Auto glass is an essential component of your vehicle, contributing to its structural integrity and ensuring safety during travel. When your windshield or windows become damaged, deciding between repair or replacement can be tricky. Understanding when to opt for repair versus replacement will not only help maintain your vehicle’s safety but also save you time and money. We at Precision Mobile Auto Glass would like to share a breakdown of how to determine which service is right for your specific situation.

When to Choose Auto Glass Repair

In many cases, a simple repair can restore your auto glass without the need for a full replacement. Here are a few scenarios when auto glass repair is the most appropriate solution:
1) Small Chips or Cracks. If your windshield has a chip that’s less than the size of a quarter or a crack shorter than three inches, most auto glass professionals will be able to repair it. Repair is usually done using a resin that fills the chip or crack, restoring the integrity of the glass and preventing further spreading.
2) Damage Away from Driver’s Line of Sight. If the chip or crack is located away from the driver’s direct line of sight, repair is typically a good option. While a repair may still leave a small blemish, it won’t obstruct your vision and won’t compromise safety if the damage is minor.
3) Minimal Number of Cracks. If your windshield has only one or two small cracks or chips, repair is often the most economical choice. Multiple cracks, especially if they’re spread out, might require replacement to ensure the glass maintains its strength.
4) Cost-Effective and Environmentally Friendly. Repairing a windshield is much cheaper than replacing it, especially for minor damage. Many insurance companies cover repairs, sometimes even waiving the deductible to encourage timely action. Also, choosing repair over replacement is an eco-friendly decision since it reduces the waste generated by disposing of old windshields.

When to Choose Auto Glass Replacement

While repairs are often the most convenient and affordable solution, certain situations demand full replacement to maintain your vehicle’s safety. Here are a few instances when replacement is necessary:
1) Large Cracks or Chips. If a crack exceeds three inches in length or if a chip is larger than a quarter, the structural integrity of the windshield is compromised, making replacement the safest option. Large cracks weaken the glass, making it more prone to shattering in the event of an accident or even from everyday driving stresses like vibrations and temperature changes.
2) Damage in the Driver’s Line of Sight. If the crack or chip is located directly in front of the driver’s field of vision, replacement is often the best choice. Even if the damage is repairable, the repair process might leave minor distortions in the glass that could affect visibility, especially at night or during adverse weather conditions.
3) Multiple Cracks or Deep Damage. If there are several cracks spread across the windshield or if the cracks are deep and penetrate multiple layers of the glass, a replacement is the only safe option. Deep cracks can weaken the windshield’s ability to protect passengers during a collision or rollover accident.
4) Edge Damage. Cracks or chips that occur near the edge of the windshield are more likely to compromise the structural integrity of the entire glass. Damage near the edges tends to spread more quickly and can cause the glass to shift, making replacement necessary to ensure a proper fit and seal.
5) Windshield Replacement for Modern Vehicles with ADAS. Modern vehicles often come equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and automatic braking, which are integrated with the windshield. When replacing a windshield on such vehicles, recalibration of the ADAS sensors is usually required, making full replacement necessary in most cases.

Weighing the Options: Repair vs. Replacement

While repairs are faster, more affordable, and environmentally friendly, they are only appropriate for minor damage. If the damage is too extensive, located in critical areas, or if there’s any chance the glass could fail to perform as intended, replacement becomes the best option. Keep in mind that safety should always be your top priority when deciding between repair and replacement.

Windshield Repair, Replacement & More in Arlington, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Flower Mound & Greater Fort Worth, Texas

Additionally, most insurance companies cover both repairs and replacements, though some may waive deductibles for repairs to encourage you to fix damage early. It’s always worth checking your policy before making a decision.
Ultimately, choosing between auto glass repair and replacement depends largely on the size, location, and severity of the damage. Small chips or cracks in non-critical areas can typically be repaired, but large, deep, or multiple cracks usually require a full replacement. By making the right choice, you’ll ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive and avoid unnecessary expenses down the road. Call Precision Mobile Auto Glass when you are in need of auto glass repairs or replacements.