4 Misconceptions About Windshield Repair
You’re driving down the highway, when suddenly a small object comes hurling right at your window. You think it is not big enough to do any major damage, but it still leaves a small chip in your windshield. Which leads to the ultimate question: Do you fix it or not fix it? We have all heard the phrase chips happen (haha, see what I did there?), and sometimes it’s hard to figure out the best way to handle them. Here are four misconceptions about windshield repair.
Misconception #1: My chip won’t spread
The chances of your chip not cracking are slim. Research shows that 70% of rock chips eventually will spread into much bigger ones. If the chip spreads too much (larger than a quarter), you will end up needing a total windshield replacement. That, of course,is a much more expensive repair. Get any chips taken care of as soon as possible, no matter how small, to ensure the repair is quick and inexpensive.
Misconception #2: I can buy a cheap repair kit from the store and fix it myself
We’ve all heard the saying: “You get what you pay for.” That could not be more true than when it comes to a windshield repair. You only get one shot at performing a rock chip so you want to make sure it is done correctly. Cheap repairs kits use inexpensive materials that often won’t endure the regular wear and tear of a windshield. Going to someone who knows what they’re doing and has quality materials to fix the problem the first time around means that you will save yourself time, money and the hassle of doing the job incorrectly yourself.
Misconception #3: I will have to pay for the repair out of my own pocket
For chip repair, as long as you have comprehensive full coverage on your vehicle most insurance companies, except State Farm, will completely waive your comprehensive deductible, no matter if it is $50 or $500. If you allow the chip to crack out and a full windshield replacement is required you will have to meet your deductible before the insurance company will pick up any amount for the replacement. Typically, you do not have to worry about your insurance premiums rising after filing the claim unless you were proved negligent or at fault. Windshield damage is a common occurrence that is often out of the driver’s control. Insurance companies will not penalize you for such a common incidence that requires just a simple fix.
Misconception #4:
Many shops will advertise and offer guaranteed chip repair, implying that they will guarantee the repair against ever cracking and leading you to believe that if the repair does crack out, you will get a refund of the amount you paid. THAT COULD NOT BE FARTHER FROM THE TRUTH!!!
I dare say that there is absolutely NO SHOP that will do that. If you believe that I challenge you to pay cash for the repair and when/if the repair cracks further I want you to go back to the shop and get your money back without buying a windshield from them.
Did you catch that? NO SHOP will refund the cost of the repair if you do not buy the replacement windshield from them. Their implied guarantee will only cover a CREDIT towards the cost of a new replacement, and only if they have not put a time frame on the guarantee. If they do apply the credit towards a new windshield most of these shops will increase the cost at least by the amount of the repair.
Hopefully I have cleared the air about some of the most common windshield repair misconceptions. However, if you have any other questions or want to know more about how we can help you fix your windshield just give us a call! You can reach Chapman Auto Glass representative at (505) 228-5869 to get the expert advice and exceptional service you need.
