So, you’re cruising along, enjoying your drive, when suddenly – a tiny rock smacks into your windscreen. Annoying? Definitely. But replacing it might be more complicated than you think.
Modern windscreens are more than just glass; they’re packed with advanced technology that can significantly impact the cost of a replacement. From built-in cameras to heating elements, your windscreen might be doing more than you realise. Let’s break down the key features that can affect the price when it’s time for a windscreen replacement.
Windscreen Features That Can Drive Up the Cost
Not all windscreens are created equal. The more tech involved, the pricier the replacement can be. Here’s why:
1. ADAS Cameras (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
Many modern cars have cameras mounted to the windscreen as part of their ADAS setup. These systems support features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking. If your car has ADAS, replacing the windscreen isn’t just about fitting new glass—it requires camera recalibration, adding to the overall cost.
“Need an accurate estimate? Get a Windscreen Replacement Quote today and make sure your high-tech glass is replaced with precision.”
2. LiDAR & Radar Sensors
Some high-end vehicles use LiDAR or radar sensors embedded in the windscreen to assist with autonomous driving or advanced safety features. These sensors need precise alignment, which means extra labour and specialist equipment, making the replacement more expensive than a standard windscreen.
3. Heated Windscreens
Ever noticed those tiny, almost invisible lines running through your windscreen? That’s the heated glass feature, which helps defrost and de-mist your windscreen quickly in winter. These require special glass with built-in heating elements, increasing the cost compared to a basic windscreen replacement.
4. Rain & Light Sensors
If your car has automatic wipers or headlights that turn on in low light, it likely has sensors attached to the windscreen. These need careful reinstallation and recalibration during replacement, adding to the complexity and cost.
5. Acoustic & Solar Glass
Luxury vehicles often feature acoustic glass to reduce road noise or solar-coated glass to block UV rays and keep the cabin cooler. These specialised windscreens are pricier than standard ones due to their advanced materials and additional benefits.
How These Features Affect Replacement Costs
A simple windscreen replacement used to be just that – remove the old glass, fit the new one, and you’re good to go. But with modern technology, the process has become more intricate:
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Calibration Costs: If your windscreen has ADAS, LiDAR, or rain sensors, expect to pay extra for recalibration.
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Specialised Glass: Heated, acoustic, and solar-coated windscreens use different materials, making them more expensive than standard glass.
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Labour & Equipment: Advanced features require specialist tools and skilled technicians, adding to the overall price.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
The good news? Many insurance policies cover windscreen replacements, though an excess may apply. If your car has ADAS or other high-tech features, check if your policy includes recalibration costs to avoid unexpected expenses.
The Bottom Line
A cracked windscreen is more than just an inconvenience, it could be a pricey fix depending on your car’s features. Before replacing it, find out what technology your windscreen includes and get a quote that factors in calibration and specialised materials.
