How do you know when to repair or replace a windshield?

If you’re wondering whether you need to repair or replace your cracked windshield, you are not alone. Windshield cracks are a common issue that should be taken care of swiftly. There are several factors to consider when deciding whether your windshield glass should be repaired or replaced.

• Depth. If the crack only penetrates the outer layer of glass, you should be fine with a repair, but if the crack reaches the inner layer of glass you will need to get the windshield replaced.
• Visibility. A crack that impedes your field of vision while driving will require full replacement. 
• Location. Any crack that is near the edge of the glass will require a replacement, but if it isn’t near the edge of the glass, you can probably get away with a repair.
• Safety. A crack that can be repaired without altering the effectiveness of the windshield during a collision should be safe to repair.
• Length. Glass repair and replacement experts often recommend not exceeding 3 to 5 inches when repairing a windshield crack. However, depending on the crack’s location and severity, sometimes a crack of up to 12 inches can be repaired.

Knowing whether to repair or replace a cracked windshield will help keep you and your passengers safe. This article will tell you what you need to know about the costs associated with repairing or replacing a car windshield, where you should get the windshield repaired and how auto insurance may be able to cover the costs.

What’s the cost to repair a windshield?

The cost to repair a cracked windshield will vary depending on the severity of the crack. A small crack typically runs $60-$90 to repair, but the cost increases as the size of the repair increases. Your auto insurance policy may cover cracked windshield repairs at no cost to you, but you should check the details of your policy to make sure. Some policies require you pay the deductible before they will pay for windshield repairs.

What’s the cost to replace a windshield?

 When a windshield needs to be replaced, it’s likely to run $800-$1,000 out-of-pocket, but there are several variables that will determine the cost. The price can depend on the make and model of your car, the car’s features and the windshield size and glass type. If you have a newer vehicle with a camera attached to the windshield that will need to be recalibrated after the windshield replacement, you want to make sure that is included in the price as well. As with windshield repairs, your auto insurance policy may cover windshield replacement, but you will need to check the details of your policy to see what is covered.

Where should you get your windshield repaired or replaced?

There are many windshield repair and replacement options, so how do you know where to get yours fixed? You may choose the convenience of a mobile windshield repair company that will come right to you, so you don’t have to interrupt your schedule to complete the repair or replacement. You may also choose an auto glass repair shop or dealership near you perform the repair. Your auto insurance company might have a preferred network of repair companies, so if you’re using your insurance to cover the repair or replacement you can choose from one of those providers. 

Need auto insurance? Let SelectQuote help find the right coverage for your needs.

Dealing with a cracked windshield can be frustrating and stressful, but having the right auto insurance coverage can make the repair or replacement process much smoother. SelectQuote’s experienced licensed insurance agents can help find you the right auto insurance policy by searching highly-rated carriers in just minutes, saving you time and money. We’ll answer any questions you have about auto insurance coverage so you can have peace of mind on the road.