Lucky Dog Auto, Author at Lucky Dog Auto Glass

Car Colors: Most and Least Popular

Posted on June 23, 2022June 23, 2022 by Lucky Dog Auto

Man Choosing Color Of His Car With Color Sampler.

When buying a new car, how important is car color? Does this factor into your decision at all? Perhaps you’re curious to know what car colors are popular these days, and which ones aren’t so high in demand? You came to the right place—we’ve got the facts!

PPG released its annual automotive color popularity report, revealing that white is (still) the most popular automobile color chosen by new-car buyers today. In fact, white is chosen by 35 percent of shoppers—more than any other color combined!

After white, buyers tend to choose drabber colors—or less flashy colors—including grey, silver, and black. As such, the next time you’re on a busy road or highway, take a look around. Chances are high that you’ll see fewer blue, green, gold, and red colors. You can even take a quick inventory of a busy parking lot to observe the most and least popular car colors.

Additionally, PPG’s report showed other interesting information, like two-toned colored cars are making a comeback. Blue is also a consistent choice throughout North America. Yet, today, the color tint tends to lean more towards a slate color, which is really just gray. Green is trying to make a slight comeback, too.

Outside of North America, especially in South America, Asia, and Europe, there are even less colorful automobiles.

Of course, car color is extremely subjective. Purchasing a car is a big, expensive investment, and you should choose the color you want—not what is or isn’t popular. That being said, you may have to wait in order to get your favorite car color. Finding it on the lot is often difficult.

Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass Today!

Regardless of car color, if you could benefit from any sort of auto glass repair or replacement, Lucky Dog Auto Glass is here for you! You can rely on our skilled and professional team to take care of your glass needs—big or small. Contact us today at (253) 569-9403 to schedule a free estimate. We look forward to working with you.

Can Summer Heat Crack Your Windshield?

Posted on May 19, 2022May 19, 2022 by Lucky Dog Auto

Most people are eager for summer to arrive! No school, warmer weather, sunny days . . .Yet, can summer, more specifically, summer heat, be damaging to your vehicle? The short answer: Yes.

You already know that heat can melt certain items left unattended in your car, as well as make leather interior hot and uncomfortable. Unfortunately, the summer heat can do more than that; it can also damage your car’s windshield.

Windshields are made up of two pieces of glass, with a thin layer of vinyl placed between them. If you experience a minor crack, chip, or scratch, only the first layer of glass is likely to be damaged, not the second. However, as the temperatures increase throughout spring and summer, getting warmer, your vehicle’s interior will get warmer, too. This extra heat puts pressure on your windshield from the inside out, creating stress on your windshield.

When your windshield is under this type of stress, even the smallest cracks, chips, and scratches are prone to becoming more severe. If this occurs, you may have to replace the whole windshield, instead of just having the imperfection fixed.

Fixing a Cracked Windshield

Regardless of the size of the crack, chip, or scratch, it’s dangerous to drive around with a damaged windshield. Doing so can obstruct your vision and distract you from the road. And, as mentioned above, the damage can increase in the heat. As such, it’s recommended that you get your windshield fixed as soon as possible.

Remember, if the damage is small (often less than the size of a quarter), you may not need a windshield replacement. The bigger the damage, the more likely you will require a whole new windshield.

It’s best to seek repair/replacement before those hot, summer months arrive. If you are unable to do so, follow these tips until you can meet with an auto glass professional:

Park in the shade
Avoid blasting the air conditioner in a hot car
Open the doors/windows to let the heat escape
Don’t slam your car doors

When you can make an appointment with an auto glass professional, call Lucky Dog Auto Glass in Kent, WA!

Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass Today!

When it comes to your auto glass needs, you can always rely on Lucky Dog Auto Glass! Contact our skilled and professional team today at (253) 569-9403. We look forward to hearing from you and repairing or replacing your car’s windshield.

How to Avoid Broken Car Windows

Posted on April 18, 2022April 16, 2022 by Lucky Dog Auto

Feelings of anger, violation, and confusion often arise after discovering the windows have been busted out of your automobile and your personal belongings are gone, stolen. Unfortunately, “smash and grabs” are becoming more and more common. However, it may be possible to prevent your vehicle from getting broken into by taking a few extra precautions.

