- Car Glass Tips
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Getting a chip or crack on your windscreen can be annoying, but it is important to repair it as soon as possible. If the damage is severe, you may even need a replacement. Several things can affect the final cost of your windscreen replacement, and Top Windscreens is here to talk about the three most common factors.
Vehicle Type
One of the first things any car repair or glass repair company will ask is what type of car you drive. The make and model of car can impact the price of the replacement dramatically. The reason that the type of vehicle is so important is that certain cars require specialty windscreens. Higher-end models such as a Lexus or Mercedes will need replacement windscreens that can only be sourced from the dealer or the manufacturer itself. When compared with non-luxury cars, that means the price of replacing the glass will probably be two or three times what you may have been expecting.
Windscreen Special Features
Not every windscreen uses special features, but if your car does, then they will need to be included in your replacement. This can predictably cause the cost of replacement to increase over a basic windscreen. Special features include but are not limited to:
- Rain sensors
- Special moldings
- Shade bands
- Condensation sensors
There can be as many as five different sensors embedded in your windscreen that communicate with your vehicle. This can increase the cost of replacement by as much as $500 or more. Of course, older cars are often lacking new features, which can keep your replacement cost to a minimum.
Glass Type
All windscreens protect the driver and the passengers, but not all glass is made equal. The type of glass you choose for your replacement windscreen can cause the final price to increase or decrease according to the type you choose. The safety of your occupants is the most important factor to consider, followed by the functionality of the glass itself. Three basic types of glass can be used for windscreen replacements.
- Original Equipment Manufacturer – OEM glass is not from the original manufacturer but it is crafted following the same rules, specifications, and regulations as the original glass.
- Original Equipment – OE glass is sourced directly for the manufacturer is the most expensive of all replacement options.
- Aftermarket – This glass is made by independent companies and the thickness and durability of the glass will vary from maker to maker. This is the most affordable, but the least reliable option for replacement.
Minimizing Your Cost
There are ways to reduce your windscreen replacement cost. Some car insurance companies may pay for repair and waive your deductible. In other cases, they may only pay a portion. Our concern is that you are safe when you get back on the road. The Top Windscreens team is happy to work out a payment arrangement that helps you get a replacement windscreen for your car at an affordable rate. To find out more about our services or to get a quote for windscreen replacement in Manchester, give us a call at 07707550375.