Does Car Insurance Cover Windshield Replacement?
Short answer
Yes, if you carry comprehensive coverage. This question is narrower than the general glass and windshield coverage page: it's specifically about windshield replacement, which is the most common glass claim. In Florida, Kentucky, and South Carolina, state statute requires insurers to replace windshield glass with zero deductible. In other states, your comprehensive deductible applies ($100 to $500 typical). Rock-chip repair is almost always deductible-waived nationwide.
When the deductible applies vs doesn't
- No deductible, by state statute: Florida (Fla. Stat. §627.7288), Kentucky (KRS 304.20-030), South Carolina (SC Code 38-77-280). Comprehensive-insured windshield replacement is deductible-free.
- No deductible via policy endorsement: most carriers in other states sell a full-glass endorsement for $15 to $50 per 6-month term that waives your comprehensive deductible on glass claims only.
- Deductible applies: all other states, no endorsement. Standard comprehensive deductible $100 to $500 against the replacement cost ($400 to $1,500 for a typical sedan; $1,200 to $3,000 for an ADAS-equipped vehicle including recalibration).
- Deductible waived for repair (not replacement): virtually every carrier in every state waives the deductible on rock-chip repair because repair is cheaper for the carrier than later replacement.
ADAS-equipped windshields
If your vehicle has lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, Tesla Autopilot camera, or Subaru EyeSight, the replacement must include recalibration of those sensors. Recalibration adds $150 to $600 to the claim. Comprehensive pays this on a covered glass loss. Insist on OEM glass for ADAS-equipped vehicles; aftermarket glass may meet optical spec but fail recalibration.
Will my rate go up?
Single comprehensive windshield claims rarely surcharge, because glass damage is not-at-fault. Multiple comp claims within 3 years can trigger non-renewal in rare cases.
The process
- Report the damage via your carrier's app or claim hotline. Many carriers partner with Safelite, Jiffy Auto Glass, or similar networks for same-day replacement.
- If ADAS-equipped, verify the shop will perform the recalibration (or arrange for the dealer to do it after glass).
- If you have full-glass or live in FL/KY/SC, confirm no deductible before signing.
- Keep the replacement invoice; carrier may require it even on in-network claims.
Sources and methodology
ISO Personal Auto Policy comprehensive coverage; Fla. Stat. §627.7288; KRS 304.20-030; SC Code 38-77-280; Insurance Information Institute glass-coverage guidance. Last reviewed .