At Lucky Dog Auto Glass in Kent WA, we’ve put together a list of tips for you to consider trying. Take a look!

Keep All Valuables Hidden/Out of Sight

You already know that if you have valuables in your vehicle, it’s necessary to keep them out of plain sight. Yet, some still make the careless mistake of leaving items like wallets, purses, cell phones, and shopping bags out in the open and unguarded. To avoid broken windows and stolen possessions, make sure to lock up anything of importance in the trunk or glove box of your car, or take these objects out of the automobile with you.

Don’t Leave Your Car Running and Unattended

We’re all guilty of having left our car running and unattended. This often occurs at a gas station or convenience store, when the errand seems quick, so quick, that turning the vehicle off doesn’t feel necessary. However, it’s impossible to gauge if or when a thief is waiting and watching. Leaving your automobile running and unattended puts you at risk of becoming a victim of car theft. Additionally, commercial drivers who leave their delivery vehicles running and unattended are at risk of losing not only the vehicle but the company’s tools and inventory. Bottom line: Never leave your car running and unattended, not even for a second.

Be Mindful of Your Vehicle Purchase

If you want to be extremely safe, pay attention to the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s Hot Wheels list. This is a yearly list of the 10 most stolen vehicles in America. You can benefit from this information by purchasing an automobile, not on the list, an automobile that is less flashy and not as commonly stolen. Further, when you do buy a new vehicle, consider adding anti-theft devices or tracking systems.

Lucky Dog Auto Glass Is Here for You!

While you can take every available precaution to keep your vehicle safe, some things are simply out of your control. In short, life happens. When life happens, or, more specifically, when you need auto glass replacement, you can always rely on Lucky Dog Auto Glass in Kent WA.

Contact our skilled and professional team today to learn how we can help you! Just call (253) 569-9403. We look forward to hearing from you.

What Do I Do When My Car Windows Won’t Go Up?

Posted on April 12, 2022April 12, 2022 by Lucky Dog Auto

Have you ever experienced trouble with your car windows? Specifically, have you had difficulty getting your car windows to go up? This can be a frustrating inconvenience—but the skilled and experienced team at Lucky Dog Auto Glass is here to help you solve the issue.

What Do I Do When My Car Windows Wont Go Up

For starters, it’s important to note that if you have automatic windows (and you probably do), the problem is likely associated with one of the following:

Damaged or broken regulator
Attachments broken off or disconnected from glass
Wiring
Faulty Switches

As such, it may be necessary to visit an auto glass specialist. However, you can try to remedy the complication yourself with one of the following solutions:

Check the child safety locks.
Use your owner’s manual to check the fuses. A blown fuse may be the culprit and can be replaced.
Check to see if the motor has malfunctioned by pressing the window button up and down while listening for noises coming from the inside of the door.
Check to see if the switch is bad by pressing the window button and watching the gauges on the dash for the slightest leap.
Check to see if the local switch on the passenger or rear door isn’t working by using the master button on the driver’s side door.

Next, try a troubleshooting method for a temporary fix. These troubleshooting methods include palming the glass.

With the car door open, sandwich the window between the palms of your hands and use gradual pressure to press the window up. You will need to have someone press and hold the window button while doing this.

Again, these are only methods for a temporary fix, ways to manipulate the window back into place until you can have it evaluated by a professional.

Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass Today!

If you are having trouble getting your windows to go up, contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass today! You can rely on us for complete satisfaction—and we even offer free estimates! Give us a call now at (253) 569-9403. We look forward to hearing from you.

How to Maintain Your Car’s Power Windows

Posted on April 5, 2022April 5, 2022 by Lucky Dog Auto

Your car likely has power windows, making your driving experience easier and more convenient. Before technology, you had to use a lever to manually roll down—and up—your windows. Unfortunately, there is a downside to this advancement: Power window technology is at high risk for damage.

However, to help you maintain the power window technology in your vehicle, the team at Lucky Dog Auto Glass in Kent, WA has put together a list of tips for you. Take a look!

