Windshield Repair & Auto Glass Replacement in Texas| Safelite (2024)

FAQs

Does Texas have free windshield replacement? ›

Free Full-Glass Insurance Laws in Texas

The “free windshield replacement” rule in Texas is misleading. It means you won't pay for replacement if you have comprehensive coverage with a zero-deductible windshield replacement rider.

In Texas, the overall average cost of windshield replacements for large vehicles typically range from $301.92, and for small to mid-size vehicles they range from $300.81.

Driving with a cracked windshield in Texas is not illegal, but it can still result in a traffic ticket if it obstructs the driver's view. Texas law requires that drivers have a clear view of the road, and any damage to the windshield that obstructs the driver's vision can result in a fine.

Safelite can usually repair your windshield if the damage meets these conditions: The damage is under 6 inches in length* The point of impact is smaller than a dime. There are no more than 3 chips.

Filing an Auto Glass Claim May Impact Your Insurance Rate

Generally, the more claims you file, the greater your chances of incurring a higher monthly bill. If the damage was your fault, even if it's your first claim, there's a definite chance your rate will increase.

Will I Fail My Inspection If My Windshield Is Cracked? The windshield is NOT an item of inspection. However, the windshield wipers are. Be sure that the crack does not cause the wipers to tear and that the crack has not caused the windshield to become concave or convex so the wipers lose contact with the windshield.

Length of the Crack

If the length of a crack is over 3.5 inches, you should expect the technician to go for an auto windshield replacement. It is important to keep in mind that the length of a crack might increase further if you continue to drive.

In other words, if your car has a chip or crack in the glass, that can literally make the entire car less safe to drive or ride in. Another reason not to drive your car with a splintered windshield is that a cracked windshield can easily and quickly become far more damaged than it at first appears.

Q: Can a cracked windshield be fixed without replacing the whole thing? A: Yes, if the crack is small and not in the driver's line of sight. However, this should be assessed and repaired by professionals to ensure safety is not compromised. Your windshield is a critical safety component of your vehicle.

Broken windshields: Arizona leads the nation in glass repair.

Will a cracked windshield fall apart? ›

You might wonder, can a cracked windshield break while driving? Yes, cracked windshields can shatter while driving and cause serious safety issues. Moreover, understanding local cracked windshield laws and considering timely auto glass replacement or repair is important information every driver should know.

There should be no cracks in the windshield, and all your mirrors should be clean and void of damage. A Texas DPS driving test examiner will want to know you're in complete control of the vehicle. You should know where everything is, from the gearshift, to the turn signal, to the emergency brake.

With the advent of better resins and repair techniques, some specialists can repair longer cracks in windshield that would have been deemed irreparable a decade ago. However, even with advanced techniques, a 12-inch crack is pushing the limits of what's typically considered repairable.

While these kits are effective for addressing small damage, it's essential to note that they are not suitable for repairing extensive cracks or damage that impairs the driver's line of sight, in which case professional auto glass replacement may be necessary.

Crack Size and Depth:

Usually, auto glass technicians can repair a chip, which has a diameter of around one inch or less. Likewise, a crack is also repairable, if it is no more than three inches long. If the size of the crack is more than that of a dollar bill, you should rule out the repair option.

Shop Around for Quotes:

Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Invest time in shopping around and obtaining quotes from different vehicle auto glass repair shops. Prices and services can vary, and by comparing them, you increase your chances of finding a more affordable option.

Windshield obstruction law. Texas Transportation Code 547.613 bars drivers from operating motor vehicles with any objects or materials attached to the windshield, side window or rear window that reduces or obstructs the driver's clear view. Doing so is a misdemeanor, punishable with a fine of up to $1,000.

Free windshield replacement - The states of Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina are known to waive the broken glass deductible. This means that your insurance can wholly cover the windshield replacement.