Luckily, your car insurance can cover windshield replacement, but only if your policy includes comprehensive coverage or, in some states, extended glass coverage.
Let’s take a look at what you should know about how your car insurance can help if you need to replace your windshield.
TL;DR
- Windshield replacement is typically covered by car insurance if you have comprehensive coverage or optional glass coverage, which minimizes out-of-pocket costs
- Collision coverage helps with windshield repair or replacement costs if damage occurs during an accident involving another vehicle
- Costs to replace a windshield vary widely, ranging from $200 to over $1,500 depending on your car’s make, model, and advanced features (like ADAS systems)
- Liability-only insurance doesn’t cover windshield damage to your car
How does car insurance cover a windshield replacement?
Depending on what caused damage to your windshield your car insurance can help replace it if you have collision, comprehensive, or extended glass coverage.
Collision coverage
If your windshield is damaged in an accident involving another vehicle or a stationary object—like a lamp post— collision coverage can come in handy. After you pay your deductible, which usually ranges between $500 and $1,000, your policy covers the remaining costs up to your limit (usually your car’s actual cash value, aka “ACV”).
Comprehensive coverage
Comprehensive insurance coverage can help cover the cost of replacing your windshield if it’s damaged due to non-collision events like theft, harsh weather, or vandalism. The coverage amount is based on the car’s ACV and is subject to your deductible, which on average ranges between $100 and $1,000.
Extended glass coverage
Extended glass coverage is an optional add-on that can significantly lower or eliminate your out-of-pocket expenses for windshield repairs or replacement. If you opt for this coverage, you may only pay $50 or even nothing at all, depending on your policy.
Depending on your state, when you drive with Lemonade Car and include both comprehensive and collision coverage on your policy, you may have the option to add extended glass coverage. This coverage differs from comprehensive coverage, as it is specifically designed to provide protection for car glass damage—like a windshield, or a sunroof— unrelated to a collision. The best part? Under this coverage, there is typically little to no deductible.
When does car insurance cover windshield replacement?
Every year, approximately 14 million windshields are replaced in the US. The good news? Windshield replacements are covered by your car insurance if you have comprehensive coverage included in your policy. Comprehensive coverage protects your car from non-collision damages like:
- Falling objects
- Hail damage
- Accidents with animals
- Vandalism
- Other kinds of storm damage
If your windshield damage is related to a car accident and you’re at fault, collision coverage may help instead.
Imagine you’re driving along when a loose rock from a passing truck’s tire suddenly cracks your windshield. If you added comprehensive coverage to your auto insurance policy, you’d file a claim and pay your deductible (say $250). The total windshield replacement cost comes to $400, so if your claim is approved your insurance company would pay the remaining $150.
When is windshield replacement not covered by car insurance?
Although comprehensive coverage offers broad protection, it does have its limits. For instance, if you’ve been driving with a cracked windshield for months and it eventually shatters, your claim could be denied due to the delay in addressing the issue. Staying on top of routine car maintenance is the best way to keep your coverage working effectively.
Additionally, if you only have liability coverage—the basic requirement in most states—it won’t cover damage to your own vehicle, including windshield replacement. Liability insurance is designed to pay for damages you cause to others, such as another driver’s repair costs if you’re at fault in an accident, but it doesn’t extend to your own car.
Picture this: The neighborhood kids are playing baseball and one of them accidentally throws a ball that shatters your windshield. You only have liability car insurance, so you’d be responsible for paying all repair or replacement costs out of pocket.
How much does windshield replacement typically cost?
The cost of replacing your car’s windshield can vary significantly based on your car’s make, model, and additional features. According to Glass.com, the average cost of windshield replacement in 2025 is around $300 when customers pay out of pocket. However, this price can range from approximately $200 for simpler models to over $1,500 for luxury vehicles or those with advanced features—like rain or condensation sensors.
If your car is equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), for example, such as lane departure warnings or adaptive cruise control, you might also need a recalibration for the sensors and cameras mounted on the windshield. This can add $150-$500 or more to the total cost, depending on whether your vehicle requires a static, dynamic, or dual calibration process.
Specialized features like rain-sensing wipers, heated windshields, or other integrated technologies can further increase replacement costs. Luxury vehicles with unique parts or systems may also have replacement prices that go well beyond the standard range.
What should I do if I need to replace my windshield?
If you find yourself with a damaged windshield that needs replacement, follow these steps to get you back on the road in no time:
- Document the damage: Take photos of the cracked or broken windshield to include a detailed record before making any repairs.
- Protect your car: Cover the broken window with a secure material (like a garbage bag or cardboard) to protect your car from further damage. If you can, try parking your car somewhere secure, like a private garage.
- File a police report: Contact your local police department if your windshield was damaged due to a collision, theft, or vandalism. Be sure to get the police report number, as you’ll likely need this to file your claim. However, if your windshield needs repair due to other events, like a tree branch falling on your car, you can usually skip this step.
- File a claim: Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claim process.
At Lemonade, we designed our digital claims process to be as quick and easy as possible. Just submit your claim through the app with the help of our chatbot, AI Jim. If you have extended glass coverage, and only need to file a claim for the broken glass, make sure to select “Glass damage only” during the claims process.
Once you answer a few more questions, tap the ‘Send details to Safelite’ button at the bottom of the screen, we’ll pass your details to our trusty auto-glass repair partner, Safelite.
From there, Safelite will coordinate with you directly to assess your car’s damage and arrange repairs.
Before we go…
With Lemonade’s comprehensive or extended glass coverage, you can ensure safety compliance while avoiding unnecessary expenses—giving you peace of mind on the road.
Ready to get started? Click below to get your quote today.
FAQs
Can I repair a small chip in my windshield instead of replacing it?
Yes, small chips or cracks that are less than six inches can often be repaired instead of replacing the entire windshield. Many insurance companies even cover windshield repair without a deductible if you have full glass coverage. Act quickly to prevent the crack from spreading.
Are rain-sensing wipers affected by windshield replacement?
If your car has rain-sensing wipers, specific sensors are mounted on the windshield, so replacement must be done carefully. Make sure the repair shop uses compatible glass and recalibrates the sensors during installation.
Can I drive with a cracked windshield until I can afford repairs?
It’s not recommended to drive with a cracked windshield, especially depending on the location of the crack and the severity. Cracks can grow over time, weaken the structural integrity of your car’s windshield, potentially violate local vehicle safety laws, and even lead to a denied claim if the crack leads to your windshield shattering.
How long does windshield replacement take to complete?
Windshield replacement is pretty quick, usually taking one to two hours. But, calibration for ADAS systems can extend the process. Make sure to follow the shop’s instructions for curing time (AKA, the time it takes for the new windshield to dry) before driving.
Does your insurance go up if a rock hits your windshield?
Typically, your insurance doesn’t go up if a rock hits your windshield, especially if you file a claim under comprehensive coverage. Most insurers view this as an unavoidable accident, not something you caused. However, it’s a good idea to check with your provider, as policies can differ.
Is it worth it to use insurance for a cracked windshield?
Using insurance for a cracked windshield can be a good idea if the repair or replacement costs more than your deductible and your policy covers glass damage. Make sure to check with your insurer to get the details on your coverage.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
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