Windshield Repair vs Replacement: Which Do You Really Need?
🛠️ A Clear Guide for Arizona Drivers
Cracked Windshield? Here’s How to Know What to Do.
When your windshield takes a hit—whether from highway debris, monsoon-season gravel, or sudden temperature swings—you’ve got two options:
- Repair the chip or crack, or
- Replace the entire windshield
But how do you know which one you actually need?
At Excellent Auto Glass, we’ve handled thousands of Arizona windshields. This guide breaks down exactly when a repair is possible, when replacement is required, and how to save time and money with the right choice.
🔍 When Windshield Repair Is Enough
Windshield repairs are faster and cheaper than full replacements. You may qualify for repair if:
- The damage is smaller than a quarter
- It’s a single chip or bullseye, not a long crack
- The damage isn’t in the driver’s line of sight
- It’s not on the edge of the glass
- The windshield hasn’t been previously repaired in that spot
Bonus: If you have full glass coverage, many insurance plans cover repairs at no cost to you—and it doesn’t count as a claim in most cases.
⏱️ Most repairs take under 30 minutes, and you can drive immediately afterward.
🚫 When You’ll Need a Full Windshield Replacement
Replacement is required when:
- The crack is longer than 3–6 inches
- It’s a spiderweb crack or starburst
- The damage touches the glass edge (increases risk of spreading)
- There are multiple chips or cracks
- It obstructs your view while driving
- Your vehicle has ADAS cameras behind the glass (recalibration is required)
Windshields are structural safety components—they help with airbag deployment, rollover protection, and crash impact absorption. When compromised, a full replacement is the only safe choice.
💰 What’s Cheaper: Repair or Replacement?
Repair is almost always cheaper. But if you have full glass coverage (common in Arizona), your insurance may cover both repair and replacement at no cost.
We’ll verify your coverage for you—no guesswork, no long phone calls.
🔧 We’ll Help You Decide
Not sure what your windshield needs? Just send us a photo or give us a call. We’ll:
- Assess the damage
- Check your insurance
- Recommend the best option
- Schedule a mobile repair or replacement—often same day
📞 Ready to Fix It Before It Becomes a Bigger Problem?
Don’t risk a ticket—or your safety. If you’re in Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, or anywhere in the Valley, we’ll come to you and handle everything.
📞 Call 480-339-5110 or Request a Free Quote
We’ll check your insurance and get you booked, same-day in most cases.
