How can I use Progressive windshield replacement?

Yes, you should use insurance to repair or replace your windshield if it would cost more than your deductible to pay out of pocket for the work. If the deductible exceeds the repair or replacement cost, the insurer will not cover any of it and filing a claim would be pointless. A glass repair claim may cause your premium to increase slightly because of the cost to your insurer. But even if your rate does go up, it will only be by about 2%, compared to around 40% for an accident claim. ... read full answer

Glass damage is usually covered by comprehensive insurance, which pays for repairs after damage caused by something other than an accident, such as natural disasters or vandalism. Comprehensive coverage deductibles vary between policies, but they can range from $50 to $2,000. By comparison, fixing a windshield costs between $100 and $400, depending on the extent of the damage.

There are some instances when your glass deductible will be lower than your comprehensive deductible, too. In Florida, South Carolina, and Kentucky, drivers cannot be charged a deductible for windshield repair or replacement. In Arizona, Connecticut, Minnesota, and New York, drivers can choose a lower deductible specifically for glass repair. And some insurance companies, like Geico, will waive the deductible for windshield repair altogether regardless of where you live.

If you do use insurance to repair or replace your windshield, you should file a claim as soon as possible. Even a small chip can become more significant over time, so you should fix the damage before it becomes a safety hazard.

It costs $100 to $400 to replace a windshield without car insurance. The exact amount you will have to pay to replace your windshield will vary based on a number of factors including the year, make, model, and trim of your car.

Replacing the windshield of a new, luxury vehicle loaded with features could cost twice as much as replacing the glass of an older, economy car. The type of glass used is another factor that greatly influences your final price.... read full answer

Difference Between OEM and Aftermarket Windshield Replacement Cost

Aftermarket windshields cost around $100 less than OEM (original equipment manufacturer) glass. But AAA warns that using lower-quality parts might be a risk. Bargain windshields may create optical distortions that make it harder to drive.

Another safety concern with aftermarket parts is fit. Your windshield helps to support the roof and structure of your car in an accident and plays a critical role in airbag deployment. If it doesn’t fit perfectly, you’re less safe in the event of a crash.

How Much Does it Cost to Repair a Windshield?

It generally costs between $50 and $150 to repair a cracked windshield, but it could cost less in some cases. Usually, the smaller the chip, the cheaper it will be to repair.

Even without insurance, windshield repair or replacement should be pretty affordable. But if you do have insurance, it’s possible that you may not have to pay anything at all. Many insurers offer $0 or low deductible glass claims as part of comprehensive coverage.

When You Should Replace Your Windshield

In general, your windshield needs to be replaced if it has a fissure larger than a dollar bill or a chip that’s larger than a quarter. If the damage is small and falls out of the driver’s line of sight, it can usually be repaired rather than replaced.

Car insurance does cover windshield replacement if you have comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive car insurance protects your car from damage caused by something other than a collision with another vehicle. It can help pay for windshield damage caused by tree branches falling, rocks or debris on the roadway while driving, acts of vandalism, and collisions with animals (like a deer).... read full answer

If your windshield was damaged in a car accident and the other driver was at fault, their liability insurance should pay for your windshield repair or replacement. If you are at fault in the accident, you will have to file a claim under collision insurance, which covers the damage after you pay your deductible.

Although comprehensive insurance usually has a deductible, too, some companies have a reduced or even $0 deductible for comprehensive windshield claims. Florida, Massachusetts, South Carolina, and Kentucky have laws requiring that comprehensive policies pay in full for windshield replacement. In Arizona, Connecticut, Minnesota and New York, drivers have the ability to choose a lower or $0 deductible for glass claims when they set up their comprehensive policy. This lower deductible is different than the driver’s standard comprehensive deductible, which is usually $500 or $1,000.

Windshield damage might not cost you anything if you have comprehensive coverage, but you should check with your insurer about your policy details. Windshield repair and replacement is usually affordable, so the cost might be less than your deductible. If that’s the case, you won’t be able to file a claim anyway. If the cost is just over that of your deductible, it might not be worth filing a claim and paying higher premiums over time in order to save on windshield replacement right now.