Is a cracked windshield covered under warranty?

In most cases, cracked windshields are not covered by a vehicle’s factory warranty. They’re typically handled through comprehensive insurance or, in some cases, a separate glass warranty offered by the manufacturer or dealer. This article explains how coverage usually works, how to tell if a crack qualifies as a defect, and what steps to take to confirm your options.

Warranty coverage: what to expect

Understanding how warranties treat windshield issues helps you know where you stand before you file a claim.

• Windshield damage caused by road hazards, temperature changes, or environmental factors is generally excluded from standard bumper-to-bumper warranties.


• Some brands offer a dedicated glass or windshield warranty that may cover defects in the windshield itself or issues with installation, but terms are highly variable and not universal.


• If the crack results from a manufacturing defect or improper installation, coverage may apply under the warranty only if the defect is identified within the warranty period and meets the manufacturer’s criteria.


• Damage that results from impact (e.g., a rock strike) is typically not covered by the warranty and is more commonly handled through insurance or paid repair.

Bottom line: always review your warranty documents and talk with the dealer or manufacturer to determine if a crack could be considered a defect and thus eligible for coverage.

Defect vs damage: how to tell

Manufacturing defect indicators

Cracks or blemishes that originate from the glass itself rather than an impact or environmental cause—such as distortion along the edge, uniform chips around the perimeter, or issues present from when the windshield was installed—may be considered defects and could fall under a glass warranty if one exists.

Road hazard or other damage indicators

Cracks that appear after a stone strike, a sudden temperature fluctuation, or improper installation are typically treated as damage rather than defects and are not usually covered by the standard warranty.

Steps to confirm coverage

To determine available coverage, follow these steps.

• Find your vehicle’s warranty booklet or online warranty portal and search for sections about glass or windshield coverage.


• Check for a separate glass warranty or windshield protection program that may be tied to your model or dealership.


• Review your auto insurance policy for comprehensive coverage that includes windshield claims, noting any deductible and whether there are optional glass riders or zero-deductible options.


• Contact the dealer or the vehicle manufacturer’s customer service for a formal assessment and to initiate any claim, providing photos and a description of how the crack occurred.


• If the issue is suspected to be a defect, request an inspection or diagnostic by an authorized technician to determine eligibility.

After you’ve completed these steps, you’ll have a clearer picture of whether the crack can be covered under warranty, under insurance, or if you’ll need to pay out of pocket.

Summary

Cracked windshields are rarely covered by a standard factory warranty, and coverage often depends on whether the crack stems from a manufacturing defect or improper installation. In most scenarios, road-damage cracks are addressed through comprehensive auto insurance or, if available, a separate glass warranty. Always review your warranty documents, consult with the dealer, and verify your insurance coverage to understand your options and any potential costs.

Will my insurance go up if I claim a cracked windshield?

If you file a windshield claim, your insurance company typically won't apply a surcharge, which is the rise in your insurance premium.

Is it worth filing a claim for a cracked windshield?

It is worth filing a claim for a cracked windshield if the repair or replacement cost is significantly higher than your deductible, but not if the cost is less than your deductible. Before filing, check your policy to confirm you have comprehensive coverage and understand your deductible, especially for glass-specific claims. If the damage is minor, you can likely save money by paying for the repair out of pocket. 
When to file a claim

• Repair/Replacement cost exceeds your deductible: If the cost is higher than your deductible, filing a claim makes sense because the insurance company will cover the difference. 
• Damage is severe: A large crack or shattered windshield can obstruct your view and may be illegal to drive with, making a claim necessary for a prompt replacement. 
• Multiple glass panels are damaged: If your side or rear windows are also damaged, filing a comprehensive claim can help manage the total repair cost. 
• Cost is financially straining: If paying out of pocket would cause financial strain, it is a viable option to use your insurance. 

When to consider paying out of pocket

• Repair cost is less than your deductible: It's often more cost-effective to pay for minor repairs yourself rather than filing a claim. 
• You have a high deductible: If your deductible is very high, it may be cheaper to pay for the repair out of pocket even for a large crack. 

Before you file a claim

• Check your policy: Confirm you have comprehensive coverage and understand your deductible. Some policies have a separate, lower glass deductible or even waive it entirely for windshield repair. 
• Get a quote: Obtain an estimate for the repair or replacement from a professional auto glass shop. 
• Document the damage: Take clear photos of the crack or chip. 
• Don't wait: File the claim as soon as possible after the damage occurs and before you have any repairs done. 
• Know the potential impact: While many insurers don't surcharge for a single glass claim, frequent claims could lead to a premium increase or higher rates. 

Is a cracked windscreen covered by warranty?

If you buy a new car and immediately get a chip from a stone, it's unlikely to be covered under the manufacturer's standard warranty. If your windscreen cracks due to being improperly installed, however, it's worth getting in touch with the manufacturer as this is more likely to be covered under any standard warranty.

Does GA replace windshields for free?

No, windshield replacement is not free in Georgia, as the state does not mandate free replacements. However, if you have comprehensive auto insurance with a zero-deductible glass-only policy, the replacement may be free or have a very low out-of-pocket cost for repair. Otherwise, you will be responsible for your insurance deductible, if applicable, or the full cost if paying out-of-pocket. 
How to determine if your windshield replacement will be free

• Check your insurance policy: Look for "comprehensive" or "glass-only" coverage, and pay close attention to the deductible amount. 
• If you have a zero-deductible policy: You likely won't have to pay anything for replacement, though it's important to confirm the policy details with your insurer. 
• If you have a comprehensive policy with a deductible: You will need to pay your deductible, which can range from around $100 to over $1,000 depending on the policy. Some policies have a separate, lower deductible for glass claims. 
• If you don't have comprehensive coverage: You will have to pay the full cost of the replacement yourself. 

Other factors to consider

• Deductible: The deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. 
• Out-of-pocket costs: If you don't have comprehensive coverage, you'll be responsible for the full replacement cost, which can range from approximately $275 to $550 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. 
• Potential rate increases: Filing an insurance claim, even for a windshield, can potentially lead to higher premiums in the future. 
• Deductible on repairs vs. replacement: You may not have a deductible for a minor chip repair, but a deductible will likely apply if the windshield needs to be replaced after an unsuccessful repair. 
• Out-of-pocket vs. insurance claim: Paying out-of-pocket can be a faster process, but it means you are responsible for the full cost. Filing an insurance claim might involve a longer approval process, but your out-of-pocket cost will be limited to your deductible.