A broken window on the family minivan is the kind of problem that needs a plan: the glass has to be cleaned up safely, the van should not be left open to the weather and the right replacement has to be identified. This page covers minivan glass in general terms and does not offer repair.
The glass on a minivan
Minivans carry a lot of glass in several shapes:
- The windshield, which can be repaired or replaced depending on the damage
- Sliding door and side windows
- Quarter and vent glass
- The large rear window, often with a defroster grid and a wiper opening
The windshield is laminated glass, which cracks but holds together. Side and rear windows are usually tempered glass, which crumbles into small pieces when it breaks and cannot be repaired.
Repair or replacement
A small chip or short crack in the windshield can sometimes be repaired; see rock chip and crack repair. When the damage is large or in the driver's view, or when a side or rear window has shattered, replacement is the answer, as described in windshield replacement and the guide to side window glass.
After a window shatters
Tempered glass leaves tiny fragments in seats, door cavities and carpeting, which matters with car seats and children. Cover the opening with heavy plastic and tape to keep out rain, avoid running the sliding door on a broken track and ask any provider whether cleanup and vacuuming are included. Photograph the damage for your insurer before cleaning.
Questions to ask
- Is the exact glass for my model and year available, and how long will it take to arrive?
- Does the price include cleanup of broken glass inside the door and cabin?
- How is the new glass sealed, and how long should I wait before washing the van?
For costs and claims, see replacement costs and insurance claims for glass.