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Navigating Windshield Warranties and Insurance: A Guide for Consumers

Yes, insurance typically covers windshield damage under comprehensive coverage, though requirements vary by state. This paper provides a comprehensive guide to the financial and logistical frameworks governing windshield repair and replacement. It details the various types of warranties, including manufacturer, installer, and ADAS calibration warranties, clarifying their specific coverages and limitations. The analysis explains the roles of comprehensive and collision insurance and examines the critical impact of state-specific laws regarding insurance deductibles.

By WindshieldAdvisor Research Team

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10 min read

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December 6, 2025

Key Takeaways

✓Warranties never cover impact damage—only defects in materials or workmanship
✓Comprehensive coverage pays for non-collision damage like rock chips and hail
✓Three states (FL, KY, SC) mandate zero-deductible windshield replacement by law
✓Five states offer optional full glass coverage riders with zero deductibles
✓Many insurers waive deductibles for repairs versus replacements
✓ADAS calibration should be covered when windshield replacement is a covered claim

Understanding Windshield Warranties

Windshield warranties can be confusing because multiple parties may offer coverage. Understanding the different types of warranties helps consumers know what protection they have. Manufacturer warranties cover defects in the glass itself, such as delamination, optical distortion, or stress cracks that appear without impact. OEM glass typically carries the vehicle manufacturer's warranty for the original windshield. These warranties do not cover damage from impacts, chips, or cracks caused by road debris. Installer warranties cover the workmanship of the installation. A reputable installer should warranty their work against leaks, wind noise, and installation-related issues. The Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) recommends installers provide a minimum one-year warranty on workmanship. Some premium installers offer lifetime workmanship warranties. Aftermarket glass warranties vary significantly by manufacturer. Some aftermarket brands offer comparable warranties to OEM, while budget options may have limited or no warranty coverage.

Dual Warranty Protection

Quality installations should come with both a glass manufacturer warranty and an installer workmanship warranty

DIY Voids Warranties

Attempting DIY installation or repair will void both manufacturer and installer warranties

Insurance Coverage for Windshield Damage

Auto insurance coverage for windshield damage depends on your policy type and state laws. Comprehensive coverage is the primary insurance that covers windshield damage. Comprehensive insurance covers damage from events other than collisions, including rock chips and cracks from road debris, vandalism, weather damage such as hail or falling branches, and theft-related damage. A deductible typically applies, ranging from $100 to $1,000. Collision coverage only applies if windshield damage results from a collision with another vehicle or object. Standard road debris damage is not covered under collision. Full glass coverage or zero-deductible glass coverage is an optional add-on available in most states. This coverage allows windshield repair or replacement with no out-of-pocket deductible. The additional premium is usually modest, often $20-50 per year.

Low-Cost Add-On

Zero-deductible glass coverage typically costs only $20-50 per year as an insurance add-on

Comprehensive Required

Windshield damage from road debris is covered under comprehensive, not collision coverage

State-Specific Glass Coverage Laws

Several states have enacted laws requiring insurance companies to offer favorable windshield coverage. These 'free windshield' states mandate that insurers waive the deductible for windshield repairs or replacements. Zero-deductible states include Arizona, Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, where insurers must waive deductibles for windshield claims if the policyholder has comprehensive coverage. Massachusetts requires insurers to waive the deductible for windshield repairs (not replacements). In other states, deductible waivers may be available as optional coverage or at the insurer's discretion. Some insurers waive deductibles for repairs (but not replacements) as an incentive to repair rather than replace. Consumers should check their specific state laws and policy terms to understand their coverage.

Free Windshield States

Arizona, Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina require insurers to waive deductibles for windshield claims

Repair Incentives

Many insurers waive deductibles for repairs but not replacements to encourage the less costly option

Filing a Windshield Claim

The claims process for windshield damage is typically straightforward, but following proper procedures ensures smooth processing. Document the damage immediately by taking photos of the chip or crack, including close-ups and wider shots showing the location on the windshield. Note when and how the damage occurred. Contact your insurance company to report the claim. Many insurers have dedicated glass claims lines or mobile apps for quick reporting. Ask about your deductible, whether it's waived for repairs, and if you can choose your own repair shop. Select a qualified installer. You have the right to choose your own glass shop in most states. Look for AGSC-certified technicians and shops that use OEM or OEM-equivalent glass. Get a written estimate before authorizing work. Understand the ADAS factor. If your vehicle has ADAS features, ensure the shop includes calibration in their quote and that insurance covers this additional cost, which can add $200-500 to the total.

ADAS Calibration Cost

ADAS calibration adds $200-500 to windshield replacement cost - confirm insurance coverage before proceeding

Right to Choose

In most states, you have the legal right to select your own auto glass repair shop

Protecting Your Rights as a Consumer

Consumers should be aware of their rights and potential issues when dealing with windshield warranties and insurance claims. Beware of steering. Some insurance companies may try to 'steer' you toward their preferred shops. While these shops may be reputable, you generally have the right to choose your own installer. Preferred shops may use aftermarket glass to reduce insurer costs. Get everything in writing. Obtain written warranties from both the glass manufacturer and installer. Understand exactly what is covered, for how long, and what might void the warranty. Know the red flags. Be cautious of installers who offer cash back or gift cards for using them (this may be insurance fraud), shops that pressure you to file a claim for pre-existing damage, or warranties that seem too good to be true or lack specific terms. Keep records. Maintain copies of all estimates, invoices, warranty documents, and correspondence with your insurance company. These records are essential if disputes arise.

Insurance Fraud Warning

Cash back offers or pressure to claim pre-existing damage may constitute insurance fraud

Anti-Steering Laws

Many states prohibit insurers from requiring you to use specific repair shops

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my vehicle warranty cover windshield damage?

Manufacturer warranties only cover defects in materials and workmanship, such as spontaneous stress cracks or faulty factory seals. They never cover damage from external impacts like rocks, hail, or accidents. For impact damage, you need comprehensive auto insurance.

What is the difference between comprehensive and collision coverage for windshields?

Comprehensive coverage pays for windshield damage from non-collision events like flying rocks, falling objects, hail, vandalism, and animal strikes. Collision coverage applies when windshield damage occurs during a collision with another vehicle or stationary object. Both are optional coverages.

Which states have zero-deductible windshield laws?

Three states mandate insurers waive comprehensive deductibles for windshield replacement: Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina. Five additional states require insurers to offer optional full glass coverage with zero deductibles: Arizona, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and New York.

Will insurance cover ADAS calibration after windshield replacement?

Yes, if windshield replacement is a covered claim, ADAS calibration should be covered as an integral part of the repair. However, some insurance adjusters push back on calibration costs. Reputable shops document the manufacturer mandate and pre-authorize calibration to ensure coverage.

Should I file an insurance claim for a small chip?

It depends on your deductible. If the repair cost is less than your deductible, pay out-of-pocket. However, many insurers voluntarily waive deductibles for repairs (versus replacements) because repairs are cheaper. Contact your insurer to verify your specific policy coverage.

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