Windshield

[woyster_00z71]

My tahoe has several rock chips in the windshield. Several were there when I bought it but a couple are new. Anyway, yesterday morning on the way to work it was about 32 outside. I had the defroster on for awhile and then turned it off to get some heat on me. Well I heard this popping noise like somebody popping their back and noticed my windshield had split 8" in one direction and about 24" in another from one of the rock chips.

 

My question is, should I have the windshield replaced? I have a $25 other than collision deductible on my insurance to cover things like this but I have been told that many have problems with replacement windshields sealing and such. Other problems are inspection sticker, license sticker, EZ-Tag, rear view mirror, compass/temp guage, etc.

 

If I was to get it replaced, where should I go? Dealer, aftermarket windshield shop, or does the insurance place have to tell me where to go? Will it go as a claim against my insurance and raise my rates?

 

Thanks for the help.

B.J.

[97whitez71]

I've had several replaced over the years and no problems with leaks, wind noise, etc. They'll tell you to not shut the doors with the windows up for at least 24 hours. Other than that, that's all you have to do. My insurance deductible is $50 and have never had to pay it. The local glass repair shop waives the deductible for me. I'm sure they get the money from somewhere. I use Dixie Glass here in MS.

[Bob G.]

Pay the $25 and get it replaced. Any reputable windshield shop should be able to take care of the stickers and mirror. Call your insurance company first because they may deal with a certain shop. I live in VT and we get windshields replaced regularly and I've never had one leak. Our shops do the work in a heated garage during the winter months and will do it at your location during the summer.

 

Bob G.

[carguru]

You should not have any problems with the other components as long as everything gets plugged back in correctly and that they use an OEM type windshield. With that being said, the only thing that might be an issue is just make sure that you give it the sufficient amount of time to cure or it can leak. Take all of the precautions to leave the window opened slightly to vent pressure buildup from doors closing. Depending on the outside temps, usually about 4 to 6 hours wait should be sufficient. It is best to wait until the temp is warmer, but if you need one now.....

 

As far as insurance rates, windshield replacements usually don't cause the rates to go up unless you have several in a row in a very short time period.

 

Dealers usually contract windshields out to outside companies. I would just check with your insurance company first, if there is no preferrence, then find a reputable shop that deals in OEM quality glass. Typically, these shops will carry PPG, etc name brand glass. Good luck.

[RyanbabZ71]

I had mine done this summer. List price on a silverado windshield was $667 I paid like $250 (deductable was $250). It pays to know people. I also have the temp/compass mirror and they put it back perfect. I havent had any problems with mine. I was too leary like you but now thats its done i can say its a huge relief

[99-2door]

Most new windshields now come with the button for the mirror pre-attached, so they don't hav the problem of falling off like they used to. No question here, get the shield replaced. A crack not only looks bad, it is annoying to have to look through them.

[woyster_00z71]

Thanks guys. I called the insurance company and they gave me a list of shops but then I called my dealership and they gave me their recommended shop. So, after calling the insurance back, I have an appointment for 8am tomorrow to get it replaced with a PPG or LOS? windshield for my $50 deductible.

 

Anything I need to look out for at the shop?

 

Thanks for all your help,

B.J.

[carguru]

I would make sure to ask enough questions to the shop to ensure that they know what they were doing. Ask them if they are going to keep it in the shop to let it warm up, how to care for the glass after they put it in, how long before you should drive it, etc. I know the few shops I have used in the past had pamphlets about all of this. Many of the guys also were very willing to tell you how they are proceeding and caring for the glass before they get started.

[99silveradoz71]

Get it done, at least here in Ohio, you must have a clear and unobstructed view...blah blah- long story short, you can be cited for a cracked windshield. Also, with a temperature change, you don't know how much more it will split.