Learn when your chips, dings, and cracks may be covered by your insurance in Michigan – and when they might not.
Few moments are as frustrating as hearing that CRACK! of a rock hitting your windshield while you’re driving down I-75 on your way to work.
What’s worse? Seeing the spiderweb of cracks begin to spread across your windshield, and knowing in your gut that a costly auto glass repair in Metro Detroit may be in your future..
Does auto insurance cover a full windshield replacement? You may not think much about your windshield glass repair costs until it’s time to act. For Michigan drivers, whether your insurance company covers windshields or not depends on your policy type and coverage levels.
What Are Michigan’s Auto Glass Insurance Requirements?
Michigan doesn’t mandate zero-deductible glass coverage like many other states, which means your auto insurance company’s policy will likely determine your out-of-pocket costs.
However, most comprehensive insurance policy options cover auto glass damage from non-collision incidents (which are the most common cause of windshield problems).
Your comprehensive insurance policy covers damage from several different causes, including flying rocks, vandalism, weather events (Acts of God), and even falling objects.
But without that comprehensive coverage, you’ll likely face paying the full cost for windshield replacement or repairs, as liability coverage only protects other drivers’ property.
When Does My Insurance Company Cover Glass Damage?
While each policy is unique (so check the fine print closely!), you’ll find that there are some common situations where your comprehensive auto policy will kick in to repair glass damage:
Chips & Cracks from Highway Debris
The most common reason your windshield gets damaged? Those tiny rocks or pieces of gravel that other vehicles unintentionally hurl at your vehicle while speeding down the road.
Whether kicked up from tires or bounced off of trucks hauling debris, even a small rock moving at high speeds can crack or chip your windshield.
Cracks from Temperature Fluctuations
In Michigan, temperatures can fluctuate wildly – especially in high and low-temperature months. If your windshield is exposed to large temperature changes without proper protection, your glass can expand or retract – leading to cracks.
Weather Damage
Falling limbs, hail damage, and other weather-related impacts might be covered by your comprehensive coverage. Check closely to make sure that your coverage covers the most common weather risks in your part of Michigan.
Damage from Accidents
Typically, your collision coverage will kick in to cover any windshield damage that occurs due to other drivers’ behaviors.
Many insurers now offer glass-specific add-ons to policies that provide full coverage without deductibles for repairs. Progressive, State Farm, and other major carriers often waive deductibles entirely for minor windshield repairs vs full windshield replacement – recognizing that early repairs often prevent more expensive replacements down the road.
Knowing Your Deductibles and Best Price Options
Your insurance coverage deductible will play a big role in whether filing a claim makes financial sense.
Standard windshield replacements in Michigan range in price from $99-$500. Some luxury vehicles may have higher costs depending on the style and build of the car. If you find that your deductible exceeds the cost of repairs, then paying out-of-pocket may save you more money (and keep your claims history clean!)
Here’s an example::
A $65 chip repair beats using insurance with a $250 deductible. Should a full replacement cost $500 while your deductible is $250, insurance could end up saving you $250.
Some Michigan shops offer cash discounts that might beat your deductible amount, which can make self-pay the best price option.
Don’t Risk It – Make Sure Your Glass Is Covered in Michigan!
Michigan drivers with comprehensive coverage often find they can drive without fear of massive repair bills when the inevitable chip or crack appears on their windshield. Before any damage happens, check your current policy and coverage to ensure you have the protections you may need.
When damage does occur, act quickly! Not only is driving with a damaged windshield or window dangerous (and may prevent you from renewing your tags), but the costs of repairs go up as damage increases.
Compare repair costs, know where you’ll get your glass repaired, and take the right steps today to protect your vehicle and your wallet.
Want to learn more? Contact or request a quote from our team at Save On Auto Glass today!