If your damaged windshield needs repairs, whether due to a loose bit of debris on the road or a rogue golf ball, it can certainly disrupt your daily plans. Like many drivers, the first thing you may want to figure out is where you can go to have your windshield replaced and how much this type of fix costs.
The certified experts at Rydell Auto Body and Glass in Grand Forks can help clear up those questions. We wanted to share this information so you can always be prepared no matter what happens out on the road.
How Much Will My Windshield Replacement Cost?
On average, a windshield replacement will cost anywhere from $200 to $400. The cost for your windshield replacement is determined not only by the type of auto glass company you hire for the job but also where your car is fixed. If, for example, you schedule a mobile appointment while you’re at work, that may cost you more money out of pocket.
An insurance company will only cover your expenses if you drop your car off at a shop. The rates for an in-shop fix at an auto body shop are typically lower than having a mechanic come out to you.
Let’s take a look at other considerations at play that determine the dollar amount of a windshield replacement.
What Affects the Cost of a New Windshield Replacement?
While the price for a new windshield will vary between different car models and providers, there are definite factors that have an influence on the cost. The make, model, and year of your vehicle is one of the things to consider when you start to get estimates. Typically, the cost to replace the windshield on a brand new, luxury car that’s filled to the brim with gizmos and gadgets, like rain sensors, is nearly twice that of an economy vehicle that’s got some years on it.
You’ll also notice that the type of glass your mechanic uses for the replacement will have a marked difference on the price. This is especially true if you would like to have the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) glass installed. Most OEM parts cost a bit more than aftermarket parts since they were designed by the manufacturer of your car and with the specifications needed to fit your car perfectly.
Of course, you can help yourself save some money by comparing quotes from different providers to ensure that you’re paying the best price for the service you need.
When Should I Replace My Windshield?
The moment you see any sort of damage to your windshield, such as from a recent hail storm, you should schedule an appointment with your local body shop to have the glass replaced or, at the very least, repaired. A small crack or chip may seem innocuous at first, but these can grow or, as it’s commonly called, “spider web” over time. The larger cracks that can form if the glass isn’t taken care of quickly have the potential to become not only a danger to you but your passengers as well.
You may not realize it, but the windshield of your car is actually a very important safety feature; it is actually labeled as a “safety device.” The windshield assists your car in maintaining its structure. For example, if your car were to flip over in an accident, the windshield would keep the roof from caving in on you.
It also supports the performance of your car’s passenger-side airbags. This is why you should never hesitate to schedule an appointment with a mechanic if you discover that you have any chips or cracks in the windshield of your car.
Can I Replace My Windshield Myself?
If you’re trying to save money, you may be tempted to experiment with a home adhesive kit; however, this is not an advisable course of action. A home adhesive kit may sound great, but if applied incorrectly, it can lead to leaks in your windshield and further repairs, which will cost you more money in the long run. There are also several different types of adhesives and each one must set for a certain amount of time before it is safe for you to drive your car again.
Of course, a low-quality installation by an unreliable repair shop can result in the windshield separating from your car if you were ever to get into an accident. In order to avoid a circumstance like this, choose a reputable company that has certified and insured technicians ready to help you with your windshield replacement.
How Can I Ensure a High Quality Repair?
Since your windshield plays a large role in driver and passenger safety, it is incredibly important to make sure that you are getting a top-quality job done when you have your windshield replaced.
In order to do so, you’ll need to keep an eye out for a few things. You should only bring your car into a body shop that can adhere to all adhesive-manufacturer’s instructions. They must use products that are approved by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
A reputable body shop will carry adequate insurance for their business and provide you with a written warranty. This includes a detailed record of the work that has been completed for you. Ascertain that the quality of the auto glass adhesive is topnotch; verify the quality of the replacement windshield glass as well.
A reliable body shop has certified technicians standing by to assist you. You shouldn’t have to wait too long to get back out on the road again either. An expert technician can typically execute a replacement the same day you drop your car off.
Contact Rydell Auto Body and Glass for Windshield Repair
We hope this article has illustrated why windshield replacements play an important role in increasing your car’s lifespan and keeping you safe. If you ever need your windshield replaced or have any questions about a windshield repair, contact the Rydell Auto Body and Glass. Our certified technicians work passionately to keep you safe for whatever adventures await you out on the road.
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