Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. Safelite works with over 150 insurance companies and can handle all the paperwork for you. They're basically the middleman you actually want—they'll verify your coverage, file your claim, and deal with the insurance bureaucracy so you don't have to. Plus, if you have comprehensive coverage, you'll likely only pay your deductible.

If you've got comprehensive coverage, it's a no-brainer. Most insurance companies cover windshield replacement under comprehensive, and many won't even count it as a claim against your policy. In some states like South Carolina, there's literally no deductible for auto glass services.

Nope, not typically. Insurance companies generally don't count auto glass claims against your policy, so your rates should stay put. Think of it as one of the rare times insurance actually works in your favor. But double-check with your specific carrier to be 100% sure.

Unless your deductible is higher than the replacement cost (which would be a pretty brutal deductible), absolutely yes. Many insurers cover windshield repairs at 100% with no deductible. Even for full replacements, you're looking at paying just your deductible versus the full $300-1200+ out of pocket.

First, check if you can repair instead of replace—repairs are always cheaper and Safelite can fix damage under 6 inches with impact points smaller than a dime. Use your insurance if you have comprehensive coverage. Look for military, AAA, or first responder discounts. Consider aftermarket glass over OEM if quality isn't your top priority.

The actual replacement takes about an hour, but plan for at least two hours total. You'll need to wait an additional hour after installation before driving to let the urethane adhesive set. Pro tip: the adhesive isn't fully secure for collision protection until 8 hours later, so drive carefully and head straight home if possible. It's always good to double-check with your selected auto glass vendor to be 100% sure.

Get it repaired ASAP—cracks grow with temperature changes and road vibrations. You can try a windshield repair kit for immediate emergency fixes, but be warned: once you use a DIY kit, professional repair options become limited. The best move is scheduling professional repair before the crack spreads beyond repairable limits.