Does Car Insurance Cover Windshield Repair?
Comprehensive insurance can cover windshield repair or replacement, depending on your policy and state rules.
- Check if your policy waives the deductible for glass claims.
- Use an approved repair shop to streamline coverage.
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Does insurance cover windshield repair or replacement?
Your auto insurance policy likely covers windshield repair or replacement, though you will need to carry comprehensive coverage. However, using your insurance may not be the best or cheapest way to take care of windshield damage.
⚠️ If your windshield is damaged in an accident in which you were not at fault, the damage will be paid for by the property damage liability coverage of the at-fault party.
If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance will usually cover windshield damage. But for small chips or cracks that cost less than your deductible, paying out of pocket often makes more sense.
For full windshield replacement — which can run hundreds of dollars — filing a claim is usually the better option unless your deductible is very high (over $1,000). Glass claims may cause a slight premium increase, but the impact is typically minimal compared to other types of claims.
If the damage was caused by vandalism, be sure to file a police report right away to support your claim.
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What kind of coverage handles windshield damage?
Your windshield and auto glass are covered by your car insurance if you carry comprehensive coverage. This coverage can protect your vehicle from non-collision damages including weather damage (like hail, flooding, etc.), theft and animal damage (including colliding with larger animals such as deer). When paired with collision coverage, this combination is often referred to as “full coverage.”
Consider adding comprehensive coverage if your vehicle is worth $4,000 or more. Bear in mind that comprehensive claims are often subject to a deductible.
Do you have to pay a deductible?
Since windshield claims fall under comprehensive insurance, your deductible usually applies. This is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance covers the rest—typically between $250 and $1,000. Keep in mind: a lower deductible means higher monthly premiums.
Some insurers, like GEICO, may waive the deductible for minor glass repairs if you have comprehensive coverage. Check with your provider to see if they offer this. Just note that while one company may not raise your rate after a claim, another insurer might consider it if you switch.
Will windshield claims raise your rates?
Windshield damage falls under comprehensive coverage and can lead to higher premiums. On average, a comprehensive claim adds about $34 to a six-month policy, and it may stay on your record for three to five years.
That said, glass claims usually impact your rates far less than collision claims. For example, a collision claim can raise your premium by around $335 for a six-month policy. Insurers see collision claims as more within the driver’s control, while comprehensive claims (like windshield damage) are often unavoidable.
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How to file a damaged windshield claim
Filing a glass claim works much like any other claim. Start by contacting your insurance company — either by calling your agent, filing online, or using the mobile app to upload photos and get things moving quickly.
If the damage was caused by vandalism, file a police report right away, then begin the claims process with your insurer as usual.
How to get your windshield fixed
Small chips or cracks can often be repaired if you act fast—before weather or bumps make the damage worse. Early fixes can help you avoid a full replacement.
Insurers usually partner with repair shops, and national providers like Safelite (or local shops) can handle repairs quickly, often with mobile service that comes to you.
Just remember: you may need to pay your deductible unless your policy waives it.
Windshield repair with insurance: considerations
Deciding whether to file a claim comes down to your coverage, the repair cost, and your deductible. In many cases, comprehensive claims won’t raise your premium much — and some insurers even waive the deductible for glass-only repairs.
If you do need to switch carriers after a claim, shopping around can save you money. Each insurer treats glass claims differently, so comparing quotes helps you find the best rate for the coverage you need.
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About The Zebra
The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.
- The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
- The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
- The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
- The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.
