Common FAQs for Windshield Replacement

Imagine this: You're out in your car driving in peace on a perfect summer day, and snap! A stray pebble hits your windshield, leaving it with a gaping fissure and you with a frown. Such a picture is not uncommon for many long-time car owners, who, time and time again, have had to deal with damaged or broken windshields.

But if you're not a seasoned vehicle owner, a crack in your vehicle's windscreen can be frustrating, and especially when the damage is directly in your line-of-sight. So, it's better to opt for a windshield replacement service right away, as it can be extremely unsafe to drive your car when your visibility is limited.

Also, another critical reason to opt for windshield replacement right away is that the more you wait to get it fixed, the more the crack will grow, costing your safety further.

And if you aren't a windshield replacement veteran, you probably might have lots of questions plaguing your mind. So, here are some of the most common questions asked by people when looking for a windshield replacement.

Is It Dangerous to Drive With Damaged Windshield?

If the crack in your car windshield obstructs your visibility in any manner, it makes driving your vehicle so much dangerous. Moreover, there are several other dangers associated with a cracked windshield, besides hampering your vision.

A windshield is an essential part of your vehicle. Along with providing visibility and protection against dust and stray particles, the windscreen also imparts structural integrity to your car in the event of a crash. In case of an accident, a fully intact, unblemished windshield can transfer the impact force from the front end of the vehicle directly to the chassis, without affecting the interior.

A windscreen with a crack in it, especially a huge one, will not offer much in the protection department, neither for you nor the passengers. Moreover, an utterly unmarred windshield can also prevent your car’s roof from caving in during a rollover.

How Much Time Does it Take to Replace or Repair a Windshield?

A typical windshield repair merely requires 15-30 minutes of your time. A windshield replacement, on the other hand, can take up to 45-60 minutes. Even so, the vital thing to remember is that a repair has almost zero standby time, whereas you will need to wait a few hours to drive your car after a windshield replacement.

The main reason behind this additional waiting time is the adhesive, and the time it takes to cure and bond correctly with your car's windshield frame. Taking your car out for a ride straight after your windshield’s been replaced can result in an improper fit, thereby reducing the life cycle of your new windshield, and racking up your expenses further.

How Will I Know if My Windshield Needs to be Replaced or Repaired?

It is, quite possibly, the biggest dilemma car owners face when confronted by a damaged windshield. Well, most minor chips, at the most two, with a diameter of not more than 40mm can be easily repaired. Anything beyond it warrants windshield replacement. Also, a chip that sits directly on the driver’s line-of-sight qualifies for an auto glass replacement.

And remember, only tiny chips qualify for a repair, not cracks. Repairing cracks can cause issues in windshield's structural integrity, and hence, always require a replacement.

OEM vs Aftermarket Windshield Glass: Which One is Better?

OEM, or Original Equipment Manufacturer windshield glass refers to the windscreen glass that is manufactured by the same company as your original glass. In short, you will be replacing your windshield with its exact replica if you choose to go with an OEM glass.

Aftermarket glass, on the other hand, is manufactured by an entirely different manufacturer. Mostly, aftermarket glasses tend to cost you less during windshield replacement. But the real question is which one is better?

Aftermarket windshields, apart from costing you less, can also offer you a lot of choices during windshield replacement. However, what gets compromised in the process is the quality of the glass. OEM windshields also are of high quality, and fit better on your car, even though it might cost you more. But safety should never have a price tag!

Will My Car Insurance Cover the Costs of Windshield Replacement?

Whether or not your car insurance covers windshield replacement depends solely on the inclusions of your policy. Standard insurances might cover the cost of replacements but may charge you with deductibles during claim intimation. Premium car insurance, on the other hand, can get you up to 100% coverage on windshield replacement cost, without charging you any additional deductibles.

So, it's wise to go for an all-inclusive insurance policy when buying your car.

Got a cracked windshield and a ton of questions? Worry not, we, at AIS Windshield Experts, have got solutions for both. As India’s largest network of windshield repair and replacement, we guarantee a hassle-free and swift service, along with providing answers to all your questions.  So, connect with AIS Windshield Experts today – your one-stop-shop for all windshield-related needs!