If you’re in the process of researching auto glass repair companies and pricing out their services, you’ve probably run across several companies that offer warranties on their work. And while a guarantee can afford you extra peace of mind, that guarantee usually has its limitations — it’s not necessarily a free pass for new auto glass should future damage occur.
But without knowing how these warranties work, it’s easy to make an erroneous assumption and end up disappointed.
To help you gain a better understanding of auto glass repair and replacement warranties, our team at Only 1 Auto Glass explains how our guarantees work below.
What Exactly Is an Auto Glass Repair Warranty?
An auto glass repair or replacement warranty guarantees the repair or replacement workmanship; it doesn’t guarantee the glass itself.
Even with a warranty, if a rock randomly flies up off the freeway and hits your windshield, you’ll be on the hook for any necessary repairs. There isn’t a warranty out there that offers a guarantee against future glass damage because, at the end of the day, glass is always breakable.
What a Repair Warranty Covers
So what does a warranty actually guarantee? It promises that the crack or chip you had repaired will not spread or grow larger under normal circumstances.
When a windshield repair specialist fills in minor windshield cracks and chips, they shouldn’t spread. That’s why reputable auto glass repair companies offer warranties — they’re giving you confidence in the quality of their workmanship.
And ultimately, they’re offering to make it right if by chance something does go wrong.
Vehicle Issues That May Interfere With Repair Warranties
Some auto glass repair shops may not offer warranty coverage on windshield or rear window replacements when they find rust around the frame that houses the glass. That’s because existing rust can make it difficult to achieve a perfect seal where the frame and the replacement glass meet.
If your vehicle has any rust inside the frame of the window you need replaced, a reputable shop will make you aware of it before they proceed with the work. They’ll also let you know whether pre-existing rust will affect your warranty and to what extent.
Is There Additional Coverage for Related Equipment?
Many shops complement their glass workmanship warranty with coverage for related components. If your vehicle requires ADAS recalibration in addition to a windshield replacement, and you learn the calibration wasn’t performed correctly, fixing the issue should be covered.
Similarly, many shops also offer coverage for components related to the glass, such as defogger mechanisms, antennas, and opening/closing mechanisms on side windows. If any of these parts begin to malfunction after the repair or replacement, the work will likely need to be redone, and that should be covered.
Be sure to ask about related coverage and how it works before you decide to move forward with your repair.
How Long Does a Warranty Provide Coverage?
Auto glass repair warranties vary from shop to shop, so you’ll need to call the shop or review your paperwork to determine the length of your coverage.
If you’re in the market for auto glass repairs, always look for shops that offer warranties — those that don’t are often shady. You definitely don’t want to get stuck paying for additional repairs just days or even a few weeks after you have your windshield fixed.
What Do You Do if the Chip or Crack Spreads?
If the glass damage grows larger after the repair, you’ll need to bring your vehicle back to the auto glass repair shop where you scheduled the original repair. Generally, repair companies require you to bring your vehicle in within seven to 10 days of the date you noticed the growing glass damage.
What Happens If You Wait to Take Your Vehicle In?
If you wait too long to use your warranty, you might void it, in which case you’ll be responsible for covering the repairs you need.
To make sure you adhere to any conditions of your warranty, double-check any paperwork you received during the initial repair. You can also call the shop and inquire about timeframe limitations on guaranteed repairs.
Double-Checking Workmanship After Repairs
It’s important to give your vehicle a once-over immediately after the initial repair work is finished, and of course, after any warrantied repairs are complete, too.
As soon you get your ride back, check for:
● Damage to the paint, which may have been scratched or scuffed during the repair.
● Integrity of the moldings, which should be properly aligned and tight.
● Functionality of opening and closing mechanism if your side windows were replaced.
● Functionality of your defrost mechanism.
● Functionality of your radio antenna.
If your vehicle had a windshield or rear window replacement, you’ll also want to check for air and water leaks. Listen for a whooshing sound when you drive at high speeds, which typically indicates that air is making its way between the glass and the frame of the vehicle.
When it’s safe to do so, you can easily check for water leaks by spraying your front or rear windshield with a stream of water from your garden hose. Avoid taking your vehicle through a car wash immediately after a windshield replacement, as doing so could damage the glass and void your warranty.
To ensure you don’t void your warranty, check out How to Care for Your Auto Glass After a Windshield Replacement.
Need Auto Glass Repairs in the Twin Cities? Contact Only 1 Auto Glass
If your windshield has a minor crack or chip, you need to get it fixed as soon as possible to prevent spreading. At Only 1 Auto Glass, we offer guarantees on our in-shop or mobile windshield repairs and our multiple locations throughout the Twin Cities metro make auto glass repairs as convenient as possible.
To schedule an appointment, give us a call at 651-789-1111. You can also request a free estimate online or send us a message with your questions, and we’ll be in touch.