Northeastern Pennsylvania drivers can expect to pay between $300 and $1500 for a windshield replacement.
These costs vary depending on the size, make, and year of your vehicle, with larger vehicles like trucks costing more for replacement on average.
Drivers may be surprised to learn that their insurance coverage often covers a bulk of these costs, saving them hundreds of dollars on out-of-pocket costs.
In addition, there are several ways to lower your windshield replacement bills, from addressing repairs early to working with a reputable shop.
Driving through the treacherous roads of Northeast Pennsylvania–ranked one of the worst states for potholes–can turn a simple chip into a crack that requires replacement.
The quality of the shop you choose is also important because shopping for the cheapest auto glass replacement in Northeast Pennsylvania may not save you all that much money if you get a poor replacement or your windshield comes back miscalibrated.
This guide will help you find ways to save money on your windshield replacement without sacrificing quality or worrying about the long-term integrity of your windshield.
8 Ways to Lower Your Windshield Repair Costs
1. Work with Your Insurance Company
The first thing our financial department looks at whenever we get a new quote is your insurance coverage to see if we can work with your provider to cover a portion of the costs.
Luckily, if you lease or have a loan on a vehicle, your lender may require comprehensive coverage, which does cover windshield repair and replacement costs with a deductible.
In instances where the damage is caused by a collision, your coverage or the other driver’s may cover the cost of the repair.
However, even if you do not have collision or comprehensive coverage, there are additional ways to lower the cost of your auto glass repair.
2. Get Your Auto Glass Repaired ASAP
If you notice a crack or chip in your windshield, we urge you to bring in your vehicle immediately for auto glass repair.
Not only does your windshield reinforce your roof in the event of an accident, but you can save hundreds of dollars repairing your windshield vs. replacing it.
However, windshield chip repair is only available for superficial damage that impacts the top layer of glass. Our special resin fill helps seal all surface-level cracks and chips to get your windshield looking brand-new again.
Unfortunately, cracks or chips that penetrate the laminate material underneath will require an entire replacement. Likewise, chips or cracks that spread to the edge of your windshield will require replacement.
That’s why it’s important to repair chips and cracks as soon as they are identified so that you can save money.
3. Look for Complementary Mobile Services
One recent innovation that many auto glass repair shops have adopted in recent years has been mobile windshield repair vans.
These mobile services help save you money on gas and enable you to repair your windshield from the comfort of your home without risking a drive to the next town over.
Northeast Auto Glass offers our mobile repair services at a complimentary price for the same cost as our in-shop repair.
Keep in mind that extensive windshield damage or replacements that require complex calibration will require us to replace the windshield at our shop in Wilkes-Barre.
4. Shop for Quotes
Price hunting for quotes is one way to find the best price for your windshield repair or replacement.
However, we caution you against taking the best quote without thoroughly researching the company to see what services they provide, such as warranties.
5. Search for Shops that Offer Warranties
One way to protect your auto glass repair against future costs is to find a windshield repair shop offering warranties on all its products.
At Northeast Auto Glass, all of our auto glass repairs and replacements come fully backed with a lifetime warranty, protecting you against damage that is out of your control.
6. Avoid Cheap Windshield Replacement Parts
We highly caution most drivers against working with shops that offer aftermarket auto glass for repairs. Proper calibration is key to maintaining the driveability of modern vehicles equipped with ADAS.
While some aftermarket parts may be a cost-effective solution for older vehicles, they are often cheaply made and only last a few years before incurring damage.
Remember, your windshield is an essential part of your vehicle’s frame, protecting you from your roof caving in during the event of a collision. Opting for cheap parts could be a safety hazard for you and any passengers who enter your vehicle.
7. Why DIY and Cheap Windshield Repair Kits Don’t Work
Likewise, cheap auto glass repair kits available over the counter are poor replacements for actual auto glass repair services.
At best, these kits are ineffective and do nothing to seal cracks, leaving them visible across your windshield.
