Cracked Windshield? Your Questions Answered
Repair or replace, insurance, driving safety, and what to expect, from a local shop serving Los Angeles County since 1996.
Can a cracked or chipped windshield be repaired?
Often, if the damage is small.Small rock chips and very short cracks can often be repaired instead of replacing the whole windshield. Chip repair takes about 30 minutes at our Arcadia shop and stops the damage from spreading.
A new windshield is usually needed when:
- The crack is long or keeps growing
- The damage is right in the driver’s line of sight
- The crack reaches the edge of the windshield
- There are several chips or cracks
Not sure? Call us or get a free quote and we’ll tell you whether it can be repaired. Learn about chip repair · Learn about windshield replacement
Does insurance cover a cracked windshield?
Usually, under comprehensive coverage.Windshield damage is usually covered under the comprehensive part of your auto policy. You pay your deductible, and insurance pays the rest. Some policies also include full glass coverage, and many insurance companies cover chip repair at little or no cost. Check your policy to be sure.
How it works with us: you file the claim with your insurance company, and we take it from there. We work with all insurance companies and handle the claim with your insurance for you.
Will it raise my rates? Glass claims usually don’t count as at-fault accidents, but every policy is different, so check with your insurance company. If your quote is less than your deductible, paying cash is usually cheaper. Learn about insurance claims
Is it safe or legal to drive with a cracked windshield in California?
Small chips: usually OK for now. Big cracks: get it fixed.Your windshield helps keep the roof strong and the airbags working the way they should, so a cracked windshield is weaker than a healthy one. A small chip outside your view is usually not an emergency, but it should be repaired soon before it spreads.
California law (Vehicle Code 26710) doesn’t allow driving a car whose windshield damage blocks or impairs the driver’s view. If a crack is in your line of sight or is growing, get it fixed as soon as you can. This is general information, not legal advice.
Will a windshield chip spread?
Often, yes.Heat, cold, car washes, and bumps in the road can turn a small chip into a long crack, sometimes overnight. Repairing a chip early usually stops it from spreading and can save you from replacing the whole windshield.
How long does windshield replacement take?
Most jobs: under 60 minutes.Most windshield replacements are done in under 60 minutes. If your car’s safety camera needs calibration after the new windshield goes in, it takes a little longer. We come to your home or work anywhere in Los Angeles County, or you can visit our Arcadia shop.
When can I drive or wash my car after windshield replacement?
Drive right away. Wait about 2 days for a car wash.You can drive your car right after we finish. Please wait about 2 days before going through a car wash, so the new seal can fully set.
How much does it cost?
It depends on your car and the glass it needs. See our windshield replacement cost page for a typical range, or get your exact price with a free quote by text.