Repair or Replace: How to Make the Right Decision for Your Windshield Damage

You've just discovered damage to your windshield. Before you panic or rush into a decision, take a breath. This guide will walk you through exactly how to evaluate your damage and make the right choice between repair and replacement.

Step 1: Assess the Damage Size

Size is the first factor in your decision. Get a ruler or use a coin for reference:

• Chips smaller than a quarter: Usually repairable
• Cracks under 6 inches: Often repairable (up to 14 inches in some cases)
• Chips larger than a quarter: Replacement likely needed
• Multiple cracks from one point: Replacement required

Step 2: Check the Location

Where the damage is located matters as much as how big it is:

Driver's Viewing Area

Damage directly in front of the steering wheel, in the driver's line of sight, typically requires replacement. Even a good repair can leave minor distortions that affect visibility.

Edge of the Glass

Cracks that extend to any edge of the windshield cannot be repaired. Edge damage compromises the structural bond between glass and frame—replacement is mandatory.

ADAS Camera Zone

If your vehicle has a forward-facing camera (for lane keeping, automatic braking, etc.), damage near this camera requires replacement. Even minor repairs in this zone can interfere with camera function.

Step 3: Evaluate the Depth

Your windshield has three layers: outer glass, plastic interlayer (PVB), and inner glass. Run your fingernail over the damage:

• If you feel it only on the outside: May be repairable
• If you feel it on the inside: Replacement required (both layers penetrated)

Step 4: Consider the Damage Type

Different damage patterns have different repairability:

• Bullseye (circular): Usually repairable if under 1 inch
• Star break (radiating cracks): Repairable if under 3 inches total diameter
• Combination break: Repairable if main body under 2 inches
• Long crack: Depends on length and location

Step 5: Check for Contamination

Look closely at the damage. Is there dirt, moisture, or debris inside the crack or chip? Contaminated damage is much harder to repair successfully. If the damage has been exposed to the elements for an extended period, replacement may be the better option.

The Decision Matrix

Choose REPAIR if:

• Damage is smaller than a quarter (chips) or under 6 inches (cracks)
• Located away from edges and driver's direct view
• Not near ADAS cameras
• Only outer layer affected
• Clean, uncontaminated damage

Choose REPLACEMENT if:

• Damage exceeds size limits
• Crack reaches the edge of the glass
• Located in driver's viewing area or ADAS zone
• Both glass layers penetrated
• Multiple impact points or previous failed repairs

Don't Wait—Time Matters

Whatever your assessment suggests, act quickly. A repairable chip can become an unrepairable crack within days due to temperature changes, road vibrations, and moisture. The sooner you address the damage, the more options you have—and the safer your vehicle remains.