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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Windshield?

A closeup of a deep chip in a car windshield with spiderweb-like cracking around it.

How much does it cost to replace a windshield? It could be $100 or well over $1,000 depending on several factors, including the kind of car you drive, the type of glass and any special features, such as rain sensors and other safety technology

Here are some things to consider when replacing your windshield.

Repair or Replace?

First, not every damaged windshield needs to be completely replaced. A small chip or crack can be safely repaired by a professional, or you can use a repair kit to tackle the job yourself.

As a rule of thumb, if the damage is smaller than a dollar bill, it probably can be repaired. However, this is only a guideline, so seek a pro’s advice if you’re unsure. Don’t delay! Minor damage can become major and require a total replacement.

What About Insurance?Damaged Winshield

You may not have to pay anything to have a damaged windshield repaired or replaced. Check your auto policy to see what kind of glass coverage you have. When you’re looking at a chip or crack, don’t wait until the damage spreads because this will affect the cost. If you do need a full replacement, there’s often a specific deductible for glass separate from other policy deductibles.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Windshield?

The cost for a full replacement varies. The size of the vehicle is one key factor — a large truck windshield will likely cost more than one for a two-seater convertible. Another factor is the vehicle’s model and technology. Many newer windshields use glass with special features like built-in rain sensors and heating mechanisms to reduce ice and snow build-up. Advanced driver assistance features, like sensors integrated into the windshield or mounted on it, also affect the replacement cost.

At a basic level, however, without factoring in insurance, you’re typically looking at between $100 and $400 for a replacement. A collectible or luxury model costs more like $1,500 on average but could be nearly $3,000 or more. If you’re doing it yourself, specialized tools might save you some money and make the job easier.

There’s a good chance your windshield will have damage from road debris, weather or an accident at some point. Address the problem quickly, and you may be able to do a simple repair or replacement and get back to driving safely.

Check out all the windshield-related products available on NAPA Online, or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on what to do about windshield damage, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photo courtesy Flickr.

Nicole Wakelin View All

Nicole Wakelin covers the automotive industry as a freelance journalist for a variety of outlets. Her work includes news pieces, podcasts, radio, written reviews, and video reviews. She can be found in The Boston Globe, CarGurus, BestRide, US News and World Report, and AAA along with lifestyle blogs like Be Car Chic, The Other PTA, and She Buys Cars. She is active on social media with a large following on both Twitter and Instagram and currently serves as Vice President of the New England Motor Press Association.

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