Don’t Overuse the Buttons

It’s important to refrain from excessively using the power window buttons. Of course, use it to lower your window(s) when you want fresh air, and then raise it again once you’re done. Yet, to make your power windows more durable and last longer, only use them as needed. If used continuously, the potential for damage will increase.

Keep the Window Glass Clean

Cleaning the window glass regularly can help your vehicle’s power windows last longer. If dirt or particles sit on the windows for long periods and then get inside the mechanism, a jam can occur. Keeping the window glass clean will not only help you avoid jams but can also prevent other types of damage, including rust. Make sure to use an appropriate glass cleaner and rag.

Don’t Ignore the Condition of the Rubber

Just like it’s necessary to keep the window glass clean, it’s also imperative to ensure the rubber around the windows is in good condition. Specifically, if this rubber starts to harden, consider replacing it, as this can cause trouble to your power windows and create scratches on the automobile. Additionally, the rubber can collect dirt and debris, which can also get inside the mechanism and cause a jam.

Use Your Power Windows

While it’s important to not overuse your windows, you still need to use them from time to time. If you don’t typically have passengers in the backseat, then the rear windows probably don’t get much attention. Power windows can become stuck if they’re not used for long periods. For the mechanical system to remain in good condition, it must be used. To avoid the windows becoming stuck, which can then lead to rust, use your power windows at least a few times a week.

Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass Today!

If you’re experiencing issues with your power windows, then contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass in Kent, WA now by calling (253) 569-9403! With decades of experience, our skilled, friendly, and professional team is here to assist you. You can also bring your vehicle to our shop for regular window maintenance. We provide free estimates and guarantee complete satisfaction—you have nothing to lose!

Be Safe for The Holidays: Tips for Rainy Weather Driving Safety

Posted on December 9, 2021December 9, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

Are you planning on traveling this holiday season? Unfortunately, the weather may not cooperate with your agenda. Specifically, rain can make driving difficult—even dangerous—as you set out to meet up with family and friends.

To help ensure you’re safe on the road, the team at Lucky Dog Auto Glass has put together a list of tips for rainy weather driving. Take a look!

#1 Always check your vehicle before leaving

Before you head out this holiday season, check your vehicle’s equipment. This includes headlights, tires, taillights, and windshield wipers. While you want these parts to work efficiently at all times, it’s even more important that they’re up to par during rainy weather.

#2 Don’t forget to use your windshield wipers

It seems like common sense, right? Use your windshield wipers in the rain. However, when it’s only lightly raining, many drivers forget to activate their wipers. With most automobiles, you can adjust the speed of your wiper blades—so, it doesn’t matter if there’s a sprinkle or heavy downpour, you can find a setting that works for your needs.

Additionally, there are products available for your windshield that can help avoid the collection of rainwater.

#3 Keep a safe, steady distance between cars

As you likely already know, stopping your vehicle in the rain can be difficult. Therefore, it’s best to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you in case there is sudden braking.

#4 When necessary, slow down

Try to never be in a hurry when it’s raining. In fact, in severe conditions, you should even consider driving slower than the posted speed limit. Again, wet roads are very dangerous; slowing down and stopping may take more time than usual and be more challenging. Of course, you can’t be held responsible for other drivers’ actions. Yet, if you’re driving slowly, then you may have more time to react accordingly.

#5 Avoid braking too much

Try to avoid braking too much. When you do need to brake, don’t slam on your brakes, as this could cause you to fishtail and hydroplane. Instead, try to slow your vehicle down gradually by taking your foot off the brake.

Further, don’t use cruise control. This will allow you to keep the focus on using both the gas and brake, which is necessary when driving during a rainstorm.

#6 If at all possible, wait to travel until the weather clears

It may not always be a possibility, but if you can, wait to travel until the weather clears or at least clams down. It’s important to feel comfortable behind the wheel, as nervous drivers are more prone to overcorrect their vehicles. Don’t put yourself or others in danger if driving in wet conditions isn’t fully necessary.

Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass Now!

If you notice a crack or chip in your windshield, contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass to take a look at it before you head out on the road this holiday season. Not only do we offer free estimates, but our skilled and professional team will make sure your windshield is safe and secure for unpredictable weather conditions. Call us now at (253) 569-9403.

Are There Different Types of Car Windshields?

