The windshield is considered to be one of the most important safety features on a car. When your windshield is cracked, your line of sight while driving could be risk and the protection provided by the glass is decreased. Before having your windshield repaired, here are some things to consider. 

Should You File on Your Insurance?

One of the biggest decisions you have to make about your broken or cracked windshield is whether to pay for it out-of-pocket or to file a claim on your auto insurance. The average cost of a complete replacement is $100 to $400. A repair could cost up to $150. If you have the funds available, paying for it out-of-pocket could make sense if you are attempting to avoid a rise in your insurance. 

However, whether or not filing with your insurance will make a difference to your wallet depends on your deductible. When you file a claim, you still have to pay the cost of your deductible. If your deductible is $500 and the cost to repair the windshield is $400, filing a claim could be a waste of time. Review your insurance policy and deductible to help decide if filing is a wise decision.

Should You Get the Windshield Repaired or Replaced?

In some instances, it is possible to have the windshield repaired instead of replaced. Whether or not you can have it repaired depends largely on the size, location, and depth of the chip or crack. A professional can evaluate the windshield and determine if a repair is possible. If both are possible, the decision is entirely up to you. 

Should You Ask for OEM or Aftermarket?

Original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, parts come direct from the manufacturer of your car and there is a good chance that the parts will be of good quality. However, OEM parts are typically the more expensive option for replacing your windshield. 

By contrast, aftermarket parts are made by other manufacturers and are less expensive. Some people tend to shy away from aftermarket parts because they believe them to be inferior products, but this is not necessarily true. An aftermarket windshield can be equal in quality to an OEM manufactured windshield. If you prefer to have only parts from your manufacturer on your car, opt for the OEM parts. However, if you are looking for good quality at a lower price, talk to a professional about an aftermarket windshield.

There are other considerations to be made when having your windshield repaired or replaced. Talk to a professional to learn what else you need to know before making your final decision.

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