Cheap Windshield Replacements
You’ve probably heard about the new trend of cheap windshield replacements that costs less than $100. But is it worth the risk? First, you should know that the average windshield replacement cost is around $375. Second, consider each cost factor involved. The labor cost alone is typically more than $100 by itself.
3 Things to Consider
Consumers looking for ways to save money have turned to the internet in hopes of finding cheap auto glass replacement services. Many companies offer these low-cost options, but some aren’t worth the risk. So should you avoid a new windshield replacement that’s under $100? Here are three things to consider if you receive a price quote that seems super low.
- The Price – If you’re considering an inexpensive windshield replacement, plenty of auto glass installers are willing to sell you one at a very low price. However, not all those companies are legitimate and might install low-quality glass, which can break easily and isn’t as safe. So buying a cheap windshield replacement doesn’t mean much if the glass has imperfections or breaks quickly.
- The Quality – When shopping for a windshield replacement, ensure you know what kind of quality glass they use. An auto glass business can sell you a windshield for less than $100, but you’ll need to spend around $300 or higher for good quality glass installed by a professional. Visit our page on types of windshields to learn more.
- The Safety Features – There are many safety features on newer vehicles that require calibration after installing a new windshield. These calibration fees will typically start at around $350. So an auto glass company quoting a new windshield replacement under $100 most likely didn’t consider these safety features.
Windshields Under $100
In my personal opinion, if anyone provides you with a windshield quote for less than $100 to replace your damaged windshield, consider running like hell. However, there are places on the internet offering competitive prices for less than $100, but the price doesn’t typically include installation or any materials needed to secure the glass.
Below are some additional questions you should consider asking auto glass specialists who provide lowball prices that seem too good.
- Does the quoted price include recalibrating the advanced driver assistance system? For example, suppose your vehicle comes equipped with an ADAS safety device such as lane change detection, which uses a special camera. In that case, it will cost more to recalibrate them after installing new glass.
- What type of glass are you installing? Make sure the repair shop isn’t installing a generic off-brand windshield. The best options to have installed are Dealer, OEM, or Aftermarket windshields. All three windshield types listed should not be priced under $100 if someone installs them. Consider this, I’ve seen wholesale windshields for $50 to $80, but that’s for the glass alone. So a windshield replacement under $100 would leave a profit of $10 to $40 after additional costs for supplies. Tack on fuel to do the mobile windshield replacement, and there’s very little remaining for an independent glass installer.
- Does the price include installation? Professional auto glass technicians receive excellent compensation to ensure your windshield installation is correct. Even larger companies that buy glass in bulk at a reasonable price would lose money to sell windshields for less than $100 after paying the installer.
- Is there a warranty or guarantee? Reputable auto glass experts will offer a warranty or guarantee when selling you a windshield replacement which means that if anything goes wrong with the glass, they’ll fix it.
The Auto Glass Industry
The auto glass repair industry has seen a considerable surge in popularity over the last decade. In fact, according to the National Automobile Glass Repair Association (NAGRA), auto glass repairs increased from $14.5 billion in 2008 to $23.6 billion in 2017.
Pricing
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) highly regulates the auto glass industry, including pricing, advertising, and product labeling. The FTC also requires auto glass installers to meet specific standards, including training requirements, licensing, insurance, bonding, and background checks.
Most quoted prices come from a percentage of the NAGS (National Auto Glass Specifications) list. So, for example, if a dealer quotes you $350 for a windshield replacement, they’re likely quoting you based on their estimate of what the job costs. Sometimes, this estimate is 10% to 20% of the NAGS listed price.
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Safety Standards
Auto glass manufacturers must adhere to strict federal safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). These regulations require all auto glass products sold in the U.S. to undergo testing before being sold to the public, including windshields, side windows, backlights, rearview mirrors, sunroofs, and other components.
Manufacturers can only use materials that meet these stringent safety standards. They cannot use cheaper materials that may cause injury or harm to customers.
Technician Certifications
Believe it or not, auto glass professionals who work in the industry aren’t required to complete certification programs. However, training courses and certifications programs are essential to ensure your new windshield is installed by technicians if done correctly and safely.
The Auto Glass Safety Council is one place professionals have access to for certifications which provides technicians with knowledge about the latest safety standards and technology used in the industry. These certification programs include knowing how to fit and install windshields properly and how to use the correct tools and techniques.
Key Takeaways
- Be cautious when ordering cheap windshield replacements for less than $100.
- Windshield prices under $100 are most likely generic or off-brand and may have defects.
- Additional safety features that work with cameras attached to the front windshield cost an extra fee of $350 or more to recalibrate.
- Shop owners base pricing for windshields on a percentage of the NAGS price list maintained and updated by Mitchell.
- The FTC regulates the auto glass industry, but technicians aren’t required to have a certification.
What’s Next?
We don’t have prices under $100 for windshields, but we do have affordable auto glass repair services to meet most budgets. The technicians in our database are qualified and experienced with all vehicle types and ready to assist. Click the button below to find the location nearest to you.