Posted on November 24, 2021November 24, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

Rain And Light Sensor On The Windshield Of The Car

You most likely already know that your car windshield is important. Not only does it keep you safe from various weather elements, including rain, snow, and sleet—but it can also protect you when or if an accident occurs.

What you may not know is that three different types of windshield glass are used on automobiles: dealer glass, aftermarket glass, and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) glass.

So, in a word, yes, there are different types of car windshields.

Below, we’ve described the types of windshield glass to give you a better understanding of each one. Take a look!

Dealer Glass

Dealer glass comes directly from the dealership, the dealership that has been authorized by the manufacturer to work on your car. When you purchase dealer glass, the glass will be the same type of glass your car had when it came off the assembly line. This glass will also come stamped with the manufacturer’s logo.

Aftermarket Glass

This type of glass is manufactured by companies that deal directly with automobile manufacturers. Aftermarket glass is not Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) glass—more on this type of glass later—it is made, however, to the same specifications of OEM or dealer glass. Still, this glass is not considered to be original equipment and will not have the name of the manufacturer stamped on it.

This glass is considerably less expensive, though. Additionally, it offers the same thickness as the original glass in your car and provides the same guarantee as both OEM and dealer glass.

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Glass

Original Equipment Manufacturer, or OEM for short, verifies that parts are certified genuine manufacturer parts for your vehicle. When you get OEM glass for your windshield, it will be just like dealer glass, as OEM glass is the same type of glass your car had when it came off the assembly line but won’t have the make of the vehicle stamped on the glass.

While some glass brands may be different, when it comes to repairing or replacing your windshield, the specific type of glass doesn’t necessarily matter. If you have an older, collector’s car, then you may want to use glass to retain the automobile’s originality, making it more authentic.

Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass!

Are you in need of windshield repair or replacement? If so, contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass today! We are a family-owned business with decades of experience—we guarantee your complete satisfaction and safety.

To speak to a member of our friendly and professional team, contact us today by calling (253) 569-9403. We look forward to working with you.

Tips On How to Rain Proof Your Windshield

Posted on November 10, 2021November 10, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

The windshield of your vehicle is important. Not only does it help protect you and your passengers during an accident, but it also offers protection from debris and myriad weather elements.

One of those weather elements is rain. However, to prevent leaks and a wet interior, it’s necessary to rainproof your windshield—and the skilled and professional team at Lucky Dog Auto Glass are going to give you tips on how to do just that!

Specifically, there are three ways to effectively rainproof your windshield.

#1 Avoid Cheap Wiper Blades

You’ve heard the expression, “You get what you pay for.” Regarding wiper blades, you get what you pay for, so avoid purchasing cheaper ones. When choosing a blade, look for products that deliver even pressure, as they will make a clean sweep across your windshield and not leave streaks.

Additionally, don’t wait to replace the blades when they start to disintegrate, but before this occurs. You’ll need good wiper blades, especially during a heavy rainstorm.

#2 Find a Good Glass Treatment

It’s important to find a good glass treatment to apply to your windshield. There are a variety of products to choose from on the market today. The main factor to consider is the chemicals found in the glass treatment. Some chemicals will last longer than others.

Depending on your budget, you can find a glass treatment product that is more resistant to wiper wear down, lasting six to eight months, or one that lasts four to six weeks. Whichever you choose, just make sure not to use a product that will leave your windshield with a frosted glass appearance. This will make driving difficult and compromise your safety.

#3 Keep Your Windshield Clean

Before applying any kind of waterproofing product to your windshield, make sure that the windshield is clean. This will help guarantee adherence and performance. You can rinse the glass and clean it with an alcohol based window cleaner and paper towel—just make sure that you wash off all the glass cleaner when you’re done. Then, dry the windshield with a microfiber towel and apply the waterproofing product as directed.

Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass Today!

Is it time to replace your windshield? At Lucky Dog Auto Glass, we can help! Contact us today to schedule a free estimate! Just call (253) 569-9403. We look forward to hearing from you and making sure your vehicle is safe and secure every time you get behind the wheel.

Have You Inspected Your Windshield Lately?

