Local Services
Rock Chip Repair vs Windshield Replacement: Complete Guide
Blackout Window Tinting
6 min read
Should you repair that rock chip or replace the whole windshield? Learn when each option makes sense, cost differences, and what insurance covers.
That rock kicked up by the truck on 101 left its mark on your windshield. Now you're wondering: repair or replace?
The answer depends on size, location, and how quickly you act. Here's the complete guide.
When Rock Chip Repair Works
Chip repair is a resin injection process that fills the damaged area, restoring structural integrity and preventing the crack from spreading. It costs less, takes less time, and often yields invisible results.
Repair is possible when:
| Factor | Repair-Friendly | Needs Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Chip size | Smaller than a quarter | Larger than a quarter |
| Crack length | Under 6 inches | Over 6 inches |
| Location | Not in driver's direct view | In critical sight line |
| Edge distance | 2+ inches from edge | Touching the edge |
| Damage type | Single point impact | Multiple impacts or spider web |
Ideal Candidates for Repair
- Bulls-eye chips: Circular damage from direct impact
- Star breaks: Short cracks radiating from impact point
- Half-moon chips: Semi-circular damage
- Surface pits: Small nicks that haven't penetrated fully
Cost Comparison
| Option | Typical Cost | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chip repair | $50–$100 per chip | 15–30 minutes | Often invisible |
| Crack repair (under 6") | $75–$125 | 30–45 minutes | Visible but stable |
| Full replacement | $200–$1,000+ | 1–3 hours | Brand new glass |
When Replacement Is Required
Some damage simply can't be repaired. The glass structure is too compromised, or the repair would impair visibility.
Replacement is necessary when:
- Crack reaches the edge — Edge-to-edge cracks compromise structural integrity
- Multiple impact points — Too many damaged areas to repair effectively
- Damage in camera zone — ADAS cameras need optically perfect glass
- Contamination — Dirt or moisture has entered the crack (acts quickly!)
- Previous repair failed — Already-repaired chips that have spread
- Deep damage — Chips that penetrate through to the inner layer
The 48-Hour Rule
Time matters. Chip repairs are most successful when done within 48 hours of impact.
Why? Every temperature change causes microscopic crack growth. Every bump in the road adds stress. Dirt and moisture work their way into the damage.
A chip that could have been invisibly repaired on day one often becomes a mandatory replacement by week two.
Cost Factors: What Determines Price?
For Chip Repair
- Number of chips — Most shops charge per chip
- Damage severity — Complex breaks cost more
- Mobile vs in-shop — Mobile service may add convenience fee
For Replacement
The full picture on replacement costs:
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Luxury/exotic = higher |
| Glass type | OEM vs aftermarket |
| ADAS calibration | Adds $150–$400 |
| Special features | Rain sensors, HUD, heated |
| Labor rates | Bay Area runs 10-20% higher |
Full replacement cost breakdown →
Insurance Coverage
With Full Glass Coverage
Many California comprehensive policies include zero-deductible glass coverage:
- Chip repairs: Usually fully covered
- Replacement: Fully covered
- No premium increase for claims
Check your policy for "Full Glass" or "Zero Deductible Glass."
With Standard Comprehensive
Your deductible applies:
- If repair costs less than deductible: Pay out-of-pocket
- If replacement exceeds deductible: Insurance pays the difference
Strategic Thinking
Always file for repairs — they're typically covered with no deductible and no rate impact.
Consider deductible for replacement — if your deductible is $500 and replacement is $550, paying cash avoids a claim on your record.
Quality Considerations
Repair Quality Varies
Not all chip repairs are equal:
Quality repair includes:
- Proper resin selection for chip type
- Complete air evacuation from damage
- UV curing for full hardness
- Polishing for optical clarity
Cheap repairs often:
- Leave visible marks or cloudiness
- Use inferior resin that yellows over time
- Fail to fully fill the damage
- Need to be redone before replacement anyway
Replacement Quality Matters More
Windshield replacement affects your safety. Key factors:
- Glass quality — OEM matches factory specs exactly
- Adhesive quality — Premium urethane for proper bonding
- Cure time — Never drive immediately after replacement
- ADAS calibration — Required for modern safety features
Learn about ADAS calibration →
Our Approach
At Blackout, we offer both repair and replacement—and we'll honestly tell you which you need.
For repairs:
- Quick assessment while you wait
- Premium resin system
- Satisfaction guarantee
For replacement:
- OEM and quality aftermarket options
- On-site ADAS calibration
- Insurance claim assistance
- Lifetime installation warranty
Making the Decision
Choose repair when:
- Damage is small and isolated
- Not in critical vision areas
- Glass is otherwise in good condition
- You want to save money and time
Choose replacement when:
- Damage is too large or complex
- Structural integrity is compromised
- Previous repairs have failed
- You need perfect optical clarity
When in doubt: Get an assessment. A good shop will show you exactly what you're dealing with and explain your options honestly.
Get Your Chip Assessed
Learn more: Auto Glass Services — chip repair and windshield replacement.
📞 Contact us — Send a photo for quick assessment
📍 Visit our shop — Free in-person evaluation
