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Does Car Insurance Cover a Windshield Replacement?
Comprehensive coverage will help pay to repair or replace your windshield if it’s damaged by something like a rock. Some insurers also offer full glass coverage, which may waive your deductible for windshield repairs or replacements. For crash-related glass damage, see our Collision Insurance Guide.
Your windshield is a key safety feature protecting you from debris, weather, and impacts—yet it’s among the most commonly damaged car parts. Whether insurance pays for a crack or replacement depends on your coverage type. If the crack came from a parked-car incident, compare how claims work in a hit‑and‑run.
When comparing policies, it’s also a good idea to review car insurance quotes in Nashville, TN to find strong glass protection options at a fair price.
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Does Car Insurance Cover Windshield Damage?
If you only carry your state’s minimum liability insurance, your windshield will not be covered. Liability pays for damage and injuries you cause to others, not repairs to your own vehicle. If another driver is at fault, their liability insurance may cover your glass. With full coverage (collision + comprehensive), your windshield is often protected.
- Comprehensive insurance – Covers non-collision events like rocks, debris, hail, falling objects, vandalism, and theft.
- Collision insurance – Applies when your windshield is damaged in a crash you cause (e.g., hitting a pole or guardrail).
- Liability-only – Does not cover your windshield; another driver’s liability may pay if they caused the damage.
How Each Coverage Applies
- Collision insurance and Windshield Replacement – Covers damage if your glass cracks or shatters in a crash you cause (rear-ending, hitting a pole, swerving into a guardrail). Deductible applies.
- Comprehensive insurance and Windshield Replacement – Protects against non-collision events: rocks, tree branches, hail, animal strikes, or vandalism. Deductible applies unless you have full glass coverage that may waive it.
- Liability insurance and Windshield Replacement – Won’t cover your own glass. If another driver is at fault, their liability may pay.
Should You File a Windshield Replacement Claim?
If your deductible is $500 and replacement costs $400, insurance won’t pay. Even if the cost is slightly higher than your deductible, filing may not be worth it if it risks losing discounts or raising premiums later.
Drivers looking for the cheapest car insurance in Nashville, TN often weigh small windshield claims carefully. Too many minor claims can cancel discounts and push premiums higher.
Real Stories: Handling Windshield Damage with Insurance
If you’re unsure whether to file a claim, hearing from other drivers can help. The examples below illustrate tradeoffs similar to those highlighted by consumer sites.
Case Study 1: Consider Getting a Quote First
“I filed a claim with Geico in early 2022 for windshield replacement and it was covered with no deductible as I’m in Florida. My premium hadn’t changed in the last 2 years even since before the claim. For my latest renewal, I priced a quote from Progressive which came out to $300 less for comparable coverage. When I agreed and they ran my driving history (CLUE), they raised my quote by $350 because of the claim. Spoke to a rep and they said that’s how they do business and that’s an industry thing. I told them that Geico didn’t change my premium so I stayed with Geico. Probably best to get a quote first.”
— Reddit User, July 2024
Case Study 2: Losing a “Claim-Free” Discount
“I had a windshield crack repaired through insurance once. It would have been like $80 dollars out of pocket, but it was free through my policy. People told me it shouldn’t affect my premiums. I asked my insurance if it would increase my premiums. They told me it would not.
I had it replaced through insurance and as a result, my monthly payment increased significantly. I don’t remember the exact amount, but it was a four-digit annual figure. I was furious. I called my insurance to fix it. They assured me that technically my premium had not increased, but that I no longer qualified for the ‘claim-free’ discount I’d been receiving. They considered the discount for having zero claims to be separate from the calculation which determined my premium. They failed to mention this when I inquired beforehand. I immediately got a new insurance policy.”
— Reddit User, July 2024
How to File a Windshield Damage Claim
If your windshield has a chip or crack, assess the size. As a rule of thumb, cracks longer than ~6 inches usually need full replacement; small chips or short cracks can often be repaired.
1) Document the damage – Take photos and measure the crack or chip.
2) Report the claim – File online, by phone, or with your agent.
3) Share details with the adjuster – Provide photos, measurements, and any incident info.
4) Choose a repair shop – Use preferred vendors or a mobile glass service.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does my insurance cover windshield replacement?
Yes, if you have comprehensive coverage, most insurers cover windshield replacement. Some states or optional full glass coverage may waive the deductible.
Can I drive with a cracked windshield?
Driving with a cracked windshield is unsafe and may be illegal in many states. Repair or replace it right away.
Should I replace or repair my damaged windshield?
If the crack or chip is under ~6 inches, repair may be enough. Larger damage usually requires a full replacement. A glass specialist can confirm.
How much does windshield replacement cost?
Average replacements range from $300–$600; advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) can push costs above $1,000. With no‑deductible glass coverage, your insurer may pay the full amount.