If, for instance, the windshield had a crack or chip, you would likely not be concerned. You would not bother yourself with the fact that the repair or replacement would not be under warranty. So, let’s get inside auto warranties, whereby you may need to deal with such matters to save some of the money you work so hard to earn. Find out if windshield replacement is covered by warranty, which classes of windshield damages are usually included in auto warranties, discover what kind of auto warranties exist, and understand the role of comprehensive auto insurance. What Windshield Damage is Typically Covered? Not all windshield damage types are equal. Knowing what is typically covered will help you plan for the potential costs. Typical coverages of warranties include the following: Manufacturing Defects: These include flaws caused by the manufacturing process, such as weak glass stress cracks or improper installation. Defects in materials or workmanship: Damage caused by a lack of quality products during manufacturing is usually covered through a basic or comprehensive warranty. Stress Cracks: Stress cracks are caused by a structural weakness in the glass or car frame itself. If the cracking results from no impact, then it must be a manufacturing flaw and probably covered by warranty. Unexpected Damage: This involves breakages caused by an outside source, such as road debris, a loose flying rock, or vandalism. Although these cracks are typically covered under comprehensive automobile insurance, some warranties offer coverage if they occur within a certain period and in certain circumstances. Some warranties do not cover the following: Cosmetic Damage: Minor scratches, chips, or blemishes that do not impact the windshield’s structural integrity. Wear and Tear: Damage caused by normal usage through time, including chips from normal driving conditions. Check your warranty documentation or contact your dealer for a complete description of what is included. Types of Vehicle Warranties Knowing all the available vehicle warranties is important so you will know what’s covered. For your guidance, here’s a breakdown: Basic Warranty Coverage: This warranty usually covers defects in material and workmanship. It guarantees free repair for any manufactured defects that may affect the quality of the vehicle. Duration: The warrant, in most cases, ranges from 3 to 5 years or by the number of miles driven (36,000 to 60,000 miles), typically through the manufacturer. Powertrain Warranty Coverage: This warranty covers the major components of your vehicle engine, transmission, and drivetrain (axles and transfer case)-protection against any failure or defects with such major components. Duration: Powertrain warranties generally are longer than standard warranties. According to the manufacturer’s policy, they normally last 5 to 10 years or up to 100,000 miles. Comprehensive Warranty (or Full Warranty) Coverage: This type of warranty is so comprehensive that it covers virtually everything that can be done to the vehicle and its systems, except for normal wear. Some plans include some types of windshield replacement. This can be a great policy when small damage calls for windshield replacement without costing too much out-of-pocket. Duration: It can be very different according to the company, and contracts are usually set for a minimum of 3 to 7 years, though often at higher mileage limits that may exceed 100,000 miles. Extended Warranty Coverage: Extendable warranties include coverages beyond the length of the initial warranty. Similar coverages often cover similar components as in the base warranty but often add extra features or roadside assistance. Duration: Extendable warranties may be acquired with different levels of years and may range from 1 year to 7 years, depending on the type of plan selected. Does Comprehensive Auto Insurance Play a Role? Comprehensive auto insurance can make all the difference when determining whether your windshield replacement is covered. This type of insurance provides extensive protection against a variety of Non collision incidents. Here’s what you should know: Non collision Events Coverages: The most complete form of insurance covers theft, vandalism, or other losses caused by natural causes, such as a hailstorm, fallen tree, etc. Such damage may lead to cracking and breaking the windshield. Windshield Repair and Replacement: Comprehensive insurance generally covers small-scale repairs and complete windshield replacements, depending on the type and severity of the damage. Deductibles and Out-Of-Pocket Expenses: Full-coverage insurance will reduce the expense of repairs; nonetheless, you must pay the deductible indicated in your policy out of pocket. The higher the deductible, the lesser your premium, but the greater the costs when making a claim. Claim Process and Preferred Providers: Processing claims for windshield repair or replacement isn’t much of a hassle. Having these usually makes the process smoother and even quicker to complete repairs. Review Your Policy: Check your comprehensive auto insurance to see what is covered and when. If you are unsure, call your provider. In simple terms, comprehensive auto insurance means valuable protection against damage caused by other incidents of windshield injuries. According to your policy conditions, it will help to repair or replace the windshield at reduced costs. Conclusion In summary, this all depends on your windshield type and the nature of the damage. Some warranties can cover some instances, but sometimes, comprehensive auto insurance will provide you with some protection for your windshield. Always review the warranty documents and automobile insurance policy to see what is there. Auto Glass America can meet all your windshield replacement and repair needs, including side window repairs, AutoGlass repair and ADAS Calibration at one location. Our skilled experts specialize in high-quality repairs that prioritize safety and customer satisfaction. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How Can I Tell if My Windshield Is Under Warranty? It is often possible to get windshield coverage information from warranty documents you may have received with your vehicle’s issuance or by contacting your dealership, which will determine what damages are included. Is a Cracked Windscreen Covered under Warranty? No, not under warranty. Coverage under warranty is determined on the individual basis of warranty terms. Of course, in most cases, if it is due to some manufacturing defect, then it would be covered. Is Cracked Glass Covered Under Warranty? In most cases, cracked glass is covered under standard warranties only if it results from a defect.
