Tips & Advice
Windshield Chip Repair vs Replacement: Making the Right Call
Blackout Window Tinting
6 min read
Should you repair or replace your chipped windshield? Learn the repair criteria, insurance considerations, and when replacement is the only safe option.
Chip Repair vs Windshield Replacement
That rock chip is staring at you every drive. But does it need a $500+ replacement or a $50 repair? Here's how to decide.
When Chip Repair Works
Repair is possible if:
- Chip is smaller than a quarter
- Crack is less than 3 inches
- Damage is not in driver's line of sight
- Edges are not severely damaged
- Less than 3 damaged areas
- Chip hasn't been contaminated (dirt, moisture)
Repair success rate: 85-95% for qualifying damage
When Replacement Is Required
Replace if:
- Crack is longer than 6 inches
- Damage is in driver's sight line
- Crack reaches to edge of glass
- Multiple impact points
- Damage compromises structural integrity
- Previous repair failed
Size and Location Guidelines
| Damage Type | Repair Possible | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small chip (dime-size) | Yes | Best results |
| Medium chip (quarter-size) | Usually | Depends on location |
| Large chip (dollar coin) | Rarely | Assessment needed |
| Short crack (<3") | Yes | If not spreading |
| Medium crack (3-6") | Maybe | Professional assessment |
| Long crack (6"+) | No | Replacement required |
| Edge damage | No | Structural compromise |
| Driver view damage | No | Safety concern |
The Repair Process
How chip repair works:
- Clean and dry the damaged area
- Inject clear resin into chip
- Cure with UV light
- Polish surface smooth
- Resin fills and bonds crack
Time required: 20-30 minutes Cost: $50-100 per chip
Why Location Matters
Driver's line of sight:
- Even perfect repairs leave slight distortion
- That distortion can cause eye fatigue
- At night, headlights can create glare
- Safety standards require replacement here
Near edges:
- Cracks spread easily from edges
- Structural windshield zone
- Temperature changes accelerate spreading
Insurance Considerations
California specifics:
- Many policies cover chip repair at $0 deductible
- Replacement may require deductible
- Check your comprehensive coverage
- Some insurers prefer repair (cheaper for them)
Filing a claim:
- Document damage with photos
- Measure size and location
- Contact insurer for approved shops
- Most repairs don't affect premiums
Temperature Urgency
Why act fast:
- Heat causes glass to expand
- Cold causes contraction
- This stress spreads cracks quickly
- Bay Area temperature swings accelerate damage
Tip: Cover with clear tape temporarily to prevent contamination.
Prevention After Repair
Protect your investment:
- Avoid pressure washers on windshield
- Don't slam doors (pressure wave)
- Park in shade when possible
- Consider windshield protection film
DIY Kits vs Professional Repair
| Approach | Cost | Success Rate | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY kit | $10-20 | 50-70% | None |
| Professional | $50-100 | 85-95% | Usually included |
| Dealer | $100-150 | 90%+ | Full |
Our recommendation: Professional repair costs only $30-50 more than DIY with much better results.
Our Assessment Policy
We evaluate every chip honestly:
- If repair is possible and safe, we recommend it
- If replacement is needed, we explain why
- We never upsell replacement unnecessarily
- Written assessment before any work
📞 Got a chip? Schedule free assessment
