How much does Windshield repair cost?

When a rock flies up and smacks your windshield, it can chip or crack the glass. Left unrepaired, that small crack can spread across the windshield, jeopardizing the glass’s integrity, obstructing your view, and potentially putting a dent in your wallet. 

Windshield’s are easily repaired when the damage is very small. You’ll need a full-glass replacement, however, with:

In this guide to auto-glass-service prices, you’ll find out exactly how much it costs to repair or replace a damaged windshield. 

Nationwide, car owners spend an average of $60-400 to repair or replace a windshield. 

Here are the specific cost breakdowns:

Windshield repair. The national average cost to fix a windshield is about $110. Your price for a single, minor crack or chip repair can be far lower, at $60–100. Fixing a longer crack may cost at least $125.

Windshield replacement. If your chipped or cracked glass can’t be fixed, windshield replacement will cost from $100–400; most glass companies charge about $220. Replacement costs for some luxury vehicles with high-end or odd-shaped glass can reach upward of $1,500.

Rear window replacement. A car’s back window (sometimes mistakenly referred to as a rear windshield) is more expensive to make and more complicated to install, so replacement costs will be higher, averaging $200–450.

The amount you’ll spend to fix windshield damage depends on:

Here are the most common ways to reduce your costs when faced with windshield damage:

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a windshield?
Repairing your windshield is almost always less expensive than having it replaced. But if your auto insurance policy covers windshield damage—and if you live in a state where there’s no deductible on windshield replacement—the cost should be reimbursed fully.

Are windshield repairs worth it?
High-quality glass repair is almost unnoticeable and can save you a lot of money in the long run. A small chip or crack will often grow over time, eventually requiring more expensive repairs or even a new windshield. 

How long does it take to replace a windshield?
Most simple windshield replacements can be completed in as little as 30 minutes, depending on where you have it done. However, more complex windshields on high-end cars take longer. And if your car has an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) or rain sensors, they may need to be recalibrated following windshield replacement. 

Do I need to wait before I can drive my car?
You should wait at least an hour after a repair or replacement of a cracked windshield. This gives the adhesive and sealers time to dry.

Find a windshield replacement professional in your area.