How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Windshield
If unfortunately your windshield is cracked or chipped, you need to consider replacement. However, bear in mind that windshield replacement is not cheap. It can cost hundreds of dollars. That is why a lot of people simply consider a windshield repair as it is oftentimes cheaper. However, in some cases, windshield replacement is inevitable. Most of the windshield repair shops today will suggest replacement instead of repair when the crack or chip is bigger than a quarter and more than three inches long. So if you have no other option than to go for replacement, check this article and see how much does windshield replacement cost these days.
Typical Cost Of Replacing A Windshield The typical cost of a windshield replacement is $150 to $350.
This price includes the removal of the damaged glass, the installation of the replacement windshield, and the cleaning of the newly installed glass. It also includes warranties and the materials used for the replacement such as the glass and adhesive.
Factors That Affect The Price Of Windshield Replacement
Type of vehicle. Different vehicles have different windshield requirements. Hence, you can see a price difference from vehicle to vehicle. For instance, according to Windscreen Chip Repair, replacing a windshield of a passenger car can go from $157 to $324 while a minivan windshield replacement cost ranges from $174 to $294. For SUVs, the cost starts from $164 to $290 and for pickup trucks, the range is $164 to $310.
Type of glass. Windshield replacement glass options can be categorized under three types. They are OEM or original equipment manufacture products, factory recommended replacement glass, and aftermarket glass. The latter is the cheapest option but this kind does not generally meet the recommended specifications of the vehicle's manufacturer. This makes aftermarket glass the least safest to purchase for a windshield replacement. The best and most expensive is the OEM glass and is recommended in most cases. Some OEM windshield replacement projects can go more than $500.
Windshield repair shop. The price of windshield replacement can differ from one shop to another. This can be due to geographical location or the expertise of a shop's staff. For instance, some shops charge higher because the labor fees they pay to professional and skilled installers are higher. Another factor that can affect the price is how you order the windshield replacement from a shop. Some repair shops go to your location to inspect and replace the windshield for you. This kind of option is more expensive as compared to driving your car to the repair shop and getting it done there.
Insurance. Your car insurance will also determine the cost of your overall windshield replacement. Some insurance plans cover the cost of windshield replacement so most of the time, you do not have to worry about the cost of doing so.
Additional Costs
Tint. If you request a tint stripe across the top of the windshield, this may cost you extra. The same is true when asking for fully tinted windshields.
Rubber moldings. If your vehicle needs special rubber moldings to secure the new windshield, you need to pay $5 to $20 extra.
Wiper replacement. In any case that the wipers are attached to the windshield, wiper and blade replacement is necessary. This can cost you $10 to $20 extra.
Tips Before You Decide to Replace A Windshield
Determine whether your windshield needs replacement or just a repair. A repair will cost less than a replacement so you better make sure which one really needs to be done. MSN.com features an article that can help you to know whether a windshield needs replacement or repair. You can also bring your car to a certified technician to evaluate and inspect the condition of the windshield to know what needs to be done.
Understand that a damaged windshield is not only an eyesore but is also a danger. Hence, move your way towards replacing the windshield as soon as possible.
Choose a facility that can best help you with the replacement job. You can choose from automotive glass specialists, windshield repair facilities, car dealers, and general glass service companies. Take note that you must choose one not only based on the price but also the quality of their work and the quality of the glass they offer for windshield replacement. Some replacement shops charge lower because they usually use aftermarket glasses instead of OEM windshields.
Before making a replacement service company do the job for you, make sure you are aware not only of the costs but also of all the services included in their price quotation. Give extra attention to warranties and guarantees to ensure that when you see problems with the installation such as a leak, you can easily order for a reinstallation of the windshield.
Use the Auto Glass Locator or the National Glass Association website to find qualified auto glass repair shops and technicians near you.