How Much Does It Cost For a Windshield Replacement

What is Windshield Damage?

The windshield, as an important component of the car, is made of laminated glass. This type of glass features a layer of PVB film between two glass sheets, which helps the glass maintain its integrity and excellent toughness even when broken. Windshield damage refers to various physical damages to the car's front window, which can be caused by factors such as flying debris, temperature changes, and collisions. If not repaired in time, it may affect the driver’s visibility, the vehicle's structural strength, and overall safety.

Common types of windshield damage are as follows:

Type	Description
Crack	Caused by high-speed impact from a blunt hard object; linear spreading, long length, prone to expansion.
Starburst	Caused by impact from a sharp hard object; radiating fine cracks from a central impact point.
Bull's eye	Caused by small rock impact; circular depression with smooth edges, resembling a bullseye.
Compound Damage	Caused by high-speed impact from a pointed hard object; combines star-shaped cracks and bullseye depression.
Chip	Glass fragments chipping away; surface cracks with a small notch.
Edge Crack	Caused by stress concentration or sealing issues; originates from the edge of the glass.

Here is the schematic of the windshield damage types:

Diagram of each type of windshield damage

2 Options for Dealing with a Damaged Windshield

Whether to repair or replace a windshield after a crack appears mainly depends on the size and location of the crack.

Repair:
Only cracks on the outer layer of the glass are suitable for repair, such as star-shaped and linear cracks.
Small cracks that do not affect the driver's primary line of sight.
Replacement:
Severe cracks (over 15cm in length).
Cracks located within the driver's line of sight that impact visibility and safety.

When To Replace a Windshield？

If the crack is large or located within the driver's line of sight, it is recommended to replace the windshield with a new one. Large cracks can pose a safety risk, especially when driving at high speeds or in adverse weather conditions, as the crack may further expand, severely impacting the driver’s visibility. In such cases, replacing the windshield is undoubtedly the safest choice.

Why You Should Scan Your Vehicle Before and After Windshield Replacement?

Modern car windshields integrate the "eyes" of intelligent driving systems, including lane-keeping cameras, automatic windshield wiper sensors, light sensors, and other precision devices. Before and after replacing the windshield, using an OBD2 scanner for vehicle diagnostics is crucial to ensure the proper functioning of the electronic systems related to the windshield, especially advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Scan Your Vehicle Before Windshield Replacement:

By using the OBD2 scanner to read the vehicle's fault codes, potential issues unrelated to the windshield (such as engine, transmission, etc.) can be identified and excluded, preventing any confusion between subsequent actions and existing faults.
The OBD2 scanner records the status of the ADAS system, providing a baseline for calibration after the windshield replacement.
If fault codes related to sensors are found (such as "camera calibration lost"), communication with the repair personnel can be initiated in advance to ensure protective measures are taken during the replacement process.

Scan Your Vehicle After Windshield Replacement:

The OBD2 scanner can help detect connection issues with sensors around the windshield (such as ADAS systems, automatic emergency braking, etc.). If not properly connected, it may trigger new fault codes, and the OBD2 tool can assist in troubleshooting wiring or communication problems.
The OBD2 scanner can compare backup data from before the replacement to ensure successful calibration.
Some vehicles' electronic control units (ECUs) may require an OBD tool reset or a learning process after the windshield replacement.

If your windshield integrates advanced ADAS systems, it is recommended to use the FOXWELL NT1009. This full-system diagnostic scanner features ADAS sensor calibration guidance and supports sensor detection, system reset, and other functions.

Type	Function
Before Replacement	Check existing fault codes; Document/backup ADAS system status; Anticipate potential risks
After Replacement	Detect new fault codes; Verify ADAS functionality; Check sensor connections; System reset and recalibration

How Much Does a Windshield Replacement Cost?

The simple answer is that the average cost of windshield replacement typically ranges between $200 and $550 for most standard vehicles. However, for luxury cars or newer models with ADAS systems (produced after 2016), the actual cost can significantly increase. Even when opting for non-OEM glass, the ADAS calibration alone can add $200 to $400, potentially doubling the overall replacement cost. In some cases, the cost may exceed $1,000.

