Does a Cracked Windshield Affect Your Safety Certification in Ontario?
If you’re planning to sell your car, transfer ownership, or register a vehicle in Ontario, you’ll need a Safety Standards Certificate (SSC). But what if your windshield has a crack or chip? Will that cause you to fail the inspection?
Ontario has specific safety regulations for windshields, and understanding them can save you time, money, and hassle. In this guide, we’ll explain whether a cracked windshield will pass a safety inspection, what happens if you fail, and how to fix your windshield before your test.
Ontario Windshield Safety Standards: What the Law Says
Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act and Motor Vehicle Inspection Station (MVIS) guidelines set the rules for vehicle safety inspections. When it comes to windshields, the key points include:
- The windshield must be structurally sound and not obstruct the driver’s view.
- Minor cracks or chips may pass, but only if they do not interfere with visibility.
- Large cracks or spidering damage will fail if they weaken the windshield or block the driver’s line of sight.
- The windshield must be securely mounted with no risk of detachment.
A small chip on the passenger side may be acceptable, but any damage that affects the driver’s visibility is likely to result in a failed inspection.
Will a Small Chip or Crack Fail a Safety Inspection?
Not all windshield damage results in failure. Here’s a breakdown:
Windshield Damage That Will Likely Pass:
- Tiny rock chips (under 6mm) that are not spreading.
- Small cracks (under 50mm) that do not obstruct the driver’s vision.
- Cracks or chips outside the driver’s direct line of sight that do not weaken the glass.
Windshield Damage That Will Fail:
- Long cracks (over 50mm) anywhere on the windshield.
- Starburst or spider cracks that may spread.
- Damage that distorts visibility, such as in front of the driver.
- Edge cracks that weaken the structural integrity of the windshield.
If you are unsure, a quick professional assessment can help determine if your windshield is safe for inspection.
What Happens If Your Windshield Fails a Safety Test?
If your windshield does not meet Ontario’s safety standards, you will not receive your Safety Standards Certificate (SSC). Without this certificate, you cannot legally:
- Transfer ownership of a used vehicle.
- Register a vehicle in Ontario.
- Get new license plates.
A failed inspection means you will need to repair or replace the windshield before reattempting the safety certification test.
Repair or Replace? How to Fix a Windshield Before an Inspection
If your windshield has a small chip or crack, repairing it may be a cost-effective solution. However, if the damage is severe, replacement may be required.
When to Repair:
- The chip is smaller than a dime and not spreading.
- A crack is under 50mm and outside the driver’s field of view.
- The windshield is structurally intact with no loose glass.
When to Replace:
- The crack is longer than 50mm or branching.
- Damage is spreading or worsening over time.
- The crack or chip is in the driver’s direct line of sight.
- There are multiple cracks weakening the glass.
A professional windshield assessment can confirm whether a repair is enough or if a full replacement is necessary.
Ontario’s Trusted Auto Glass Experts: How Auto Glass Legend Can Help
At Auto Glass Legend, we help drivers pass their Ontario Safety Standards Certification by ensuring windshields meet all legal requirements.
Why Choose Auto Glass Legend?
- Same-Day Windshield Repair & Replacement – Fast service to get you back on the road.
- 24/7 Mobile Service – We come to your home, work, or wherever you need.
- Certified Technicians – Professional service that meets Ontario’s safety standards.
- Insurance Claim Assistance – We help handle your insurance paperwork.
- Lifetime Warranty on labour – Guaranteed quality on all windshield replacements.
If your windshield is cracked and you need it repaired before a safety inspection, we can help.
Get Your Windshield Ready for Inspection
A cracked windshield may or may not pass a safety inspection in Ontario, depending on its location, size, and severity. If you’re preparing for a safety test, it’s best to repair or replace your windshield ahead of time to avoid delays or failed inspections.
Need a windshield repair or replacement before your safety inspection?
Contact Auto Glass Legend today for fast, professional service.
Serving Mississauga, Vaughan, Etobicoke, Georgetown, Acton, Halton Hills, Milton, Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Grimsby, St. Catharines, Smithville, Binbrook, Mount Hope.
Call now: +1 905-333-9909 / +1 416-839-7804
Email: autoglasslegend@gmail.com
Visit: AutoGlassLegend.ca
