A cracked or damaged windshield on your Honda Accord Touring is more than just an eyesore; it’s a safety hazard. This guide will walk you through exactly how to replace Honda Accord Touring windshield, whether you’re considering a DIY approach or hiring a professional.
Understanding the process helps you make an informed decision and ensures the job is done correctly. A proper installation is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of your vehicle and the functionality of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
How To Replace Honda Accord Touring Windshield
Replacing the windshield on a modern car like the Accord Touring is a complex task. It involves specialized tools, adhesives, and often, recalibrating cameras and sensors. We’ll cover everything you need to know.
Why a Proper Windshield Replacement Matters
Your windshield provides up to 30% of your vehicle’s structural strength, especially in a rollover accident. It also acts as a backstop for the passenger-side airbag.
For the Accord Touring, the windshield is integral to the Honda Sensing® suite. The camera module mounted near the rearview mirror is responsible for functions like:
* Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS)
* Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
* Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
* Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
A poorly installed windshield or one with optical distortions can misalign these systems, making them ineffective or even dangerous.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Attempting this job requires specific supplies. Here’s a basic list:
* New OEM or OEE Windshield: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) is made by Honda’s supplier. OEE (Original Equipment Equivalent) meets the same specs. Aftermarket options exist but may vary in quality.
* Urethane Windshield Adhesive: Specifically designed for automotive glass. The correct primer and activator are also needed.
* Windshield Removal Tool (Cold Knife/Piano Wire): To cut through the old adhesive.
* Razor Blades and Scrapers: For cleaning the pinch weld.
* Glass Suction Cup Handles: For safe removal and installation.
* Trim Removal Tools: To safely remove interior pillars and the rearview mirror.
* Safety Gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and a respirator mask.
* Calibration Targets and Software: For ADAS recalibration (often dealer or specialist-only tools).
Step-by-Step Removal of the Old Windshield
Warning: This process requires patience and precision. One mistake can damage the body of your car or the new glass.
1. Prepare Your Workspace. Park on a level, clean surface, ideally indoors or in perfect weather. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to disable airbags.
2. Remove Interior Trim. Carefully remove the A-pillar covers, the overhead console/cover, and the rearview mirror. Unplug any electrical connections gently.
3. Detach the Windshield Cowl. Open the hood and remove the plastic cowl panel at the base of the windshield wipers. You’ll need to remove the wiper arms as well.
4. Cut the Urethane Adhesive. From inside the vehicle, use your cold knife or piano wire tool to carefully cut through the adhesive bonding the glass to the frame. Work slowly and evenly around the entire perimeter.
5. Remove the Windshield. With the adhesive cut, use the suction cup handles to gently lift the windshield out. Have an assistant help you; it’s large and awkward.
Preparing the Pinch Weld Frame
This step is where most failures occur. A clean, proper surface is non-negotiable.
* Scrape Off Old Adhesive: Using razor blades and scrapers, remove all old urethane from the vehicle’s pinch weld down to bare metal. Be careful not to scratch the paint.
* Clean Thoroughly: Wipe the entire area with a dedicated glass primer or alcohol-based cleaner. It must be free of dust, oil, and debris.
* Apply Primer: Apply the specific metal primer to the bare pinch weld areas. This ensures the new urethane bonds correctly. Let it dry as instructed.
* Dry Fit the New Glass: Before applying any adhesive, place the new windshield (using suction cups) onto the frame to check the fit. Ensure it sits flush and even all around.
Installing the New Windshield
1. Apply Adhesive Bead. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous, even bead of the new urethane adhesive to the windshield’s perimeter. The bead size and pattern are crucial—follow the adhesive manufacturer’s and Honda’s guidelines. A common shape is a “high-low” bead.
2. Set the Glass. With the help of an assistant, carefully lift the windshield and set it onto the frame. Align it perfectly using the alignment marks or by ensuring equal gaps all around. Press down firmly to create a good initial seal.
3. Secure and Clean. Use strips of strong painter’s tape from the glass to the car body to hold the windshield in position. Do not disturb the vehicle for the time specified by the adhesive (usually several hours). Clean any excess urethane that oozes out with a plastic tool and appropriate cleaner.
