How much does it cost to replace your windscreen?

Types of windscreen damage

• Scratches are surface marks.

• Chips, also known as ‘stone breaks’ or ‘pits’, are generally small, deep holes.

• Cracks can range from hairline fractures to deep cracks, and vary in length and shape.

A small scratch, chip or crack might seem unimportant, but any of these can quickly turn into a much bigger problem if you don’t act promptly.

A minor scratch will get bigger or deeper the longer it’s left unchecked. As it’s already worn down part of the windscreen, any further wear (including being hit by road debris or repeated rubbing from windscreen wipers) can exacerbate the damage. In the worst case scenario, it can turn into a crack.

If left untreated, a chip can also spread and become a crack, due to factors such as the vibrations caused by driving, further road debris hitting the windscreen, and even changes in temperature.

If your windscreen already has a crack, it’s imperative to get it replaced as soon as possible. Not only is it likely to get bigger every time you drive, there’s a good chance your windscreen will eventually shatter altogether.

Windscreen repair costs

Repairing a broken windscreen doesn’t have to break the bank, if you act as soon as you spot any minor damage. Costs will vary according to the extent of the damage, where it’s located, the make and model of the car, and any special features the windscreen has.

Typical repair costs for a chipped windscreen are as follows:

Budget: £30 to £50

Mid-range: £50 to £70

Premium: £70 to £170

A cracked windscreen is a much more complicated job, so expect to pay more:

Budget: £50 to £70

Mid-range: £70 to £100

Premium: £100 to £150

Please note: In many cases, cracks can’t be repaired, so you’ll need to replace the entire windscreen.

Windscreen replacement costs

How much it costs to replace your windscreen will vary depending on numerous factors:

• A basic windscreen for a budget car may cost around £250, rising to almost £2,000 for a luxury car with a high-tech windscreen.

Lower-end windscreen replacement (with no added extras or features)

Vauxhall Corsa: £220

Citroen Dispatch: £232

Kia Carens: £256

Mid-range windscreen replacement

Fiat Panda: £539

Jeep Grand Cherokee: £688

Renault Megane: £893

High-end windscreen replacement

Ford Mondeo: £1389

BMW 5 Series: £1592

Jaguar XJ: £1976

Insurance coverage

Most insurance policies include windscreen cover, which can be useful if you’re looking at an expensive replacement job.

However, if you decide to make a claim, you’ll probably have to pay an excess, so weigh up the cost of the claim first. If it’s a simple repair for a chip or small scratch, it might be more economical to pay for it yourself.

Repair vs. replacement

If you’re dealing with minor damage, such as a small chip, having it repaired is usually the best option.

However, sometimes, replacement is necessary, even when the damage seems to be minor. For example, a chip at eyeline level on the driver’s side, several small chips, or scratches in different places would warrant replacement.

Of course, there are other considerations:

• If you’re on a budget, you may not be able to afford a full replacement.

• If your car is old or heavily customised, your service provider might not be able to source the right windscreen.

• You may only have time for a quick repair.

• If the damage occurred away from home, you may just want a ‘sticking plaster’ to last until you return.

Whatever you decide, remember that checking regularly for little chips and scratches could save you the cost of a full windscreen replacement.

Selecting a service provider

It’s important to choose a reliable and professional service provider to repair or replace your windscreen.

Shop around – and make sure your chosen provider has the right experience and a solid reputation for windscreen repair and replacement. They should also use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standard glass (or equivalent), along with other certified material - and offer a guarantee or warranty.

Also, check reviews online and ask for recommendations from friends and family.

Some service providers have environmentally friendly practices, for example, recycling windscreens and other auto glass, so it’s worth asking about these too.

Preventing windscreen damage

If you spot a chip or scratch on your windscreen, stop driving if possible – and arrange for it to be repaired.

If you do have to drive your car, cover the damage with clear repair tape, drive very carefully and steadily. Try to avoid extreme temperatures or weather that requires you to use your windscreen wipers.

Important: You should not attempt to drive with a cracked windscreen. If you are caught doing so by the police, you could receive a fine and three penalty points on your licence.

General windscreen repair and maintenance tips

• When you need windscreen repair and replacement, get quotes from a variety of providers to ensure you’re getting the best possible service and value.

• Request a detailed breakdown from each provider, including exactly what the work will entail, how long it’s going to take, and what parts will be used.

• It’s important to keep records of any repair and replacement work. Missing repair records can affect your motor’s resale value when you sell your car.

• Proactively check your windscreen for any minor chips and scratches to avoid hefty repair bills.