Windshield Scratch Repair

Last modified: 23/09/2022 13:23:38

1. Inspect the windshield for repair eligibility. See Windshield And Roof Glass Repair And Replacement Guidelines .
2. Use IPA wipes to clean the windshield thoroughly.
3. Inspect the glass scratch removal kit, ensure all tools are present, and then gather shop tools and PPE.

   Tip: Use of the following tool(s) is recommended:

   • Fender cover
   • Glass scratch removal kit
   • Step stool

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

4. Fill the water feed bottle.
   NOTE: Stop at the fill line.

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5. Connect the water feed tube, and then pressurize the water feed bottle.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

6. Install the polishing disk on the backer pad.
   NOTE: Align the polishing disk hole with the backer pad hole.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

7. Install the backer pad on the Gforce Max tool.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

8. Use a wire brush to open the polishing disk pores, position finger over the backer pad water dispensing hole, and then activate the water feed button to moisten the polishing disk.

   Tip: Use of the following tool(s) is recommended:

   • Wire brush

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

9. Apply a small amount of polishing compound to the moistened polishing disk, and then scrape the compound into the disk thoroughly.
   NOTE: Do not leave compound on the surface of the disk.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

   Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

10. Align the scratch in the center of the splash guard, and then install the splash guard on the windshield.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

11. Use the suction cup holder to install the water feed bottle on the vehicle.
    NOTE: Position the water feed bottle vertically near the repair area.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

12. Place the fender cover on the hood, and then position the step stool near the vehicle as necessary to maintain a comfortable position when applying direct downward pressure.
    CAUTION: Keep the disk flat on the glass and battle fatigue during polishing.

    Tip: Use of the following tool(s) is recommended:

    • Fender cover
    • Step stool
13. Polish the windshield in the direction of the scratch as follows:
    1. Grip the Gforce Max tool with both hands.
    2. Place the polishing disk flat on the glass.
    3. Pull the trigger fully, and then apply moderate downward pressure to create friction and heat.
    4. Move briskly over the damaged area in a circular motion.
    5. Press the water feed button to release more compound as needed.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

14. Stop halfway through the repair and check the glass temperature.
    NOTE: Laminated glass temperature should be between 115 to 150 degrees F.

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15. Re-pressurize the water feed bottle, and then repeat step  13 to finish polishing the windshield in the direction of the scratch.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

16. Use water and a paper towel to clean the glass, inspect the inside of the glass for any clouding caused by residual polishing compound, and then inspect the outside of the glass for full scratch repair.
    NOTE: Do not use IPA wipes to clean the glass.

    Tip: Use of the following tool(s) is recommended:

    • Flashlight LED

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

17. Remove the polishing disk and backer pad from the Gforce Max tool.
    CAUTION: Keep items clean and stored in a clean container to avoid contamination and damage to glass during next use.
    NOTE: If necessary, counter hold the backer pad with the glass scratch removal kit wrench.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

18. Disconnect the water feed tube, and then drain the water from the feed bottle.
    NOTE: Store all items in the glass scratch removal kit.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.

    Courtesy of TESLA, INC.