The Critical Step: ADAS Recalibration
For your Honda Accord Touring, the job is not complete after the glass is installed. The camera for Honda Sensing® must be recalibrated.
* Static Calibration: This is done in a controlled environment using precise targets and alignment tools. It requires specialized equipment and a level floor.
* Dynamic Calibration: This involves driving the vehicle at a certain speed under specific conditions (e.g., clear lane markings) to allow the system to self-calibrate.
Important: Many modern vehicles require both static and dynamic calibration after a windshield replacement. Failure to do this can leave your safety systems inoperative. This step often makes professional installation the wisest choice.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: Making the Choice
Consider these factors before deciding:
DIY Pros:
* Can be less expensive upfront (labor cost savings).
* Personal satisfaction from completing a complex job.
DIY Cons:
* High risk of breaking the new windshield during installation.
* Risk of improper adhesion, leading to leaks, wind noise, or safety failure.
* No access to professional calibration tools, rendering Honda Sensing® useless.
* Potential to void warranties related to corrosion or safety systems.
Professional Pros:
* Expertise and guarantee of a proper, water-tight seal.
* Access to OEM/OEE glass and correct adhesives.
* Mandatory ADAS recalibration performed correctly.
* Most offer a nationwide warranty on their work.
* Saves you significant time and physical effort.
Professional Cons:
* Higher upfront cost, though often covered by insurance.
Working With Your Insurance Company
Comprehensive auto insurance typically covers windshield replacement, often with a low deductible or even a zero-deductible option depending on your state.
1. Contact Your Insurer. Report the damage and inquire about your coverage and approved glass repair shops.
2. Choose a Qualified Installer. You are usually not required to use the insurer’s suggested shop. Choose a installer certified by auto glass groups like Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC).
3. Ask About Calibration. Confirm with both the insurer and the shop that ADAS recalibration is included in the claim. Don’t assume it is.
Post-Installation Care and Checks
After the windshield is replaced, follow these tips:
* Curing Time: Adhesive needs time to reach full strength. Avoid car washes and heavy rain for at least 12-24 hours. Don’t slam the doors for a day or two.
* Test for Leaks: After the curing period, gently spray water around the edges of the windshield from inside the engine bay. Check the interior for any moisture.
* Check for Distortions: Look through the new glass, especially from the driver’s seat, for any optical warping that could cause dizziness.
* Verify Systems: Test your Honda Sensing® features on a safe, clear road to ensure they are functioning properly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much does a Honda Accord Touring windshield replacement cost?
A: Costs vary widely. An aftermarket glass without calibration might start around $400. An OEM windshield with professional installation and full ADAS recalibration can cost $1,200 or more. Always get a detailed quote.
Q: Can I just repair the crack instead of replacing it?
A: Small chips (smaller than a quarter) can often be repaired. However, long cracks, especially those in the driver’s sight line or reaching the edge, usually require a full replacement for safety reasons.
Q: How long does the whole replacement process take?
A: A professional shop typically needs 2-4 hours for the physical replacement, plus additional time for calibration and adhesive curing. Plan to be without your vehicle for half a day.
Q: Is it safe to drive with a cracked windshield before I get it fixed?
A: It’s not recommended. A crack compromises structural strength and can impair vision. Temperature changes or road vibrations can cause it to spread rapidly, making it unsafe.
Q: What happens if I don’t recalibrate the ADAS system?
A: Systems like automatic emergency braking or lane keep assist may not work, may give false warnings, or may engage incorrectly. This creates a major safety risk for you and others on the road.
Q: Do all shops know how to handle ADAS calibration?
A: No, they do not. Always ask specifically if they have the equipment and certification to recalibrate Honda Sensing® systems. It’s a specialized service.
Replacing the windshield on your Honda Accord Touring is a significant procedure due to its role in vehicle safety and technology. While a DIY project is technically possible for the very experienced, the complexities of the adhesive process and the absolute necessity of ADAS recalibration make a professional installation the most reliable and safest choice for most owners. By understanding the steps involved, you can ensure the job is done right, protecting your investment and, most importantly, your safety on the road.