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How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Windshield?
Over time, your car windshield is going to sustain a lot of damage. You notice cracks and other physical defects are beginning to appear in the glass, and now it’s becoming a potential safety hazard. You also don’t want to wait to replace your windshield either. We always recommend that you stay ahead of the damage and try to replace it as soon as possible before the cost gets out of hand.
When to Replace vs. Repair
This is a question that we hear a lot. When is it appropriate to repair your windshield versus replacing it? The truth is that whenever any damage occurs to your car windows, you should repair them immediately. This is because of the safety concerns and financial consequences associated with broken and damaged windshields.
There is a general rule when it comes to repairing vs. replacement: you can repair chips and cracks in your windshield that are smaller than a dollar bill. However, there some exceptions to this rule.
You should always be repairing a damaged windshield as soon as you possibly can. That’s because small cracks tend to develop into larger cracks very quickly. This can then create a major safety risk for yourself and the passengers in your car. The windshield is also partly responsible for maintaining the structure of your car.
What Affects the Cost of Replacement
The average cost of a windshield replacement will range between $200 and $400 depending on the type of car you drive and other factors. You will also need to consider the auto glass manufacturer and whether you want to request an on-site appointment or mobile service.
As we already mentioned earlier, the price of replacement will vary according to the specifications of your vehicle. However, we want to explain the different things that can influence the cost so that you can get an idea of how much money you will end up spending on a replacement:
- The make, model and year of your car
- Windshield features, including cameras and sensors
- The age and quality of your windshield wipers
- The extent of the damage
- The manufacturer of your new windshield
Newer cars typically require that you obtain dealership glass for replacements. That’s because newer model cars typically contain special features in the windshield.
Windshield Replacement Quote
Most windshield manufacturers will offer free quotes via their website. They will ask you to fill out of form requesting certain information from you. This includes your name and contact information as well as details on the damage that occurred to your vehicle. They will also need to know the make, model and year of your car.
Will Car Insurance Cover Replacements?
It is ultimately up to you to make a claim with your insurance provider. Most providers will fully cover the cost. Some companies will have different rules and requirements on what they will cover when it comes to any damage that occurs to your windshield.
We always recommend that you consult your insurance provider beforehand when filing a claim. This will help you determine if the windshield repair service will work directly with your provider.
Can I Replace My Windshield?
You can, but this is something that we never recommend. You should always put your trust in an auto glass repair specialist. They can perform an entire windshield replacement for a few hundred dollars and get the job done in a timely manner. Many people end up purchasing repair kits from a home improvement store which tend to be extremely ineffective.
Choosing a Dependable Repair Service
The auto repair specialist that you decide to hire should possess all the necessary qualifications to provide service. This includes certifications, insurance, and years of experience repairing and replacing windshields. You always want to make sure that you are choosing a reputable company that can perform same-day replacements.
A repair specialist will adhere to the professional standards listed below:
- Following the proper adhesive instructions provided by the windshield manufacturer
- Using acceptable products that meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
- Providing written warranties and work histories
- Possessing the proper insurance and certifications
The right company is going to get the job done for you without any issues. If you have any questions, we encourage you to contact one of our trusted team members. They can explain the cost of windshield replacements in greater detail. They can also explain the various repair services that are available to you.