It is the most important part of your vehicle. The windshield protects your car and you from the wind, rain and even snow.

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When the glass fails, it can cause major problems. For small cracks and chips, windshield repair is usually the first choice. However, more severe damage may require replacement.

Cost

Windshield Replacement costs vary by location, service provider and type of damage. Typical prices range from $60 to $100 for a chip, and discounts may apply when fixing multiple chips on the same windshield.

Costs can also be significantly higher if your vehicle has advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) or other technology that needs to be replaced. For example, head-up displays and rain sensors can add hundreds of dollars to the total price.

Brand and model of your vehicle can also affect the cost. Some manufacturers require specific windshields that are only available through their dealer. They can cost up to three times more than standard glass on non-luxury cars.

Downtime

Windshield replacement is a lengthy process that can take days, sometimes weeks. This is due to the fact that the adhesive used to affix the windshield has to cure before the glass can be safely driven away.

You should not drive your car immediately after installation to avoid road vibrations and debris. It is also important to not clean the windshield immediately after installation. This will allow the adhesive time to set and dry.

Safe drive-away times, or SDAT, vary by type of windshield, the weather and other factors, but your technician should let you know if it is safe for you to drive the vehicle.

This is because the glue that holds the windshield in place cannot be cured until your vehicle sits unmoved for several hours after the replacement. In addition, it is important to note that the safe drive-away time varies greatly depending on the outdoor air temperature and humidity levels.

Safety

Windshields are an integral part of a vehicle and have been designed to provide safety properties that help protect passengers from flying debris. In the event of a vehicle rollover, they also provide structural integrity and airbag protection.

The number of injuries has decreased and occupant safety has increased with the advancements in windshield glass. Federal regulations require laminated safety glass windshields.

It is safer to drive with tempered glass than with glass that shatter into knives-like pieces.

However, this process also means that windshields have to be replaced when they break. Safelite recommends that you replace a damaged glass whenever possible.

In addition to protecting the occupants of a vehicle, windshields are also critical for helping a car`s computer and advanced safety systems function properly. If a windshield is damaged, it may not be able to correctly read a camera that controls advanced safety features, such as lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.

Insurance

Windshields can crack and chip from extreme temperature fluctuations, potholes and stray stones. This type of accident can result in significant damage. That`s why you should have coverage for windshield replacement or repair.

Call your insurer if you are unsure whether or not your policy covers the replacement of your windshield. You can usually fill out a form to verify the policy.

You may be able to get your windshield replaced without having to pay your deductible if it`s covered under your comprehensive or collision coverage. However, this coverage is often not available in all states.

You could also opt to add windshield replacement coverage to your minimum liability insurance. This option can be purchased for a monthly or annual fee.