Broken Windshields: Repair or Replace?

So you've got a broken windshield. You have zero deductible on the comprehensive coverage on your auto policy, so you're going to get the windshield replaced. Right? I mean, a repair may only cost 20 to 50 bucks, and the average windshield is between $300 to $500, so you want to get your moneys worth.

Hold on one minute. You may want to consider getting the windshield repaired. First, is the damage in the driver's direct line of vision? If it is, forget it - go straight to the repair. If it is not, it may be repairable. Is it a star crack? The size of a quarter or smaller? It may be repairable. Is it a regular crack? A crack up to a foot long may be repairable.

But why should you consider a repair? Many people are concerned with the integrity of the windshield. They don't want to break the factory seal. Rembember, the windshield is a structural component of the car. A new windshield may leak. Possibly. If the job is done professionally, the glass shops warranty their work. They'll do the job until it is done right. So either choice is correct. Which one are you most comfortable with?

Another thing to consider is the cost. Not everyone has a zero dollar deductible. For those who have a $100, $250, $500 or higher deductible, a repair is less expensive than replacing the windshield. The glass shops warranty their work, and if the repair does not work, they usually apply the cost of the repair to the cost of the replacement. If you have a low deductible, and you still opt for the repair, you are contributing to keeping down costs. That is good because that helps keep the cost of insurance down. Remember, it is a business.

So which one is it? Repair or replace? There are many instances where you don't have choice. The location or size of the damage dictate that you must replace the windshield. But sometimes the windshield can be repaired. I have seen repairs where you can't tell the glass was previously damaged. Tip. If you are considering having the windshield repaired, cover the crack with a piece of tape and get it repaired as soon as possible. The tape keeps dirt out of the area.