Is there a crack in your windshield?
It can probably be repaired if it’s only minor chip damage, but anything more than that may need a windshield replacement. It’s one of the car issues that worries a lot of drivers. That’s because they dread the windshield replacement costs.
How much does it cost to replace a windshield today? The answer depends on various factors, such as your vehicle’s make and model, the type of glass used to replace the windshield, etc.
To learn more about the cost of replacing a windshield and what affects it, please continue reading below.
Your Options When Faced With Windshield Damage
You may not have to worry about the windshield replacement cost at all since not all dings and cracks will need a complete replacement.
If the damage is small, about less than an inch, and doesn’t hinder your line of sight, you can choose to leave it alone for now. Or, you can attempt to fix it with a DIY repair kit you can buy for ten to twenty dollars. You can also take it to a shop for repairs.
But for larger cracks, you often have no choice but to replace your windshield for safety reasons. Besides impairing your view, a cracked windshield may increase the severity of a crash if you get involved in one.
Windshield Replacement Costs
What is the cost of replacing a windshield today? The price range for windshield replacement is between $200 to $700 for standard vehicles. Aside from your choice of auto glass provider, the costs can vary depending on the car’s make, model, or year.
The type of glass the shop uses for the replacement will have a marked difference in the price. In general, you’ll have to shell out more cash if you want original equipment manufacturer (OEM) glass installed. That’s because most independent glass installers use aftermarket parts, and OEM glass has to be special-ordered.
It may come as a surprise, but the quality of your windshield wipers is also a factor. Since the technician has to remove and replace the windshield wipers, this may affect the total replacement costs.
Luxury, Brand New, and Collectible Cars
As you would expect, the replacement cost for high-end cars is considerably higher. It can even go as high as $4,000 if you’re driving a supercar.
The high price tag is due to new tech installed on modern luxury vehicles. The windshields on these cars usually come equipped with all kinds of sensors, such as rain or condensation sensors. Most will also have a heads-up display (HUD). The replacement glass is much pricier since it has to accommodate all the features of the original.
It’s also more expensive to replace the windshield of a collectible or vintage car. The added cost comes from the difficulty of locating a proper replacement.
It’s Better to Replace a Damaged Windshield as Soon as Possible
While it’s tough on your wallet, it’s in your best interest to pay for windshield replacement costs at the earliest opportunity. The windshield has the word “shield” in it for a reason. It’s a crucial safety feature that protects the occupants of your vehicle.
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