Posted on August 30, 2021September 1, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

How important is the windshield of your car? In a word: very! In fact, your car’s windshield has many purposes—more than you probably know. That’s okay, though; we’ll help clue you in on some of them.

For example, your windshield protects you from all sorts of weather, including wind, water, and debris. Additionally, the windshield can help reduce crash injuries and could even save your life or the life of a passenger. The windshield can prevent outside objects from coming into the vehicle. Further, it plays a crucial role in front passenger airbag deployment and helps prevent the roof from collapsing in rollover accidents.

As you can see, the windshield is responsible for many imperative functions, meaning windshield damage of any kind can interfere with your safety. Therefore, it’s necessary to check the windshield for problems on a regular basis. You want to avoid cracks and damages, as they could lead to more severe and expensive problems.

Here are some tips to consider when checking your windshield:

Check the glass—both inside and out—for any type of crack or chip. The smaller the better, as small damages can often be repaired without requiring a windshield replacement.
Over time, micro-pits build-up, which can reduce vision when illuminated by oncoming headlights. The only way to deal with these micro-pits is to replace the windshield.
Always inspect the edges of the glass for damage, too, as any problems that affect the seal of the glass to the body can spread. Most damage on the side of a windshield can’t be repaired and will require replacement.
Don’t overlook the windshield wiper blades. Specifically, you want blades that are soft, pliable, and clear water. If the blades are brittle, they can scratch the glass of the windshield.

It’s also beneficial to keep your windshield as clean as possible. The best way to accomplish this is by using non-ammonia cleaners and soft cotton or microfiber towels. These tools will allow you to keep the windshield clean without creating streaks. As you know, streaks can make the windshield more difficult to see through.

During one of your inspections, if you discover that you need windshield repair or replacement, you know what to do: Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass in Kent. After all, we offer free estimates and lifetime guarantees on windshield repairs and replacements.

Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass Today!

At Lucky Dog Auto Glass, we guarantee your complete satisfaction. We are a family-owned business with roots in the community. We care about you and your safety, which is shown through our dedicated customer service and honest communication.

Don’t risk your safety or the safety of anyone else. If you notice a crack or chip of any kind in your windshield, let our friendly, skilled, and professional staff take a look at it. Contact us today to schedule an appointment by calling (253) 569-9403. We look forward to hearing from you!

Heavy Equipment Windshield Replacement

Posted on May 19, 2021May 19, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

Heavy-duty equipment like bulldozers, semi-trucks, backhoes, excavators, and tractors are built to withstand extreme conditions. They are exposed to the elements as well as rough work environments with flying debris. These vehicles are equipped with durable glass, but they still require check-ups. We recommend fleet managers and business owners look over their machinery at least once a year to check for breaks, chips, and cracks.

The glass in an excavator and other machinery protects the operator from airborne debris. Unlike cars that mostly drive on paved, flat roads, heavy-duty equipment drives over rocks, metal, stones, and construction sites where they can sustain damages from flying materials. The glass acts as a shield to ensure the driver can safely operate the machinery. If it’s cracked, it can impair the driver’s field of vision, which is dangerous.

Protect Your Workers from this Safety Risk

Unfortunately, small chips in the windshield glass can become large cracks and breaks, which are expensive and difficult to replace. We recommend checking for – and repairing – any small cracks and chips before they turn into bigger problems. Different machinery has different types of glass. Lucky Dog Auto Glass can replace tempered, laminated, and flat glass.

While it can seem time-consuming to pause operations for window glass replacement, it is necessary for the safety and continued efficiency of your equipment. Imagine the delays if the crack turns into a break or if the driver accidentally runs something over. We work with your schedule to minimize down time. All repaired glass meets the Auto Glass Safety Council standards (Auto Glass Safety Council™ (agsc.org)).

We understand that every piece of machinery is unique. We’ve got you totally covered with customized solutions for your equipment’s needs. Most importantly, we are focused on the quality of glass and installation. With Lucky Dog, your safety comes first. We take the necessary time to ensure the glass replacement is done correctly to ensure the safety of your workers. Our work lasts because we believe strongly that the product, installation, service, and your safety matters.

Don’t get stuck with long machinery down times or unsafe broken glass. Rely on Lucky Dog Auto Glass for your commercial, heavy-duty glass replacement.