Windshield Replacement – What You Need to Know
Your windshield is a vital part of your car. If it becomes cracked or chipped, you need to replace it as soon as possible. Even small holes can compromise your safety and cause debris to enter your eyes. It also provides stability to your car and keeps your airbags in place during a crash. To avoid serious injuries, have your windshield repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Small chips and cracks can be repaired, but larger cracks and chips should be replaced. Cracks that are deeper than the size of a quarter need replacement. Deeper cracks expose the plastic inner layer and can be discolored. When you have a chip, don’t wait until it spreads to the entire windshield. Repairing your windshield now will prevent it from spreading. It will also preserve the structural integrity of your windshield.
Make sure you hire a reputable auto glass repair facility. A cheap windshield installer may use low-quality glass. This can create optical distortion, which is distracting for drivers. To determine if your windshield is of good quality, try holding a piece of graph paper perpendicular to the glass and check its reflection. A ripple should be visible. If it is not, your windshield will need replacement.
Getting your windshield replaced is easy, but you have to be sure that the technician is qualified. It can take up to an hour or more, depending on the complexity of the repair. You may need to wait a few hours for the new sealant to dry. A professional windshield repair technician will be able to assess your needs and ensure the job is done correctly.
Insurers generally cover the cost of windshield replacement, but your insurance company’s policy will determine the extent of coverage you have. If you have comprehensive or collision insurance, you may not be required to pay a deductible. You should still compare policies before making a decision. Insurify is a free tool to compare insurance rates.
The cost of a windshield replacement varies depending on the type of vehicle and its manufacturer. Often, older cars can be repaired for a much lower price than newer ones. And newer vehicles can have sophisticated windshields with up to five sensors, which can make the replacement process more expensive. Nevertheless, the process of replacing a windshield is similar across different models and years.
Another type of windshield repair involves recalibrating ADAS systems. ADAS systems require a highly skilled technician who knows how to calibrate them properly. In addition to identifying the different types of ADAS systems, windshield repair technicians must be able to determine which is best for your vehicle. You can choose between a static or dynamic calibration process. It is important to understand which method is right for your car and your budget.
The cost of windshield repair varies widely depending on where you are located, the type of windshield that needs to be replaced and how much damage there is to your vehicle. Most windshield replacements cost around $250-$400, but the cost of luxury or collector cars may be higher. Moreover, you should remember that a replacement windshield for a luxury or rare vehicle will require specialized glass.