Leaking windshield

[Shellfish]

I have a 2000 SR5 that has a small water leak at the top left part of the wind shield, I Checked with a local glass shop they said they could try to seal it but if it don't work they would have to remove the wind shield, and the bad thing was most of the time it breaks does this sound right it's the first 4Runner I have had just don't under stand why it breaks most of the time,just want to heard your thoughts on this thanks.

 

[stir_fry_boy]

I have a 2000 SR5 that has a small water leak at the top left part of the wind shield, I Checked with a local glass shop they said they could try to seal it but if it don't work they would have to remove the wind shield, and the bad thing was most of the time it breaks does this sound right it's the first 4Runner I have had just don't under stand why it breaks most of the time,just want to heard your thoughts on this thanks.

That's correct. Mine was leaking after 100,000 miles and many repaired rock chips. The guy that did mine had 30+ years experience doing windshields and told me that rarely they can fix the leak without removing the windshield, and if they do remove the windshield, it breaks most of the time. Turned out to be rusted and leaking around the sealant. He ended up having to replace it because there was no way to get the sealant in without removing the windshield. It was for the best because he sanded the rust to bare metal, painted it, and put a new windshield in it for $170 cash.

 

[TXLX1]

Definitely could break if removed. If it's leaking, likely rust. Best bet is to remove it ASAP and address if you care to keep the vehicle.

 

[1999LTD]

Windshields leak with age. As far as the breaking, that happens with EVERY windshield. It's very common. It'd be a shame if you got too big of a rock chip and had to file a free, no-deductible glass claim...

 

[nc-grayson]

I'm going through the same problem. So wish my state had free windshield replacement law.

 

[nissanh]

Ok, here is an easy fix.

Get transparent silicon and apply a tiny layer between the rubber weather seal and the paint (roof) and another layer between the glass and the rubber weather seal. Do this on top and sides. You should be fine with this.

 

[nail bender]

A good auto glass shop should be able to fix the leak. but can be trickey sometimes. if it is still the oem windshield or if it was replaced properly it is adhered to the pinchweld with urethane. a product specific for windsheilds and other stationary windows in autos. urethane has been used for this for at least 25 years. the manufacturer wants the windshield to stay in in the event of a roll over and needs to stay in in the event of an airbag deployment. it aint like the old days in the early 70's when windsheilds were held in with a rubber gasket or a butyl tape kit. that is why it is very difficult to get one out without breaking it. most windsheilds can be replaced for less than $200 so unless yours is perfect no pitting or chips I would just get it replaced by a reputable shop. stay away from any attempts to use silocone to stop the leak. silocone is good for some things but seems to be one of the most misused substances on the planet in my opinion.

 

[potomacduck]

Mine was pitted after many years of use...I had it replaced.

A new windshield was the best $200 I ever spent !

.

 

[Buckaroo]

I had a replacement windshield installed about 12 years ago. It started leaking about 2 years ago and had a lifetime warranty....I still had the receipt, took it back, they removed it and put in a new gasket.....all good for the last two years.

Buckaroo

 

[Shellfish]

Thanks for all the replys I dropped it off at the glass shop tonight.