7 Most Frequently Asked Questions: Auto Glass Repair & Windshield Replacement

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1) How can I tell if my car needs a windshield repair or windshield replacement?

There are three main ways to tell whether you need a windshield replacement or a windshield repair:

  1.  Size: If the total area of the chip or crack is larger than the size of a Quarter, a windshield replacement is necessary.
  2. Depth:If the chip or crack has penetrated more than 1 layer of your windshield, a windshield replacement is necessary.
  3. Area: If the chip or crack is in the driver’s line of sight, a replacement will be necessary, and you may even be ticketed (depending on your respective local laws).

2) How much do auto glass services like windshield repair & windshield replacement cost?

A typical windshield repair will cost between $90 – $150 whereas a windshield replacement will vary greatly based on your vehicle and its features; a Windshield Replacement will range anywhere between $200 – $1000+. It is best to call your local auto glass experts to find out exactly how much the total will be. Make sure to check with your vehicle insurance provider to see if you have auto glass coverage, as you can potentially save some money.

3) How long do auto glass repair, auto glass replacement, windshield replacement or windshield repair services take to complete?

A Door window replacement can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the year, make and model of the car. But typically, it will be on the lower end—about 30 to 60 minutes. This applies to power, movable or stationary windows.

A Windshield Repair will take about 30 to 45 minutes to finish. 

Windshield replacements will vary greatly based on the year, make and model of your vehicle. A new car with top of the line features may take 2 to 3 hours to complete, whereas a simple windshield can take 30 to 90 minutes.

4) Will my insurance cover auto glass repairs or replacements?

Whether your insurance covers auto glass repairs or auto glass replacements depends on your specific policy. In general, if you have comprehensive coverage, it’s more likely that your insurance will cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

Comprehensive coverage typically covers damage that occurs to your vehicle that is not caused by a collision, and it may also cover damage to your auto glass, such as cracks or chips.

However, it’s important to note that every insurance policy has different deductibles and coverage limits, so it’s best to check with your provider to learn more. Additionally, some insurance providers may require you to use a specific repair shop or have restrictions on the type of repairs that can be done. Luckily, AFG Auto Glass is contracted with all insurance providers so we have you covered!

5) What is the best way to clean auto glass?

Cleaning your vehicle’s auto glass can be tricky, it requires a method that removes dirt, grime, and streaks without leaving behind any residue or damage to the glass. Here are some tips/steps from our professionals!:

  1. Choose an appropriate window/glass cleaner: It’s important to use a cleaner that is specifically formulated for glass. Avoid using household cleaners, they can leave streaks or damage the tint on the glass. You can find a variety of glass cleaners at your local auto parts store. Using the same glass cleaner as your home’s windows should also work fine!
  2. Use a microfiber towel: A microfiber towel is ideal for cleaning auto glass because it is gentle on the surface and doesn’t leave behind any residue! Avoid using paper towels or newspaper, as rough surfaces like paper can scratch the glass & normal towels or napkins will leave residue.
  3. Start with a completely dry surface: Before applying anything to the glass, make sure it is completely dry. This will help prevent streaking once you begin.
  4. Cover the entire surface of the glass with the cleaner. Be careful not to spray onto any electronic components or upholstery.
  5. Wipe with the microfiber towel starting at the top of the glass and work your way down, using a circular motion. Make sure to use a dry side of the towel to buff the glass once all the cleaner is gone.

  6. Repeat if necessary: If your auto glass is particularly dirty or has streaks, you may need to repeat the cleaning process.

6) What are the different types of auto glass?

Source & Quality:

Original/Dealer: This is the auto glass that is made by the same manufacturer that supplied the glass for your vehicle when it was originally built. It is often considered to be the highest quality glass available (even though OEM glass has the same specifications), but it can also be the most expensive. This glass is typically only available through authorized dealerships by special request/order.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): This auto glass is made by a different company than the one that supplied the glass for your vehicle when it was originally built, but it is made to the same specifications as the original glass. OEM glass is often less expensive than the Original/Dealer’s, but it is still considered to be high-quality glass and is built to the same material and safety specifications as the original. This is the glass that almost all Auto Glass companies will use when installing a new window or windshield in your car.

Aftermarket/OEE (Original Equipment Equivalent): Aftermarket glass is made by companies that are not affiliated with the original manufacturer, but they are made to the same specifications as the original glass. OEE/Aftermarket glass is typically the least expensive option, and it can vary in quality. Some aftermarket glass may be made using lower-quality materials, which can affect its durability and safety. At AFG Auto Glass, we will almost never use OEE or Aftermarket glass (with the only exception being direct requests). Many times, if a price quote seems too good to be true, it’s because the company is using aftermarket parts – so always be sure to ask! But be very wary if you do decide to install aftermarket glass in your vehicle, as some extremely cheap kinds will jeopardize your vehicle’s safety.

Type of Glass:
 
Laminated glass: This is the most common type of auto glass used for windshields or the back glass. It is made up of two layers of glass with a layer of clear plastic in between. The layers are bonded together using heat and pressure to create a strong and durable glass that can resist shattering upon impact. Laminated glass is also used for some side and rear windows. This type of glass will crack (and stay together) but not shatter when broken.

Tempered glass: This type of glass is typically used for side, rear, or the back glass. It is created by heating the glass to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it, which creates a strong and durable glass that is resistant to shattering. When it does break, it shatters into many small, round pieces, rather than sharp, pointy shards.

7) What are the most common ways that auto glass breaks?

  1. Impact from an object: Things like rocks, gravel, debris, and other objects can hit your windshield while driving, causing chips, cracks, or even shattered glass. These small chips and cracks can grow very quickly in size, especially if the temperature changes rapidly throughout the day/night.
  2. Temperature changes: Extreme temperature changes, such as rapid heating or cooling, can cause auto glass to expand or contract, leading to cracks or shattered glass. For this reason, it is important to get your windshield repaired or replaced quickly.
  3. Accidents & collisions: Auto accidents can cause significant damage to the vehicle’s glass, including the windshield, side windows, and rear window.
  4. Vandalism & theft: Criminals may try to break auto glass to gain access to the vehicle or steal items inside. This is especially common in cities. The best way to prevent being targeted by one of these attacks is to never leave any objects visible in your car when it is unattended. If you have anything valuable, store it in your car’s lockable trunk, lockable glove compartment or center console storage if available. As long as everything is out of sight, your chances will be better.
  5. Wear and tear: Over time, auto glass can become worn, making it more susceptible to cracking or breaking.

“Is there a difference between mobile auto glass service vs in shop?”

2 thoughts on “7 Most Frequently Asked Questions: Auto Glass Repair & Windshield Replacement”

  1. Phew! I felt so much better after you reassured us that it only takes several hours at most for our windshield to be fully replaced. The one in my car got damaged last night after a bird flew directly into it. I’ll just send it to an auto repair shop for further inspection.

  2. It was helpful to learn that a new car with advanced features needs more time in terms of windshield replacement. We have a Lexus RX 2023 model. I’m not sure if that has top-of-the-line features, but it’s definitely a new car.

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