What You Need To Know About Replacing A Broken Windshield

When your car's windshield is damaged beyond repair, then replacing it is the only option. Your vehicle's windshield is considered part of its safety system, which is why it is typically illegal to drive with broken glass.

You may wonder about the process if you've never had to replace an automobile windshield in the past. 

Here's everything you need to know:

Start With Your Auto Insurance

Your auto insurance may cover the windshield replacement. In some states, windshield replacement is part of all policies. In other states, it is optional coverage.

Before heading out to price a new windshield, you should contact your insurance company to determine whether you have automotive glass replacement coverage. 

If you do not have glass coverage, then it is your choice which glass company replaces the windshield. 

If you do have glass coverage or the windshield is covered as part of your comprehensive insurance, then the insurance company will advise you on exactly how to proceed.

Always Replace Windshields with OEM or OEE Glass

When it comes to replacement windshield glass, you will have three options:

1. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
2. OEE (Original Equipment Equivalent)
3. Third-party glass

It is often advisable to use OEM glass. OEM windshields are explicitly made by the manufacturer of your vehicle for your specific vehicle make and model. They are made to be identical to the windshield installed when your car came off the factory floor. 

If OEM glass is not available or price-prohibitive, then OEE glass is a reasonable choice. OEE windshields are an aftermarket option made by a third party but are certified to be equivalent to the original windshield glass made by your vehicle's manufacturer. Often OEE glass will be cheaper than OEM glass. 

If neither OEM nor OEE glass are available, then the last option is to use a windshield manufactured by a third party. These windshields are the least expensive option and are acceptable for most vehicles. However, if you own a luxury car, then you should insist on OEM or OEE windshields.

Always Obtain a Warranty for the Replacement Windshield

I'm choosing the auto glass company to replace your windshield. Make sure you choose a company that offers a solid warranty. 

While a warranty won't replace your new windshield for free if a rock hits and breaks it right after you pull out of the glass shop, it should cover any issues with the adhesive, leaks, or any manufacturer defects in the glass. 

For more information about auto glass replacement, contact a local company.