If your windshield has been chipped or damaged, you could be putting yourself and others at risk by continuing to drive. Damaged windshields can obscure your view, resulting in loss of visibility. This poses an immediate threat on the road, and you could find yourself being ticketed as a result. Regardless of whether you’ve got damage to a front or rear windshield, it’s important to replace or repair it to ensure your safety, the safety of your passengers and the safety of other road users.
If you have a fully comprehensive insurance policy, the costs for repairing your windshield will be fully covered (minus your deductible). If you don’t intend on making a claim with your insurance, you may be worried as to whether you’ll be able to replace your windshield. Thankfully, you don’t need to be too concerned, as it’s possible to replace your windshield without making an insurance claim for a relatively low cost.
There are several factors that come into play regarding windshield replacement pricing – so how much is it likely to cost you? Let’s consider the following:
Windshield replacement costs
It typically costs between $100 to $400 to for windshield replacement (dependent on the model of your vehicle). The average cost, including labor to fit the windshield, sits at around $220. Other factors affecting the cost of your windshield include the vehicle manufacturer, the year the vehicle was manufactured, the location of the damage, the type of glass used in manufacturing the windshield and your preferred vendor for repairs.
Ensuring a quality windshield repair without insurance
If you don’t want to make an insurance claim, you’ll want to ensure that you choose a reputable mechanic to fit your new windshield. It’s worth remembering that your windshield is classified as a safety device. This is because it gives structural strength to your vehicle and supports the inflation of airbags. When it comes to windshield replacement, the installation is just as important as the quality of the windshield build.
Don’t be afraid to search online for reviews – you’ll want to make sure that the provider of your windshield replacement service has the qualifications and experience to do a great job at an affordable cost. Before booking your vehicle in, you should ask the engineer about their experience in replacing windshields on your make and model of vehicle.
Can I replace a windshield myself?
If you’re working within a strict budget, you might start to consider purchasing a home adhesive kit to replace or repair your windscreen. This can be enticing, but if performed incorrectly you could be putting yourself at risk. Even if you don’t feel at risk, home repair kits can simply go wrong and lead to another outright replacement which further adds to your costs.
If you’ve got experience in windshield replacement, great – if not, perhaps it’s best to allow the professionals to do the job for you. It will save you money in the long run, and if you shop around you should be able to find a good deal.