In order to be able to drive safely, the windshield of your car has to be in good condition and free of any cracks. But most people tend to overlook a small chip or hairline crack. The simplest safety concern, a dirty windscreen, can pose a serious safety threat, limiting visibility and compromising the safety of your car. Modern vehicles with driving assist or self-driving capabilities use cameras behind the windshield to assist them, such as the Cadillac Escalade. Dirty windshields can limit the high-tech functions that operate behind them. Getting a crack in it can make it that much more dangerous.
In the event that your car's windshield is cracked, you should get it repaired in order to ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers. Your windshield might not be covered by an extended warranty, but you might be wondering if it is. Making the right decision for your vehicle and yourself depends on knowing how windshield repairs work.
Cracked windshields: What causes them?
Windshield damage can be caused by a variety of things, and each will lead to different kinds of damage. Road debris, such as rocks and gravel, is a common cause of cracked windshields.
Whenever you drive behind other vehicles, you will be exposed to all sorts of debris. Maintain enough distance between your vehicle and any trucks carrying mulch or gravel to protect yourself and your vehicle from this type of debris. You could have your windshield cracked or suffer much more serious damage if something comes loose from a truck in front of you.
Rapid temperature changes can sometimes shatter, break or crack windshields. The most common cause of cracked windshields is that people throw boiling water on them to thaw out ice when their windshields are frosted over. Their mistake is not realizing that this almost guarantees that your windshield will crack. In really hot weather, it can crack if you have the air conditioner running super cold inside the vehicle.
Is it necessary to repair a cracked windshield?
It might be unclear whether you should replace a cracked or damaged windshield. Getting the damage fixed immediately is important, no matter how minor it might be. Police may pull you over if your windshield is cracked, depending on what the laws are in the state you live in. On a bad day, you'll probably be issued a ticket for driving with a cracked windshield. On a good day, you will probably be issued a warning to fix-it. If you do receive a ticket you can get the windshield fixed and bring proof to court so you can get the citation or ticket dismissed.
Does an extended auto warranty cover windshield cracks?
Cracked or damaged windshields are generally not covered by car warranties. Exceptions do exist, however. As an example, the windshield might be covered if the manufacturer did not manufacture it properly and it cracked after it was installed on the vehicle. In that case the Manufacturer might cover it for you. Most extended warranty policies won't cover cracks caused by road debris, which is the most common cause of windshield damage. In general, comprehensive warranties exclude windshields because they are generally considered wear items, much like brake pads, tires, and batteries.
You will however be able to claim accidental damage for a chipped or cracked windshield through your vehicle’s insurance policy and they may cover it. In the event that your windshield is cracked by road debris, your deductible could be applied toward the cost of a replacement. The extent of your vehicle's coverage and limits will vary depending on the type of insurance policy you have.
Protect Your Vehicle With an Extended Warranty Plan
A cracked windshield is still not covered by your warranty, but there are still many advantages to having one. Road debris can severely damage your windshield, so you can't drive your vehicle safely if your extended warranty offers 24/7 roadside assistance. It is imperative you choose a warranty that will protect your vehicle and give you peace of mind when you are driving.
Are you interested in extended warranty coverage?
Choose Total Auto Protect
To help you get started, we're giving you a 30% discount for just requesting a quote for a limited time. Our plans are available online, so you don't have to make a phone call, and you may find they are significantly cheaper than what you're paying right now. Take advantage of your free quote today to avoid having to pay for expensive car repairs in the future.
Some extended warranty companies do not offer transfer in's or out's, but Total Auto Protect is different. By being a direct warranty provider, we are able to offer lower prices than our competitors, which gives us several advantages. Our prices aren't set by another company.
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