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Guides30 Jul 20261 min read

What "safe drive-away time" really means

The adhesive that holds your windscreen needs time to cure. Why we tell you exactly when it is safe to drive.

Article
Published
30 July 2026
Reading time
1 min read
Topic
Guides

After a windscreen is replaced, you should not drive straight away. The adhesive that holds the glass in place needs time to cure, and that is why we tell you exactly when it is safe to drive.

Why the adhesive needs time

A windscreen is bonded to the car's body, and it is part of its structure. Until the adhesive has cured enough, the bond is not at full strength.

What affects the wait

  • The adhesive used for your car.
  • The temperature and the humidity on the day.
  • The type of car and the glass fitted.

What we do

Before we leave, we tell you the safe drive-away time for your car on that day. Please follow it. If you have to move the car sooner, tell us so we can advise you.

Until then

  • Do not slam the doors.
  • Leave any tape on the glass until we tell you it can come off.
  • Avoid a car wash for the first few days, unless we say otherwise.

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