Windshield replacement cost can be prohibitive, but the price of windshield crack repair can far outweigh the dangers and possible additional expenses (such as driving tickets) that can result from not getting it fixed.
The Importance of a Whole Windshield
Did you know that the first cars invented did not have windshields? Mind you they didn’t go very fast either (5-10 mph at the fastest) but it didn’t take very long for drivers to demand that there be something included to keep the wind and bugs and debris out of their faces while driving.
A vehicle’s windshield crack repair is not only a means for keeping the wind out of your face, as a driver it is your eye on the world around you, and while it may seem that a crack is a trivial thing; even a simple crack can distort this view of the highway and at 60+ mph, even a slight miscalculation can be dangerous – or even fatal to yourself, your passengers, or those around you. That is why it is imperative that you take the initiative to have your windshield repaired or replaced, regardless of the windshield replacement cost.
Repair or Replace?
The decision to repair or replace a windshield is going to be determined by several factors; primarily the type of damage your windshield has sustained. A small nick or crack can usually be repaired fairly easily and effectively by patching, but if left too long the small nick or crack can develop into a driving hazard. Needless to say, large cracks or major damage to the windshield should always take the windshield crack repair as soon as possible.
The Cost of Windshield Replacement
Windshield replacement cost varies from vehicle to vehicle and will depend to a great extent on the type of coverage that you have. Most car insurance carriers include windshield replacement as a part of their car insurance package; though you can choose the amount of deductible (the upfront cost) you will pay before the insurance will kick in. Some opt for low (or no) deductibles meaning that they will pay a higher monthly premium, but will have their windshields replaced at no – or very little – additional cost. Others choose lower monthly premiums but opt for a higher deductible and, in effect, pay for the entire replacement of the windshield themselves.
Without insurance a standard automobile windshield crack repair can average between $150 – $450 depending on the type of car you own and the kind of windshield you are replacing, but even though it can be pricey, not replacing your car’s windshield can be even more expensive. Not only are you risking a driving hazard ticket being given out by the police, but if you are in an accident and it can be proven that the crack in your windshield pre-dated the accident and contributed to the accident, your car insurance can refuse to pay up, meaning that you could have an even bigger mess on your hands. As you can see, the windshield replacement cost is definitely worth the price in the long run.
