How much does windshield replacement cost?

The windshield is one of the most important parts of your car. Provides protection from elements such as rain, snow and dirt. If damaged, the driver and passengers can be at risk of injury, especially if they are involved in a car accident.

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Car owners who notice chipped or cracked windshields have to get it fixed right away and pay an average of $200 to $401 for a complete windshield replacement. Keep reading to learn all the details about windshield replacement.

How much does it cost to replace a windshield?

Luckily, the average cost to replace a windshield is generally between $200 and $401, so windshield replacement costs aren’t particularly exorbitant. However, various factors can affect the cost of windshield replacement, including:

• vehicle age

• car make and model

• repair shop

• types of windshield damage

• glass used for windshield replacement

• Special features of windshield like rain sensor

A windshield with a small chip may only require repair rather than replacement of the entire windshield. A minor repair is much cheaper than a full windshield replacement.

Vehicle owners with comprehensive car insurance may be eligible for free windshield repair or replacement. Car owners should check to see if their insurance policy includes windshield repair before paying out-of-pocket for windshield replacement. Most insurance companies cover minimal chips, while others cover larger cracks.

How long does it take to replace a windshield?

Many factors affect how long it takes to replace a windshield. Car owners wishing to have their windshield replaced may have to wait for available parts, especially if their vehicle is older or they wish to have it replaced by the manufacturer of the original equipment.

Once a suitable windshield is available, the process of replacing it is quick. A technician can usually replace a windshield within 2 hours of her. How long it takes to replace a windshield depends on the vehicle model and whether there are plastic moldings around the windshield. Newer cars with special sensors in the windshield can also take longer to replace.

Will replacing the windshield reduce the value of the car?

The opposite is actually true. Not fixing a broken windshield can reduce the value of your car. When a car owner decides to sell or trade in their vehicle, the buyer considers the condition of the vehicle, including windshield damage.

Broken windows can impair a driver’s vision and increase the risk of injury in the event of an accident, so it makes sense that buyers prefer cars that are free of cracks and chips. Buyers who purchase a vehicle with pre-existing windshield damage are more likely to lower their offer as they will have to pay for the repair themselves.

Is it possible to repair a cracked windshield?

In some cases, a cracked windshield can be repaired rather than completely replaced. The location and length of the crack determines whether it can be repaired. Technicians can usually repair fractures that are a few inches or less in length.

Vehicle owners who have insurance to cover windshield damage should check with their provider to determine whether they will pay for the repair or a complete replacement. I prefer to replace the glass completely rather than repair it.

final take

It’s important to have your chipped or cracked windshield repaired or replaced quickly. By doing so, drivers can reduce the risk of accidents due to visual impairment. In some cases, it may be possible to repair the windshield instead of replacing the entire windshield. This saves you the cost of replacing the entire windshield. Before paying for windshield replacement, car owners should check with their insurance company to see if they will pay the bill.

Information as of January 24, 2023.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How much does a windshield replacement cost?