Windshield Replacement

When a Windshield Needs Replacing, Not Repair

A small chip that is shallow and away from the edge can often be repaired instead. Replacement is the safer choice when the damage is large, deep or reaches the edge of the glass, because the windshield’s strength and clarity are part of how the car protects you.

Long Cracks and Edge Cracks

The repair industry calls a crack over six inches a long crack, and one that runs to the edge of the glass an edge crack. Edge cracks tend to spread with heat, cold and road shock, and they weaken the bond area around the frame. Most long and edge cracks end in a new windshield.

Damage in the Driver’s Line of Sight

Even a well-filled repair can leave a faint mark. In front of the driver, that mark can distort the view, so damage there often points to replacement even when it is small.

Chips Too Big to Repair

A quarter is a common rule of thumb for chips. A break bigger than that, a chip with several cracks running out of it, or one that has gone through the inner layer is usually past repair. Not sure? Send a photo with your quote request and we will tell you which job you have. If the damage is small enough to save, our windshield chip repair page explains what can be filled.

How We Replace Your Windshield

VIN Check and Glass Ordering

Windshields for the same model can differ by camera bracket, rain sensor, heated wiper area, acoustic layer or head-up display zone. We check the part against your vehicle identification number before we schedule, so the glass that arrives fits the brackets and sensors your car has.

Removing the Old Glass and Setting the New One

The technician protects the paint and interior, removes the trim and wipers, cuts out the old windshield and cleans the frame. The new glass is set in a fresh bead of urethane adhesive, which bonds it to the body, and the trim and wipers go back on.

Camera Calibration After Installation

Many modern vehicles need their driver-assist camera recalibrated after a windshield replacement, so lane departure and collision warning work correctly. We handle ADAS camera calibration on site to restore your vehicle’s safety features to manufacturer standards.

Safe Drive-Away Time

Most windshield replacements take about one hour, plus a short curing period so the adhesive can set properly. In most cases you are safely back on the road within two hours of the work being completed. The Auto Glass Safety Council notes that drive-away time depends on the adhesive and the weather, so the technician gives you the time for your car on the day.

OEM vs Aftermarket Windshields

OEM glass is made by the same manufacturer as your vehicle’s original glass, for a matching fit and clarity. Aftermarket glass meets the same safety standards but may vary slightly in thickness or tint. For cars with a windshield camera, those small differences can matter. Our technicians can recommend the right option for your vehicle and budget.

Windshield Replacement Cost and Insurance

What Changes the Price

The price depends on the glass your VIN calls for and the work around it: a camera bracket, rain sensor, heating or a head-up display zone, OEM or aftermarket glass, and whether the camera needs calibrating. Our quotes are all-inclusive, so there are no delivery, fuel or disposal fees added later.

Using Comprehensive Coverage

Most comprehensive insurance policies cover windshield repair or replacement, and many also include ADAS calibration. Impex Auto Glass works directly with all major insurance providers. In North Carolina, your comprehensive deductible applies unless your policy includes full glass coverage, and you choose the shop under G.S. 58-3-180. Our auto glass insurance guide covers the claim step by step.

Shop or Mobile Windshield Replacement

Drive in to our Greensboro shop on West Market Street, or, in Charlotte or anywhere else we serve, book mobile windshield replacement at your home or work. For a mobile visit, a dry spot where the technician can reach both sides of the car makes the job go smoothly. Need other glass done at the same time? See auto glass replacement for back and side windows.

Aftercare for a New Windshield

• Avoid washing the car or slamming the doors for 24 hours so the adhesive cures fully.
• Avoid harsh bumps for the first day.
• If a camera warning appears, call us to recheck the calibration.

Our team explains every aftercare step before you leave.