Cracked Windshield - Caused by Heater?

[nbguy66]

A week ago I had a rock strike the windshield, but did not see any chips or cracks on inspection. This afternoon while in a parking lot with -20C temps, I had the heater running on high. I heard a crack sound, followed by another, then noticed the windshield was cracked in an arc just above the air vents on the top of the dash. It's almost exactly the width of the vent.

Is it possible the crack was due to a flawed windshield? I have been getting a whistling sound from the windshield area since I bought the Rogue last September. Can't but think the crack was caused by a flawed or and/or improperly installed windshield. Any thoughts?

[casperfun]

Had a rock hit my windshield. Thought I see a chip, thank god nothing. But your not alone. Sometimes I think using the heater might crack my windshield. Thats why I try to heat the interior first before blasting the front windows even though the air vents start out cold intially.

[Leo2005]

My heater started to whistle about a month as well. Sounds like something stock in the pipe.

[nbguy66]

UPDATE:

Found the chip after cleaning the area. The heater just caused the crack to expand, but did not cause the original problem. Getting the windshield replaced next week.

[kerrton]

Hey I'm just curious, what is a replacement windshield worth approximately, if you don't mind me asking, and are you getting an OEM or a knockoff replacement? Thanks.

[nbguy66]

I just ordered one form Speedy Auto Glass. Not sure of the cost yet. They tell me it will be identical to the original.