At worst, they are ineffective, but they still invite moisture and other debris to enter cracks in your windshield and expand into deeper damage.
8. Practice Safe Prevention
Finally, you can save money by avoiding the need for windshield repair and replacement altogether. Our technicians have laid out a few tips you can practice to prolong the life and integrity of your windshield:
- Maintain Safe Following Distance: When driving, maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles, especially large trucks or vehicles carrying loose cargo. This reduces the likelihood of debris kicked up by other vehicles hitting your windshield.
- Avoid Construction Zones and Gravel Roads: If possible, try to avoid driving through construction zones or on gravel roads. These environments can increase the risk of rocks and debris hitting your windshield.
- Park Away from Trees and Construction Sites: When parking your vehicle, choose spots away from overhanging trees and construction sites. Branches, falling leaves, and construction debris can potentially damage your windshield.
- Replace Worn Wiper Blades: Worn-out or damaged wiper blades can scratch your windshield, especially during inclement weather. Regularly inspect and replace your wiper blades to ensure they are in good condition.
- Use a Windshield Sunshade: When parking your vehicle during hot weather, use a windshield sunshade. This helps protect your windshield from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can weaken the glass over time and make it more susceptible to cracks and chips.
Why You Should Beware of Cheap Windshield Replacement Fixes
Some local auto glass shops and mechanics may advertise themselves as the cheapest windshield replacement option, but drivers need to be aware of the consequences of a poor windshield replacement.
In addition to safety and durability issues, most modern windshields require ADAS calibration. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, even one degree of miscalibration can impact the functionality of your driver safety features.
Miscalibrated windshields from poor-quality shops are a scenario we encounter too often, which ends up costing drivers more out of pocket than if they went with us for the initial repair.
It’s important to trust a shop that is trusted by your insurance, performs proper services, and uses high-quality windshield parts.
Avoid cheap DIY kits, especially for any damage over an inch in diameter or that penetrates to the lowest levels of glass, as these cannot seal cracks properly and will exacerbate the damage.
For windshield repair and replacement done correctly and at an affordable price, turn to the experts at Northeast Auto Glass. Northeast Auto Glass proudly serves drivers throughout Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, Hazleton, Pittston, and surrounding NEPA towns.
Whether you’re searching for affordable auto glass replacement or need help understanding your windshield replacement cost without insurance, our certified technicians make it easy and affordable.
We will work with your insurance company to help cover the cost of your auto glass services and provide fast service to get you on the road in no time. Contact us today for a free quote!
FAQs
How much does windshield replacement cost without insurance?
The cost of a windshield replacement in Pennsylvania without insurance typically ranges from $300 to $6=1500 for most standard vehicles.
Factors that affect the price include:
- Vehicle make and model: Luxury or vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) can cost $500–$1,500 or more.
- Type of glass: OEM (original equipment manufacturer) glass is slightly more expensive than aftermarket glass, though its quality may be comparable depending on the aftermarket brand.
- Labor and calibration: Modern windshields may require ADAS sensor recalibration, which adds to labor costs.
For small chips or minor cracks, repairing instead of replacing can cost as little as $50–$150, which is much cheaper than a full replacement.
What is the cheapest way to replace a windshield?
The cheapest way is to repair small chips early, use insurance coverage if available, and choose a reputable shop offering affordable OEM glass and mobile service. Avoid “too cheap” fixes that use low-quality glass.
Can all types of auto glass damage be repaired?
No, not all damages are repairable. Typically, small chips (smaller than a quarter) and cracks (less than a few inches) can be repaired, but extensive damage may require replacement.
How long does a repair take?
Most repairs can be completed in under an hour. It’s a relatively quick process that involves cleaning the damaged area, injecting resin, and allowing it to cure.
Is it safe to drive with a damaged windshield?
It’s generally recommended that any damage be repaired promptly. Small chips and cracks can compromise the windshield’s integrity, potentially worsening over time due to temperature changes or road vibrations.
