You noticed a few chips and cracks in your windshield and had decided that the integrity of the windshield has surely been compromised. Is it finally time to replace it before one more rock hits it and it shatters while driving? Obviously, being able to see out of your windshield is extremely important to your safety.
People sometimes think that replacing the windshield is a big hassle and tend to put it off for as long as they can. They do this because they might not be fully aware of everything that goes into replacing the glass and how long it takes.
I will be going through the process and hopefully can ease your mind. I help you to decide that now is the right time to replace and it isn’t as big a deal as you might have made it out to be in your head.
Safety Concerns of Broken Windshields
There are several ways your windshield may have become cracked or broken, but it was most likely caused by flying rocks or other airborne debris. Chips and cracks in your windshield can weaken the overall structural integrity of the glass and can pose an array of different safety concerns including, but not limited to:
1. Ejection from the Vehicle
The windshield is the last line of defense you have after your seat belt if you are involved in a collision. If the windshield is cracked or broken, you have lost this crucial barrier.
2. Airbag Deployment Problems
When an airbag deploys, it uses the windshield to push it toward the passenger. If the windshield is broken, then it cannot properly deploy toward the passenger in a collision. Instead, it could go the opposite direction and deploy itself outside of the car through the window, instead of in where it is needed.
3. Impaired View
A crack can cause the driver’s view to become severely impaired which poses a variety of safety concerns for everyone. The crack makes it harder to see any obstacles there might be, as well as other cars and even pedestrians. It can also prove to be an unwanted distraction for the driver overall.
The Law Concerning Windshields
Your windshield is considered a safety feature of your vehicle and the law states that all safety devices need to be fully operational. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) requires that the glass is strong enough to hold the windshield together during a collision. They also require that the adhesive is six times stronger for cars that include passenger side airbags. (For state-by-state information about what insurance covers, whether insurance can use aftermarket parts, and more, check out our State-by-State Page.)
How Long Does Replacement Take?
Most windshield replacements, when done by a reputable company, can be done between 30 and 60 minutes. It takes no time at all to do, but it is also recommended that you do not drive the vehicle for an additional 60 minutes after the glass has been replaced; this means you are looking at about two hours in total from start to finish.
If you have a vehicle with passenger side airbags, then the time could be extended. Because the adhesive needs to be stronger and may take longer to cure. To comply with the laws and safety standards, you should strive to find a trained and certified technician. That only uses products that meet FMVSS standards. They should also be able to provide you with a written warranty and a record of the work that they have completed.
Before installation, the technician will go over exactly how long the work is estimated to take. And will discuss any concerns you may have. They will inform you of the type of glass and adhesive that must be used. And will ensure that your car will once again be safe to drive in different weather conditions.
Is the Windshield Repairable?
Most smaller chips and cracks can just be repaired and may not require the entire windshield to be replaced. Repairs come down to four different factors such as the size, type, depth, and location of the damage.
• Size
Most repair companies can repair cracks and chips that are one inch in diameter or up to three inches long.
• Type
There are several different types of cracks:
• Star Breaks are short radial cracks that come from the point of impact
• Circular objects usually cause Bulls Eye cracks
• Half Moon cracks are also caused by circular objects, but the damage is not entirely circular in appearance
• Crack chips are single cracks that are usually only the size of a quarter; they are also referred to as dings
• Pits are just small areas of missing glass
Repairs are discussed on an individual basis. You should keep in mind that it might be best just completely to replace the entire windshield. It is best to replace a windshield where there is a shelter. Adverse weather conditions can cause complications, and it may take longer for the glue to dry and cure.
Hi Jason,
Excellent question. If you purchase a windshield without these add-on options, they simply will not work, but the windshield should still have the same fit and finish. Since you disable these features anyway, this could be an easy way to save some money when replacing your windshield. However, you may want to consider the resale value when it comes time to trade in or sell the vehicle in the future. Also be sure to consult with your local windshield repair shop to obtain their professional opinion.
Want to save money on car insurance in California?
Chipped, cracked, and broken windshields are among the most common car repairs. Pebbles, vandalism, falling branches, animals, and even sand and gravel can damage your windshield.
This page will review ways to pay for auto glass replacement and repair using car insurance.
Understand Glass Coverage
If your windshield (or other glass, e.g., side windows, rear window, or sunroof) is damaged by something other than a collision, you’ll likely pay for it using comprehensive coverage. However, understand that this coverage is optional and if you don’t have it, you may be on your own when it comes time to pay for repairs.
