First time dealing with damaged auto glass? Chances are you’ve got a few questions about the auto glass repair or replacement process, and our team at Only 1 Auto Glass in Maplewood, MN, is ready to answer them.
While we might not know your specific queries, we’ve fielded hundreds (probably thousands) of customer questions over our 10+ years in business. Time and time again, those questions tend to center around the same topics, so we’ve put together a brief Q&A addressing our most common questions and their answers. Check it out below!
How Do I Know if I Need Windshield Repair or Replacement?
Determining whether your windshield needs repairs or a full replacement can be a little tough in certain situations. Auto glass repair capabilities have advanced in recent years, so today, certain types of cracks and chips that were once considered irreparable may now be eligible for repair.
Generally speaking, glass cracks that are longer than three to four inches will necessitate a windshield replacement. Chips, on the other hand, must be assessed on a case-by-case basis since each one is unique.
To learn more about this topic, check out What Types of Windshield Damage Are Eligible for Repair?
How Long Does an Auto Glass Repair Take?
Generally, auto glass repairs take about 30 minutes, but that really depends on the location and extent of the damage.
If you’re getting mobile repair service, it’s important to understand that weather conditions can affect the length of time required to perform the repair. Rescheduling may be necessary if the weather won’t allow our technicians to perform the repair work properly at the time of your scheduled mobile service appointment.
To learn more about mobile service and what to expect, check out Is Mobile Windshield Repair Safe?
How Long Does Windshield Replacement Take?
Most windshield replacements require about an hour to perform. However, if your vehicle has ADAS features — such as backup cameras, lane assist, adaptive cruise control, etc. — the replacement process will require more time.
Why? Because we must perform ADAS recalibration after replacing the glass to realign the sensors and cameras that your ADAS features depend on to function properly. The recalibration process typically requires another 30-60 minutes or so.
What’s the Cost of a Windshield Replacement?
The cost of windshield replacement depends on the type of windshield you need, whether your vehicle has ADAS features, and whether you plan to use your insurance to help cover the cost of service. Price can vary from shop to shop based on several factors, including labor charges and other variables, so you won’t know until you call around and ask.
It’s always a good idea to get estimates from at least three auto glass repair shops to ensure you’re getting quoted a fair price. If you’re interested in getting a windshield replacement from Only 1 Auto Glass, feel free to contact our office to request a free estimate!
Is It Really Necessary to Repair a Small Chip in My Auto Glass?
Yes, it really is necessary, and it’s really necessary to handle the repair as promptly as you can. Even a small chip contains several microcracks that can spread instantly, given the right conditions. When you continue driving around with a small chip in your windshield, for example, any of the following situations can cause that chip to transform into a huge crack:
● Driving over a speed bump too quickly
● Hitting a curb a little too forcefully
● Dramatic outdoor temperature fluctuations
● Slamming the doors of the vehicle
That’s not a comprehensive list by any means. Minor auto glass damage almost always grows worse unless it’s repaired swiftly. In a worst-case scenario, your windshield could even shatter if you don’t get a small crack promptly repaired.
Do I Need to Wait to Drive After a Windshield Replacement?
Yes, you must wait at least one hour to drive your vehicle after a windshield replacement. The glass adhesive needs time to cure and bond to the frame of your car or truck. If you drive too soon after a windshield replacement, you risk compromising the integrity of the bond, which could result in the glass gradually detaching from your vehicle.
Check out our windshield replacement aftercare tips for more helpful info.
Will My Insurance Pay for Auto Glass Repair or Replacement?
Whether your insurance will pay for auto glass service depends on your policy and the type of coverage you have.
If you have comprehensive coverage, it should pay for auto glass replacement, whether you need a new windshield, side windows, rear window, or sunroof. But you’ll need to pay your deductible first. Only then will your insurance pay for the remainder of the replacement costs.
Keep in mind, though, that if you have a high deductible, it may end up equaling or even exceeding the cost of replacing your damaged auto glass. If that’s true, it doesn’t make sense to file a claim. When you need auto glass repairs, it probably won’t make sense to file a claim either. In most cases, the cost of a repair is far less than most people’s deductibles.
If you don’t already know, Minnesota law does require auto insurance policies that provide comprehensive coverage to offer policyholders the option of complete coverage for auto glass repair or replacement. If you opt for that, your insurance will pay for 100% of any type of auto glass service your vehicle may need — no deductible required.
Do I Get a Warranty?
Any reputable auto glass company should warranty their work (at Only 1 Auto Glass, we certainly do), so be sure to ask about that when you get estimates. If you run into any shops that don’t offer a service guarantee, don’t let them perform the work you need.
Is OEM or Aftermarket Glass Better for a Replacement?
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) replacement glass is identical in every way to the glass that was originally installed on your vehicle.
Aftermarket glass (also called OEE or Original Equipment Equivalent) is — in theory — the same as your vehicle’s original glass. However, that’s not always true. OEM is the more expensive option because the quality is guaranteed.
Ultimately, the type of glass that’s best for you depends on what you can afford and, if your insurance is footing the bill, what your policy will pay for.
For more info that can help with your decision-making process, check out the pros and cons of OEM auto glass and the advantages and disadvantages of aftermarket auto glass.
Only 1 Auto Glass: Your Twin Cities Source for Auto Glass Repair & Replacement
When you need an auto glass repair company you can trust, look no further than Only 1 Auto Glass! We offer in-shop and mobile auto glass service and have multiple locations throughout the Twin Cities for your convenience. To learn more about how we can help you, feel free to give us a call today at 651-789-1111 or request a free estimate, and we’ll get in touch!