Don't overlook a minor chip or crack in your vehicle's windshield—get it repaired. The non-profit Car Care Council notes that putting off a small crack today can create much bigger headaches down the road.

"Windshield damage can occur without warning and should be repaired promptly," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "An ignored chip or crack can spread into a bigger one, leading to a more expensive windshield replacement. On top of that, drivers may face tickets and fines when a crack blocks their view."

Once a driver spots an issue with the windshield, waiting to fix it is a mistake. A tiny chip or crack can spread, and if something like a rock, golf ball or baseball strikes the glass, the damage may worsen fast—undermining safety and calling for a complete windshield replacement.

"Fixing a small chip or crack is affordable, simple and fast, and the owner's insurance might even cover the work," said White. "Skipping a windshield repair is like skipping dental cleanings and winding up with cavities or gum disease. A little routine care lets you dodge a far larger and costlier problem."

Source: Car Care Council