Does Insurance Cover Windshield Replacement? A Complete Guide

The Short Answer: It Depends on Your Policy

Whether your auto insurance covers windshield replacement depends on the type of coverage you carry. Comprehensive coverage — which protects against non-collision damage like weather, theft, and road debris — is the key. If you only carry liability insurance, windshield replacement will be an out-of-pocket expense.

The good news? If you do have comprehensive coverage, most insurers will cover all or part of the replacement cost. And in some states, they're required by law to waive your deductible entirely for windshield claims.

States with Zero-Deductible Windshield Laws

Several states have passed laws requiring insurers to waive the deductible for windshield replacement. As of 2026, these states include:

• Florida — Full coverage with $0 deductible for windshield replacement
• Arizona — Insurers must offer optional $0 deductible windshield coverage
• Kentucky — No deductible applies to windshield-only claims
• South Carolina — Deductible waived for safety glass replacement
• Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota — Similar zero-deductible provisions

Texas does not currently have a zero-deductible windshield law, meaning your standard comprehensive deductible applies. However, many Texas insurers offer add-on glass coverage with a $0 or reduced deductible for a small additional premium.

How to File a Windshield Insurance Claim

1. Document the damage — Take clear photos of the crack or chip, including close-ups and wide shots showing location on the windshield
2. Contact your insurance company — Call the claims number on your insurance card or use their mobile app
3. Get a quote — Your insurer may have preferred shops, but you have the right to choose your own installer in most states
4. Schedule the replacement — Once the claim is approved, schedule with your chosen installer
5. Pay your deductible — If applicable, you'll pay your deductible directly to the glass shop

Will a Windshield Claim Raise My Rates?

This is the question everyone asks, and the answer is generally reassuring: no. In most states and with most insurers, a comprehensive claim for windshield replacement is considered a "no-fault" claim and will not increase your premiums. Windshield damage from road debris is not caused by driver error, so insurers typically treat it differently than collision claims.

That said, filing multiple comprehensive claims in a short period could potentially affect your rates. If you have a small chip that can be repaired for $50-$100, it may not be worth filing a claim — especially if your deductible is $500.

What About ADAS Calibration Costs?

Modern vehicles with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) — including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control — require camera calibration after windshield replacement. This can add $150-$500 to the total cost.

The good news: comprehensive insurance policies generally cover ADAS calibration as part of the windshield replacement claim. Make sure your installer performs this calibration and that it's included in the insurance estimate. Learn more in our ADAS calibration guide.

Average Windshield Replacement Costs

Understanding the typical costs helps you evaluate whether to file a claim:

• Standard sedan: $250 - $450
• SUV or truck: $300 - $600
• Luxury vehicle: $500 - $1,500+
• ADAS calibration: $150 - $500 additional

For a detailed breakdown, see our complete windshield replacement cost guide.

Tips to Minimize Your Out-of-Pocket Cost

1. Add glass coverage to your policy — Many insurers offer $0-deductible glass coverage for just $2-$5/month
2. Repair chips early — A $75 repair today prevents a $450 replacement next month
3. Compare quotes — Prices vary significantly between installers. Get at least 2-3 estimates
4. Ask about OEM vs. aftermarket — Aftermarket glass can save 30-50% with comparable quality
5. Check for promotions — Many glass shops offer seasonal discounts or price matching