Comprehensive coverage typically pays for damages occurring from:
- Storms.
- Fires.
- Vandalism.
- Animal collisions.
Check to see whether your car insurance company includes windshield repair and replacement in your comprehensive coverage.
Even if you read the words 'auto glass repair,' inquire if it is all-inclusive. Auto glass replacement on some comprehensive coverage plans only covers the side and back windows, but not the windshield.
DMV.org Insurance Finder
Join 1,972,984 Americans who searched DMV.org for car insurance rates:
Consider Your Deductible
Before filing a windshield repair claim, compare the cost of the repair/replacement with the size of your comprehensive deductible.
If your deductible is greater than the cost of the estimated repair, it won't be worth your while to file a claim.
However, do note that some car insurance companies and some policies will allow for glass replacement without requiring payment of a deductible. Most likely, your coverage will cost more; however, you’ll save on your deductible.
The Potential Impact on Your Premium
In most cases, a claim for glass damage that does not result from a collision does not cause an increase in your car insurance rates. However, this will vary by car insurance company.
You may want to think twice about filing a claim if the cost of your repair is only a small amount greater than the amount of your deductible.
Example:
Your windshield gets cracked by a flying rock and:
- The windshield repair cost is $280.
- You have a $250 deductible.
- The insurance company will contribute only $30.
![Windshield Windshield](https://media.angieslist.com/s3fs-public/styles/square_thumbnail_large/public/Auto%20glass.jpg?itok=P9-NeYqB)
Consider whether saving $30 is worth filing the claim. The claim will go on your car insurance claim record. Essentially, having more claims on your record increases your perceived risk and, in turn, the chances of seeing a hike in your auto insurance renewal rates.
Submit Your Claim
If your deductible is low enough to warrant filing an auto glass claim, file the claim with your auto insurance company as soon as possible. Depending on your auto insurance company, this can be done:
- By phone.
- In person.
- Online.
- Mobile application.
An insurance company agent will confirm whether or not you're covered for the windshield repair or replacement and explain your options. You may need to go to the car insurance company to get the damage inspected and get the approval for reimbursement.
Get the Damage Fixed
Your next step will be to get your windshield fixed. You may alternatively be able to submit the claim to get reimbursement after getting the work done.
Many car insurance companies offer two options for getting auto glass repair:
Fix Windshield Crack
- Via a specific car repair shop with whom they are have a contract.
- Via a repair shop of your choice.
- NOTE: Certain limits on the reimbursement amounts may apply.
If you choose your own repair shop, make sure to choose a reputable one, such as one that meets Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards Council standards.
Submit Your Receipt for Reimbursement
Your car insurance company may allow you to upload or fax your receipt or invoice with:
- Your name.
- Policy number.
- Phone number.
- Date of damage.
Be sure to ask your company exactly which details you’ll need to submit.
Protect Yourself Against Windshield Repair Fraud
To ward off windshield and auto glass replacement fraud, recognize the following scam attempts:
- Your repairperson tries to convince you that you need your windshield replaced as opposed to being repaired.
- Someone approaches you unsolicited away from a repair shop (e.g., in a parking lot, car wash, or gas station) and tells you they can fix your windshield.
- Your repair shop charges your insurance for several windshield replacements without you knowing it.
How To Fix Cracked Windshield Yourself
These fraudulent schemes can harm you Download driver gadmei utv 380 windows 7. in multiple ways. For example, they can:
How Much To Replace Windshield Glass
- Make your car dangerous to drive.
- If your windshield is replaced with subpar glass, you are at the risk of decreased vision and danger of the windshield popping out and injuring you in a crash.
- Increase your auto insurance premiums.
- Having an unnecessary claim on your insurance can raise your rates.
- Result in the loss of your auto insurance for making false claims.
- If your repairperson makes multiple, false claims against your insurance, you can find yourself with a cancelled policy.
To prevent fraud:
- Say no to anyone you don’t know who offers to repair your windshield unsolicited.
- Research repair shops before picking one. Your car insurance company can recommend reputable places.
- Contact your car insurance company BEFORE getting your windshield replacement. They may repair small damage for free.
- Review your bill carefully.
- Follow up with your insurance company to make sure additional claims weren’t made against your policy.
The best way to ensure you get any auto glass replaced, including your windshield, in a timely and affordable manner is to first speak with your car insurance company about your coverage, get any recommendations for reputable repair shops, and make sure to get receipts for all repairs.