A tiny windshield damage may lead to the next windshield replacement. It’s essential to know when to repair versus replace the windshield. Otherwise, you may be tricked into paying for unnecessary replacements from the repair shop. So, Do Auto Glass Repair Services Guarantee Chip Repair?
The answer is “not always, but many do.” If you ask the right questions upfront and verify their warranty terms carefully, you’ll avoid surprises. Otherwise, this may lead to unnecessary costs.
In this content, we will discuss overall glass repair technologies, repair service guarantees, and several factors. So, let’s get started.
How Auto Glass Chip Repair Works
As a car owner, it’s important to understand precisely how chip repair works before comparing guarantees or other aspects.
The reason is that ‘Chip repair isn’t as magical as you think’.
The chip repair process is highly technical and rife with limitations. You can’t do anything you want, like using DIY tools, if you have no prior experience.
Now, let’s see how the glass repair actually works
The Repair Process
Automotive glass repair primarily involves stabilizing the damaged area. A technician handles tasks such as cleaning chips, removing loose glass, and injecting resin.
Resin fills the tiny air pockets. Then it was cured under UV lights. It hardens and bonds to the glass back together. The cracks should be stopped from spreading and restored as early as possible.
Factors That Affect the Success Rate
Not every chip indeed responds the same way to repair. It depends on-
- Chip size: Usually, smaller chips tend to repair more cleanly than larger ones. Repair can be trickier for larger or “star-shaped” ones.
- Depth of the damage: If the damage is more severe, the windshield may become structurally weak even at the start of the repair.
- Location: Success rates typically become lower when the chips remain near the edges of the windshield or the driver’s line of sight.
- How long you waited: More dirt and moisture get into the older chips. As a result, it becomes harder to fully bond the resin.
- Weather conditions: Cracks can expand due to extreme temperature changes before the repair even starts.
It’s easy to see when all factors are put together, some repairs turn out almost invisible, while others still leave a slight mark.
The Limitations of Chip Repair Technology
Every repair system has inherent constraints and technical boundaries. You can’t go beyond them. Before repairing the windshield, you should understand the repair technology.
Now, let’s see which factors determine a successful chip repair.
The first limitation is that repairs don’t fully eliminate the damage. Of course, they improve appearance, but no repair shop should guarantee a flawless result. It may not give 100% invisible finish.
The second, but important, thing is that the repair may not last long-term if the chip has already started to spider out. This is a critical factor affecting repair durability. If the structural damage crosses a certain point, it can’t be “rescued.” Then replacement becomes the safer option.
The third limitation concerns the chip’s size and depth. Usually, the size and depth determine the feasibility of repair. If the size is more than 2 inches or more than that, it can sometimes be difficult to repair, and replacement might be the better option.
So, if you really decide to proceed with the repair, consider these factors carefully. Don’t be overwhelmed while doing it.
Repair vs Replacement: What to Expect from Guarantees
Faults can develop in products covered by the guarantee.
The manufacturer or retailer decides whether to repair or replace. This relies on the guarantee terms, conditions, and consumer law. So, when should shops recommend replacement instead of repair?
If the repair cost exceeds the cost of a new product, the replacement is the best option. Repair is not possible due to a lack of spare parts or the unavailability of the old product. The replacement service is more rapid. As a result, the customer is satisfied, and the repair hassle is reduced.
The guarantee agreement clearly states that the authority provider may have the right to choose the method of problem-solving, either repair or replacement.
Now, let’s talk about the guarantee coverage limits:
- Time Limit: It should include a specific time frame, such as a one-year warranty.
- Manufacturing Fault: Only covers problems with manufacturing or materials, not damage from everyday use.
- T&C: Some rules should be maintained for warranty validation, such as being repaired by an authorised tech.
When a valid guarantee is claimed, the service either repairs or provides a replacement at no cost. The manufacturer or retailer bears all expenses, including Parts, labor, and shipping. When the product repair or replacement is necessary outside the warranty period, the customer bears all expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can all chips be repaired successfully?
The answer is ‘No’. All the chips or cracks can not be repaired. However, small, fresh, and stable chips have the highest chances of successful repair and long-term durability.
Do repair shops guarantee that the chip will disappear completely?
The repair shop can tell you the likelihood of successful chip repair. They cannot guarantee a successful repair. If the chips or cracks are not too severe, repairs may still be possible.
What happens if the chip spreads after repair?
There is nothing to do unless the repair shop has policies to repair it again or coverage policies. In that case, I highly recommend choosing a reputable repair service with guarantees. This will help you avoid any hassle.
Is chip repair covered under warranty or insurance?
Yes, several companies like ‘Save On Auto Glass’ offer zero-deductible repairs. Before scheduling a repair, check your coverage details. Sometimes, your insurance company will cover the cost of chip repairs.
Should I choose a shop that offers a lifetime guarantee?
Yes, if it’s possible. If your chip repair comes with a lifetime guarantee, it ensures long-term protection and peace of mind. So, try to see the reviews, and ask for the details, including coverage and so on.
Final Word
As a car owner, you must not ignore the importance of timely chip repairs. Furthermore, understanding the repair services available is essential. Be sure to find a trusted repair shop like Save On Auto Glass.
Our expert team will handle your chip repair needs. We will also be careful about the coverage and ensure your windshield’s long-term durability.
If your insurance covers all the costs, then we will handle all the staff, which will reduce the hassle. Before concluding, don’t miss the chance to get an expert who uses advanced technology to repair your windshield.