Wind Noise or Whistling After a Windscreen Replacement

Wind Noise or Whistling After a Windscreen Replacement

A whistle or extra rush of wind noise after a windscreen replacement is not something you should have to live with. It usually points to a trim, moulding or seal issue, and most causes are straightforward for the installer to check.

Common Causes

A moulding that is not fully seated

Most windscreens have a rubber or plastic moulding around the edge. If a section is not pressed fully home, or lifts at highway speed, air rushing past can cause a whistle — often from one corner or along the top.

The cowl or A-pillar trims

The cowl panel below the windscreen and the trims along the pillars are removed during most replacements. A clip that did not re-engage, or a trim that is slightly out of place, can let air through.

A gap in the urethane bead

The adhesive bead should run in a continuous line around the glass. A gap can let air through and may also let water in. If you have noise and a leak, see why your windscreen might be leaking after rain.

Glass position

If the glass sits slightly high, low or proud of the body on one side, the airflow over that edge changes.

Noise that was already there

Sometimes the noise comes from a door seal or mirror, and is simply more noticeable now you are listening for it. Some original windscreens are acoustic glass, and fitting a non-acoustic replacement can make cabin noise slightly more noticeable — see acoustic windscreen replacement.

Simple Checks You Can Do

1. Look along the top and sides of the glass for any moulding that is lifted, twisted or sitting unevenly.
2. Check the cowl panel and pillar trims for gaps or loose edges.
3. Note when it happens — only above a certain speed, only in crosswinds, or all the time.
4. Try to locate it: a passenger can press lightly on a trim or moulding while you drive (safely) to see if the noise stops.
5. After rain or a car wash, check inside the top corners and footwells for damp.

Wait until the adhesive has cured before pressing on the glass or mouldings. Our article on how long after a windscreen replacement you can drive covers cure times.

When to Contact Your Installer

Contact whoever fitted the windscreen if the noise is new since the replacement, if you can see a lifted moulding or trim, or if there is any sign of water. Wind noise and leaks after a replacement are usually covered under the installer’s workmanship warranty — see what to expect from a windscreen warranty.

If the moulding or seal is the issue, it can often be fixed without replacing the glass. Windscreen resealing with Aussie AutoGlass starts from $165.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is some extra noise normal after a new windscreen?

A new windscreen should be no noisier than the original. A slight difference can occur if the original was acoustic glass and the replacement is not, but a whistle is not normal.

Can wind noise mean the windscreen is unsafe?

Usually it is a trim or moulding issue. If the noise comes with a leak or a visible gap in the bond, have it inspected promptly.

Can I fix the moulding myself?

Pressing a lifted moulding back after the adhesive has cured is sometimes enough, but if it lifts again or there is a gap underneath, let the installer handle it.

Why does the noise only happen at highway speed?

Air pressure over the glass increases with speed, so a small gap may only whistle once you are going fast enough.

Noise or leaks after a windscreen replacement? Aussie AutoGlass is a mobile service across greater Sydney — we come to your home or workplace. Book an appointment or call 0405 412 951.