expensive headache if you don’t act fast.
At Infiniti Motor Group, we see dozens of cars every week where a small stone chip has grown into a massive crack that needs a full windscreen replacement. The good news? Most of these costly repairs could have been avoided with quick stone chip repair.
We handle all types of vehicle damage – from car scratch repair to windscreen issues – and we know that quick action always saves money.
What Causes Stone Chip Damage?
Stone chip damage happens when small rocks, gravel, or debris hit your windscreen at high speed. This usually occurs when other vehicles kick up stones from the road surface, or when trucks drop small debris. Even at moderate speeds, these tiny projectiles can create chips that weaken your windscreen’s structure.
The most common causes include:
- Stones flicked up by other vehicles, especially at high speed on motorways
- Gravel from construction sites or roadworks
- Debris falling from lorries travelling at high speed
- Small rocks during bad weather
Why Small Chips Become Big Problems
Here’s what many drivers don’t realise: stone chip damage weakens the structural integrity of your windscreen, reducing its ability to withstand future impacts. Your windscreen isn’t just there to keep the wind out – it’s a crucial safety feature that supports your car’s roof and helps airbags work properly.
When you leave stone chip damage untreated, several things can make it worse:
- Temperature changes: Hot and cold weather make the glass expand and contract
- Road vibrations: Every bump and pothole puts stress on the damaged area
- Car washes: High-pressure water can force dirt into the chip
- Normal driving: The constant movement gradually spreads the damage
What starts as a small impact can quickly turn into a large crack across the windscreen, especially with unavoidable jolts while driving. Unlike car paintwork damage that stays on the surface, stone chip damage goes deeper into the glass structure.
The Types of Damage You Might See
Understanding the different types of stone chip damage helps you know how urgent repairs are:
Bullseye chips look like a circular target with a centre point. These are usually repairable if caught early, but if left untreated, dirt and debris can build up in the damaged area, making repairs much harder.
Star breaks have a central impact point with several cracks spreading outwards like a star. These need immediate attention because the cracks can spread rapidly.
Combination breaks mix different types of damage and are often the trickiest to repair properly.
Legal Requirements You Need to Know
The UK has strict rules about windscreen damage, and ignorance isn’t an excuse. According to official government regulations, in Zone A (the area directly in front of the steering wheel), damage can’t exceed 10mm in diameter. In other areas of the windscreen, the limit is 40mm.
If you’re caught driving with damage that exceeds these limits, you could face:
- Three penalty points on your licence
- A fine
- A prohibition notice preventing you from driving the vehicle
Even worse, if you have an accident while driving with a damaged windscreen, you could be held responsible and face more serious charges.
When to Repair vs Replace
The key is acting quickly with professional stone chip repair. Most minor stone chip damage that doesn’t exceed 40mm in diameter can be easily fixed, but only if proper attention is given on time.
Good candidates for stone chip repair:
- Chips smaller than a £1 coin
- Damage outside the driver’s main line of sight
- Fresh chips without dirt contamination
- Single impact points without spreading cracks
When you need a replacement:
- Large cracks across the windscreen
- Multiple chips in the driver’s vision area
- Damage that goes through multiple layers of glass
- Chips that have been contaminated with dirt and debris
Just like other car damage, quick action saves money. A simple car scratch repair to your car paintwork is always cheaper when done promptly, and the same applies to windscreen damage.
How We Handle Your Insurance Claim
At Infiniti Motor Group, we’re fully approved by all major insurance companies, which means we can handle the entire claims process for you. Our experienced team works directly with your insurer to make sure everything runs smoothly.
We understand that dealing with car damage is stressful enough without worrying about paperwork and phone calls. That’s why we take care of all the admin work, leaving you free to get on with your day.
Prevention Tips That Actually Work
While you can’t eliminate stone chip damage risk entirely, these simple steps can reduce your chances:
- Keep your distance from large vehicles, especially at high speed on motorways
- Slow down when following gravel trucks or construction vehicles
- Avoid driving directly behind other cars on loose road surfaces
- Choose your route carefully during roadworks
- Replace worn wipers regularly to prevent scratches from debris on your car’s paintwork and windscreen
Remember, stone chip damage often happens at high speed, so the faster you’re going, the more severe the impact will be. Prevention works for all vehicle damage – whether it’s stone chips or car scratch repair issues.
The Cost of Waiting
Here’s the reality: a quick stone chip repair might cost around £50-100 and take 30 minutes. A full windscreen replacement can cost £300-800 and take several hours. When left untreated, small stone chip damage can lead to major problems and high costs.
Even if your insurance covers windscreen replacement, you’ll still need to pay your excess, and the process takes much longer than a simple stone chip repair. Don’t risk trying repair kits from the shops – professional stone chip repair ensures the job is done right first time.
Why Choose Professional Stone Chip Repair Over DIY
While DIY repair kits exist, professional stone chip repair is always the safer choice. You might be tempted to try repair kits from the shops, but these often provide temporary fixes that can fail when you need them most.
At Infiniti Motor Group in Barking, our certified technicians use manufacturer-approved repair methods and state-of-the-art equipment. Unlike basic repair kits, we guarantee our work and provide warranty coverage, giving you complete peace of mind.
Our team can also assess whether stone chip repair is possible or if replacement is necessary, potentially saving you money and ensuring your safety. When it comes to stone chip damage, professional expertise matters more than trying to save a few pounds with repair kits.
Don’t Wait – Act Today
Stone chip damage is one of those problems that only gets worse with time. What might be a quick, affordable repair today could become an expensive replacement tomorrow.
If you’ve noticed any chips or cracks in your windscreen, don’t gamble with your safety or your wallet. Contact Infiniti Motor Group today for a free assessment. We’ll tell you honestly whether the damage can be repaired or if replacement is necessary.
Remember, we handle all insurance claims and provide courtesy cars to keep you mobile during repairs. Our expert technicians in Barking are ready to get you back on the road safely and quickly.
The next time you hear that “ping” on your windscreen, you’ll know exactly what to do – and why speed matters.
