Windshield Replacement and Repair – What is the Difference?
Windshield replacement and repair can be quite confusing believe it or not. We hope to make it easy for you to understand the difference between the two.
Windshield Replacement:
You want your windshield replaced if :
*you have a crack that is over an inch long.
*if it’s pitted: You know, that fun disco ball effect you have in the sun when you are driving. It can be great if there is a good song on the radio but it isn’t really all that safe to drive with a pitted windshield.
*if you have a chip in the direct line of vision.
These are three reasons why you would want to REPLACE your windshield.
Windshields can cost anywhere from $170 on up. Some can cost over $300.00. Check with your insurance agent about your coverage. Before you get a break in your windshield, call for a quote so you know if glass coverage is for you. Some insurance companies will add to glass coverage even if you have basic coverage.
Windshield Repair:
You want to repair your windshield if:
*you have a chip that is smaller than a dime
*you have a chip that is repairable – a technician can tell you if they can repair it or not. Even if it is small, the damage can be too bad to repair.
Repairs cost $40 for in-shop in Prescott Valley and $50 for mobile repair. It takes about 20-30 minutes to repair most chips. Check with your insurance agent to find out if your insurance company will pay for the repair. Sometimes they will waive your deductible for a chip repair.
You make a good point about the location of the crack being important. If it is in your line of vision it creates a safety issue and probably should be replaced. I think it is a good idea to have a professional assess it.
Exactly! Thanks for stopping by!
I am happy to know some tips about when windshields must be replaced. I would like to know if my windshield needs to be replaced. I have a chip that is pretty close to my vision line. I was going to just fix it, but I will now be replacing the windshield.
I hope that this article helped you – the best answer is – if it bothers you, replace it. If it doesn’t – don’t.
I found out if you have a crack starting and cant afford a replacement that very lightly and carefully you can guide the crack to make sure it doesn’t interfere with your vision. A friend of mine at the glass shop I work with did it for me. Man I never even would have considered trying something like that if I had not seen it.
We don’t recommend this in Arizona as it’s the law to have a crack free windshield. We don’t recommend it really ever. Interesting, but not recommended. Did I say we don’t recommend this? Thanks for the note and thanks for admitting you work for an auto glass company!