Windshield repairs or replacements are no fun – especially when you fear that your insurance may not cover as much of the costs as you’d like.
From deductible amounts to repair costs, you’ll need to know exactly what your current auto coverage policy does and doesn’t include before you head to a repair shop.
For Michigan drivers, this means learning your specific comprehensive insurance terms and the potential windshield replacement costs you might be facing.
What Are My Coverage Options for Windshield Repair?
Your auto insurance policy’s comprehensive coverage typically handles windshield damage from non-collision incidents, which are the most common causes of broken windshields or other auto glass damage.
Comprehensive coverage covers damage caused by rock chips, sudden temperature changes, vandalism, and even some damage caused by natural disasters. However, if your windshield damage resulted from an accident, you’ll often find that your collision coverage kicks in instead.
But it’s important to note that coverage for windshield damage varies by state. Some states mandate free windshield replacement, while Michigan allows insurance companies to apply standard deductibles to glass claims.
What does this mean for you? In most cases, your deductible amount will determine whether or not filing an insurance claim makes financial sense.
You’ll find that some insurance companies offer full glass coverage add-ons to policies. These can reduce or eliminate deductibles specifically for auto glass damage, making replacement more affordable.
Windshield Repair vs Replacement – Which Is Right For Me?
When you see a crack or chip, you may wonder whether you need a full replacement or just a minor fix. You’ll also find that insurance companies want to know the same thing!
Many auto insurance policies waive deductibles entirely for windshield repairs, as many would rather cover minor fixes now to prevent future, high-cost coverage repairs down the road. This makes windshield repairs almost always worth filing through your insurance company.
But if the structural integrity is compromised or the damage is impacting how well you can see out your windshield, a full windshield replacement may be in order.
Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) glass often costs more than aftermarket windshields, but your insurance coverage should include OEM quality without additional charges.
When To Pay Out of Pocket for Broken Windshield Repairs
You’ll want to use your insurance coverage when the windshield repair or replacement exceeds your deductible. For instance, if a full windshield replacement costs $500 and your deductible is $250, insurance saves you $250.
However, you may opt to skip filing an insurance claim when the replacement is less than the deductible.
If your damaged windshield requires $99 to replace but your comprehensive coverage carries a $500 deductible, you’ll be paying that full amount regardless. Plus, filing unnecessarily creates a claim record on your file without the financial benefit.
If you find that the damage is repairable at a manageable cost, you may go the route of paying out of pocket. A small crack or chip often costs $65 to repair – far less than most deductibles.
And those early small fixes can often prevent those much more expensive full replacements later on.
Make The Smart Financial Decision for Windshield Repair or Replacement in Michigan
Remember: Michigan law protects your right to choose any certified repair shop you wish to have repairs or replacements completed. This means you can go with trusted local auto glass specialists who may have more competitive cash pricing or deductible assistance programs.
Before you make a decision on repairs, do your due diligence. Calculate your costs under both an insurance and out-of-pocket payment route, get multiple quotes, and always compare the price against your coverage and deductible.
Fixing your windshield is an important step in responsible automobile ownership, and you never want to risk your safety or that of others to avoid paying for repairs. Michigan’s roads and weather bring more than a few risks to your car’s windshield, and the sooner you act, the safer you’ll be!
Want to learn more? Contact Save On Auto Glass today to get all the information you need for your next windshield repair.