Scratched windshield may not pass inspection Pennsylvania inspection

I would ask the technician that is going to do the inspection. PA state law says that you need to replace the windshield if there is anything obstructing the view. This can be cracks, rock chips in view path of the driver, and scratches.

The picture did not attach so if you can try again, that will help.

However, PA state inspectors are each independent from one another so if one fails something that is a judgment call then another may not. However, most all of them are going to err on the side of caution because if you get pulled over and a cop finds this, they can pull the license of the technician that did the inspection and passed it if they think it fails.

Yeah. I have seen those before. Normally they are caused by worn wiper blades. The only reason I would fail it for those is if when looking out the windshield, it would catch your eye. This can be distracting. I would stop in a few shops and ask the state inspector if they would fail it for that. Most will look quickly and give you their opinion.

Hi,

I am licensed to perform PA state safety and emission inspections. There is a critical view area on the windshield that can not be damaged.

The critical area is on the driver's side of the vehicle directly in the driver's normal line of vision†8 1/2 inches wide and 5 1/2 inches high. Cracks within this area area considered illegal. Scratches may be different. However, anything that obstructs the driver's vision in that area should fail safety inspection.

Here is a list of things not acceptable:

Glass with shatters or exposed sharp edges is not allowed
Any cracks or chips must not be directly in driver’s vision
Any large cracks or discoloration which interferes with clear view of the road is illegal on all windows
Areas of etching other than those required are not permitted

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Also, here are a few other things most people don't know. Note: This is right from the manual.

Other laws and regulations:
Obstructed windshield regulations: No sign, poster, or other non-transparent material is allowed on windshield which can impair driver’s view of the road.

Replacement windshields: Replacement windshield glass must be of the same kind and quality, and any repairs should restore vehicle to its original state.

Windshield wipers: Vehicles must be equipped with windshield wipers in good working conditions. Cracks which prevent wipers from operating correctly may be illegal.

If possible, upload a pic. If the scratches are not in the "Critical View" area, you should be okay.

Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

Is that all on the passenger side?

Joe

Hi,

I have to be honest, I wouldn't fail that. First, it appears to be above the state's measurements and it's really not a distraction that would hinder your vision. It's likely from a bad wiper blade.

It looks like the inspection sticker is good until 10/2021. Is that correct?

Let me know if I can help or if you have other questions.

Joe

Not sure where you are located, but I feel you should be able to find someone that would do it.

Can you tell me this. Are the marks in what I described and the critical view area?

Joe

Hi,

I see the scratches and they appear to only be on the passenger side of the vehicle. If that is the case, it will pass. Also, you have 30 days to have the vehicle re-inspected for repairs and the shop shouldn't charge you for another inspection.

Am I correct that it is on the passenger side of the windshield?

Joe

Hi,

The idea that you have 30 days for a reinspection is state regulated and not the shop. However, I understand why you don't want to go. The thing is, the scratches are not in the critical view area of the windshield. Thus, it should pass.

Let me know if I can help.

Joe

Sounds good. A second (or third) opinion is sometimes the best idea. Let us know what happens when it is resolved. Thanks

Hi,

You are very welcome. The wiper blades are an easy fix. I'm glad to hear you got it taken care of.

Please feel free to come back anytime in the future if you have questions or need help.

Take care,
Joe

That is great. Glad it worked out for you. Sounds like the other place was looking for a little extra work. Maybe they were a little slow that day.

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