As strong and sturdy as they are, vehicle windscreens are unfortunately not invincible. They’re made from tough laminated glass and are built to withstand some rough treatment, but there are occasions when severe weather, temperature fluctuations, a bit of loose gravel or some other impacts result in a chipped or cracked windscreen.
Unlike a chip or dent in your car’s bodywork, a damaged windscreen shouldn’t be ignored. For safety’s sake, it’s important to have the damage assessed by a professional as soon as possible.
Your windscreen acts as a protective barrier to the car’s occupants, but not many people realise that it also provides up to 30% of a vehicle’s structural strength. Any damage may compromise its ability to do its job properly – plus it’s also illegal to drive if your view of the road is hampered by the damage.
Can a damaged windscreen be fixed?
In many instances, fixing the damage is simple and straightforward. However, there are situations when a full windscreen replacement is necessary.
Generally, a windscreen can be fixed if:
- The chip is smaller than 2.5cm wide
- The damage doesn’t compromise the vehicle’s roadworthiness
- The chip hasn’t penetrated into the inner layer
- The damage doesn’t impede the driver’s view of the road
Read our blog post about whether to repair or replace a windscreen for more information.
What does a windscreen replacement cost?
The cost of a full windscreen replacement depends on the make, model and age of the vehicle. It also depends on whether there are any technological features required in the new windscreen such as rain sensors, speed zone recognition and lasers.
Prices can range from $300 to $3000 but it’s really only possible to get an accurate quote from a specialist. It is of course, possible to get insurance cover for windscreen repairs and windscreen replacements, so the cost and excess will vary depending on the terms of the individual policy.
Can you get a cheap windscreen replacement?
At Autoscreens, we’re often asked whether it’s possible to get a ‘generic’ windscreen replacement that costs less than one from an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). We can certainly help with that!
An aftermarket car windscreen can cost less. The majority of the glass we fit here at Autoscreens is aftermarket. A more cost effective solution but with the same high standards and specifications you would expect with an OEM windscreen. We always recommend that people do their research thoroughly before making any decision.
Factors impacting the cost of a windscreen replacement
In a nutshell, the following factors will determine who much you can expect to pay for a windscreen replacement:
- Make, model and age of the vehicle (premium vehicles generally command a higher price for new windscreens)
- Technology in the windscreen
- OEM or aftermarket product
- Extent of the damage (if the rubber surrounds are also damaged, they will need to be replaced too)
- Motor insurance policy and premiums
- Choice of repairer (we recommend doing your research to find a reputable mobile service provider that guarantees the products and their workmanship)
A final word …
Replacing a windscreen is a surprisingly quick and straightforward job, often only requiring an hour or so of labour. That means costs are minimised and the best news is that windscreen replacements – like repairs – can be done at your own premises at a time that suits you. We can also come to your work address. No lengthy waits, inconvenient drop offs or unnecessary disruptions to your routine – and that is priceless!
If you’re after reliable, affordable and experienced help with your windscreen replacement, you’re welcome to get in touch with our friendly team at Autoscreens. We’ve been a leading automotive glass replacement company in Perth for over 10 years and we work on all vehicle makes and models. Plus we guarantee our workmanship.
If you’d like to find out the cost of your windscreen replacement or repair, please fill in the contact form or give us a call on 0400 2000 86.
Jason Squire started Autoscreens in 2010. With over 35 years of experience gained in both the UK and Australia, the company is well established as a leading provider of windscreen replacement and autoglass repairs in Perth.
His journey to becoming a certified repairer license holder status with DMIRS (and business repair license MRB3703) began many years ago. He was born and brought up in the UK – the country where his long career in the automotive industry began. In common with many of the world’s best tradespeople it all started with an apprenticeship. For Jason, this was in vehicle bodybuilding and a specialisation in vehicle conversions.
He followed that up with several additional professional qualifications, including a Grade A Vehicle Body Building Certificate from the Road Transport Industry, a GQA level 2 in NVQ Automotive Glazing and a Level 2 qualification in Joining Materials by Welding from the UK Engineer Training Authority.
During his studies, Jason was also a part-time volunteer in the Royals signals with the Reserve Territorial Army. Between 1991 and 1995, Jason completed his Phase One Signallers Course with the Royal Armoured Corps and was awarded a Certificate of Trade Proficiency as a Territorial Army Driver Electrician Class 3. Training exercises took him all over Europe. He also represented the Signals in Rugby.
From there, he joined the armed forces on a full-time basis with the Queens Royal Lancers and continued to impress with his leadership skills and willingness to broaden his skillset, during which he lived in Germany. In 1996, he graduated from the Queens Royal Lancer Leadership Academy where he was named best recruit. His time with the Queens Royal Lancers he qualified as Tank Driver, Crew Medic and Gunner.
In 1999, Jason left the armed forces to join RAC Auto Windscreens. His skillset enabled him to fast-track his career to base supervisor and lead technician working with premiere dealerships in Crewe, Cheshire.
He also continued to volunteer in a number of different areas, including as a first responder with the West Midlands Ambulance Service and a scout leader with the Scout Association.
He relocated to Australia in 2008 with his young family and spent his first two years down under as a head technician for a national windscreen company.
However, with all his experience, extensive qualifications and his abiding passion for the automotive industry, it was inevitable that he would start his own company and make his mark as an industry leader.
He started Autoscreens in 2010 and has grown the business into the leading windscreen repair and replacement company in Perth, servicing both domestic and commercial customers. Autoscreens has a certified Motor Vehicle Repairers Licence MRB3703 issued by the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.