Front Windshield Replacement Cost vs. Back Windshield Replacement Cost

Since the rear windshield does not have ADAS-related equipment, the replacement cost is generally lower than that of the front windshield. However, configurations such as heating wires or antennas may be integrated, which can increase the replacement cost. For regular economy sedans, the basic rear windshield replacement cost is around $200 to $600. If the glass integrates features like heating wires, a hidden antenna, or a high-mounted brake light, the price may increase by 30% to 50%. The core factor affecting the rear windshield cost is the level of technological integration. Rear windshields with heating functions require special conductive glass, which is 1.5 to 2 times more expensive than regular glass, and precise connection of the electrical circuit module is necessary during installation, adding $50 to $100 in labor costs. Some luxury models, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, integrate a radio signal amplifier into the rear windshield, which can incur an additional $150 to $300 for electronic component calibration. In summary, some seemingly minor design differences can lead to hidden costs of $50 to $150. However, overall, rear windshield replacement costs are still lower than those of the front windshield.

Factors that Affect Windshield Replacement

In addition to the impact of ADAS technology, the cost of windshield replacement is also influenced by various factors, including the vehicle model, brand, glass size, material type, and whether it is OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass.

OEM Windshield: The price of OEM glass is usually more than twice that of aftermarket parts.

Size and Model: Windshields for larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, are typically more expensive than those for smaller cars.

Glass Material: Windshield materials include tempered glass and laminated glass. Laminated glass, due to its excellent impact resistance, is often priced higher.

Model Differences: Generally, the glass cost for high-end and luxury vehicles is higher.

Does Car Insurance Cover Windshield Replacement?

Whether auto insurance covers windshield replacement depends on the type of coverage you have and the cause of the damage.

If you have Comprehensive Coverage, windshield damage caused by non-collision incidents such as flying debris, hail, or falling branches is typically fully covered. Many insurance companies even waive the deductible and cover 100% of the repair costs (for cracks smaller than 6 inches). However, if a full windshield replacement is necessary, you may still need to pay the deductible. For example, if your deductible is $500, you would need to pay that amount, with the insurance company covering the rest.

If the windshield damage is caused by a traffic accident (e.g., shattering after a collision), you will need to claim through Collision Coverage, which also follows the deductible rules. However, there is an invisible cost trade-off: frequent claims may cause your premiums to rise the following year. Therefore, when the out-of-pocket cost is close to the deductible (e.g., replacement costs $800 and the deductible is $500), it's recommended to compare the cost of self-repair first. For minor damage (such as small cracks), paying out-of-pocket can maintain a "no-claim record" and save more in the long run. Some specialized glass service providers offer discounted prices, making self-repair potentially cheaper than filing a claim and avoiding premium increases.

Three key reminders:

Drivers with only **Liability Insurance** are not eligible for windshield coverage.
The ADAS calibration cost for electric vehicles may not be included in basic claims and may be considered an "additional service" by some insurers.
In states like Florida and Kentucky, the law mandates zero deductible for glass insurance, allowing local drivers to directly contact the insurance company for free replacement.

It’s recommended to handle the repair through certified service centers partnered with your insurance company to ensure service quality and avoid potential future claims disputes caused by third-party repairs.

Tips To Save Money on Replacing a Windshield

Avoid following large vehicles closely to prevent damage from flying debris.
When parking, choose indoor spaces or areas away from construction zones, and avoid parking under trees to prevent falling debris
In winter, never pour hot water directly to defrost the windshield; use a dedicated windshield frost cover instead.
Worn-out wiper blades can scratch the glass, so check and replace them every six months.
When cleaning the glass, use a soft cloth to avoid scratching from sand or grit.

Can you drive with a cracked windshield?

Whether you can continue driving with a cracked windshield depends on the location, type, and risk of expansion of the crack. If the crack is not in the driver's primary line of sight and does not extend to the edge of the glass, and is small damage like a coin-sized star-shaped crack, cautious driving is possible in the short term, typically allowing a 1-2 week grace period to arrange for repairs. However, if the crack exceeds 6 inches (about 15 cm), it is recommended to stop driving immediately and repair it as soon as possible. This type of damage carries a higher risk, as the glass could shatter instantly during a collision, and temperature fluctuations in winter or vibrations from high-speed driving can accelerate the crack's expansion. Therefore, to ensure your safety, it is crucial to address windshield cracks in a timely manner

How Much Does It Cost For a Windshield Replacement?