At Steel River Windscreens, we get this question all the time from drivers in Newcastle, the Hunter, Port Stephens, and Lake Macquarie:
"Is it actually illegal to drive with a cracked windscreen in New South Wales?"
The short answer? Yes, it can be—depending on the size and position of the crack.
Let’s break it down so you know where you stand and, more importantly, how a cracked windscreen can put you and your passengers at serious risk.
When Does a Windscreen Crack Make Your Car Illegal?
According to the NSW government's safety rules, your car won’t pass its Safety Check inspection if the following cracks are found on the driver's side of the windscreen:
- A hairline crack up to 30mm
- A crack from the edge of the glass up to 75mm
- A bullseye crack up to 16mm
If your windscreen has two or more of these types of cracks within these size limits, or if any single crack is larger than these measurements, your vehicle is considered unroadworthy.
That means it's not just illegal to drive—it could also get you fined, defected, or even worse, put your safety at serious risk.
Why Even Small Cracks Are a Big Safety Issue
Even if your crack doesn't technically break the rules, it's still dangerous to drive with a damaged windscreen.
Why?
Your windscreen is more than just glass. It's a critical part of your car’s safety system. Here’s how:
- Cracks in the driver’s line of sight can block your view and increase the risk of accidents.
- In a crash, the airbag relies on the windscreen to deploy correctly.
If the windscreen is cracked, the airbag can punch straight through the glass rather than cushioning you and your passengers—turning a life-saving device into a deadly one.
At Steel River Windscreens, we've seen it time and time again—drivers putting off repairs and risking it all for the sake of saving a few dollars. Don’t take that chance.
Don’t Risk It—Get Your Windscreen Fixed Fast
Whether you’ve got a tiny chip or a crack running across the screen, the safest move is to get it looked at straight away.
At Steel River Windscreens in Mayfield West, we help drivers across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, and the Hunter stay safe and on the right side of the law.
We offer affordable, fast, and professional windscreen repairs and replacements for all vehicle types—from family cars to 4WDs, trucks, and earth-moving gear.
Need a fast quote?
Give Steel River Windscreens a call on 0416 138 151, or drop into our workshop conveniently located near the Steel River Industrial Estate in Mayfield West.
Remember—it’s not just about the law, it’s about your life.