Windshield replacement: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What windshield replacement is

A technician removes the damaged windshield, cleans the frame, bonds a new one with adhesive, and may recalibrate the cameras and sensors tied to the glass. You need it when the windshield is cracked beyond repair, pitted badly, or the glass is loose or leaking.

Signs you need it

  • A crack longer than a few inches or a crack in the driver's view
  • The glass is pitted or clouded in a way that affects your view at night
  • Water leaks in around the windshield or the glass feels loose
  • A warning light or driver assist feature shows a fault after a chip or crack
  • The glass has been damaged by a sharp object or a crack that keeps spreading

What the pro does

  • Inspects the windshield, the frame and any sensor or camera bracket
  • Removes the old glass carefully and cleans the frame of old adhesive
  • Primes the frame and bonds the new glass with an adhesive made for the job
  • Reinstalls trim and any sensor or camera mounts
  • Recalibrates cameras and sensors when the vehicle requires it, then tests the result

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The make and model, since some glass has sensors, heating elements or a special shape
  • Whether the car has cameras or driver assist systems that need calibration
  • Whether the glass is original equipment or an aftermarket option
  • Whether the glass is ordered in or stocked
  • Whether the replacement is done at your home, a shop or a dealership
  • Whether an insurance claim is handled by the installer

What a written quote should spell out

  • The glass brand and type, and whether it is original equipment or aftermarket
  • Whether the camera or sensor recalibration is included, and how it is done
  • The adhesive and primer used, and the time before the car can be driven
  • Labor for removal, installation and cleanup
  • Warranty for the glass and the installation

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Is the glass original equipment or aftermarket, and what is the difference?
  • Do you recalibrate the cameras and sensors, and do you do it in house?
  • How long before I can drive the car after the install?
  • Do you use a urethane adhesive made for this job?
  • What warranty do you give on leaks and the installation?
  • Will you handle the insurance claim for me?

Red flags

  • Says the glass does not need calibration when the car has cameras or sensors tied to it
  • Will not tell you the drive away time after the install
  • Uses the wrong adhesive or skips the primer
  • Pushes a glass type without showing you the options

What you can do yourself

Do not replace a windshield yourself, since the glass helps support the airbags and a poor bond can leak or move in a crash. You can clean the car, check for leaks after rain, and keep your insurance information handy. Call a pro for any crack that needs replacing or any sensor or camera recalibration.

Licenses and permits

A license is usually not required for windshield replacement. Check with your state or local licensing agency about any business registration that applies, and ask the installer about its insurance.

Windshield replacement questions

Do I need the cameras recalibrated?

If the car has cameras or sensors tied to the windshield, recalibration is often needed. Ask the installer to confirm the requirement for your car and to do it.

How long before I can drive after the install?

It depends on the adhesive and the conditions. The installer should give you a drive away time in writing.

Is an aftermarket windshield as good as the original?

It can be, but the fit, glass quality and sensor compatibility can differ. Ask which type the installer is using and why.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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