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When your car’s windshield gets damaged, you might wonder whether it’s better to repair it or replace it entirely. The answer largely depends on the severity of the damage.
A car windshield is designed with a double glazing structure, which means it won’t shatter into pieces. Instead, it might develop cracks or change shape. This design includes a special film between two layers of glass that helps absorb impact and prevent shattering, but when a crack occurs, it can gradually expand, obstructing your view or compromising the safety of the vehicle. Even a small crack can distort your vision while driving, and over time, the pressure from the vehicle’s motion can cause the crack to worsen. If left unchecked, this could lead to significant safety risks while driving, so it is important to repair or replace the windshield as soon as possible.
Small chips or cracks (under 2 cm in diameter) can usually be repaired quickly. However, if the crack obstructs your view or continues to grow, replacement may be necessary. If the windshield is damaged or obstructing your view, you may not pass the WOF (Warrant of Fitness) inspection. Cracks or damage to the glass can impair the driver’s visibility, which could be considered a safety hazard during the WOF inspection.
The cost of windshield replacement can vary greatly, ranging from as little as $500 to as much as $5,000 depending on the situation. Since the cost of replacement can be significant, it’s crucial to ensure that your car insurance policy covers windshields. By selecting this option when signing up for your insurance, you can be prepared for any unexpected damage and avoid large out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, many glass claims are exempt from access fees, which is a significant advantage.
Moreover, glass coverage for car damage applies not only to windshields but also to all the glass installed in the vehicle, such as side windows and rear windows. This means that if any glass in your vehicle is damaged, you can have it repaired or replaced with no additional cost to you, which is incredibly useful. This type of coverage covers all potential glass damage, giving you peace of mind when it comes to windshield and other car glass repairs.
Another great advantage of glass claims is that they can also cover the cost of interior cleaning and detailing. When glass breaks, shards can spread inside the car, and cleaning or detailing may be necessary. These costs are also included in the glass claim, allowing you to address the windshield repair or replacement as well as cleaning and detailing the car’s interior in one go. This insurance benefit is practical and economical, considering the convenience it offers to the vehicle owner.
If your car is equipped with a camera in the front windshield, it could also affect the ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) camera system.
ADAS is an essential safety feature in modern vehicles, assisting with lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking, and other systems designed to keep the driver safe. The camera mounted on the windshield is crucial for the proper functioning of these systems, and if the windshield is replaced without recalibrating the camera, it could lead to improper system operation, potentially causing unintended accidents. Therefore, when replacing the windshield, it’s crucial to perform an ADAS recalibration to ensure the safety systems work correctly.
Insurance coverage is another important factor to consider. Most car insurance companies will cover windshield damage without an excess (deductible), but in some cases, a deductible may apply during a replacement. It’s important to check your policy’s terms to avoid unexpected costs.
In conclusion, it’s essential to repair or replace a damaged windshield as soon as it’s detected. If you notice any damage, consult with a professional immediately to initiate the replacement and recalibration process, ensuring the safety and performance of your vehicle while preventing accidents.
