Windshield repair in Canada typically costs $50 to $150 for a minor chip, while a full replacement can run $300 to $1,000 or more depending on your vehicle.

Costs vary depending on the type of windshield damage, vehicle, and whether you pay out-of-pocket, or make an insurance claim. Not every auto insurance policy covers windshield damage in the same way.

A small chip in your windshield might seem like a minor annoyance, but ignoring it could lead to a much bigger and more expensive problem. Temperature changes, road vibrations, and everyday driving can cause a small crack to spread, potentially turning a simple repair into a costly windshield replacement.

Here’s what Canadian drivers need to know about windshield repair costs, insurance coverage, and when it’s time to replace your glass. 

What’s the difference between chip repair, crack repair, and windshield replacement?

The type, size, and location of windshield damage can help determine whether you require a repair or replacement. 

How much does windshield repair cost in Canada?

A simple rock chip may cost around $50 to $150 to repair if you're paying out of pocket. A full windshield replacement can range from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000, particularly for luxury brands or vehicles with advanced safety technology.

The cost of windshield repair varies depending on several factors, including type of damage and make and model of your vehicle. Some factors that can affect repair costs include: 

• Size and location of damage: Larger cracks or damage near edge of a windshield can be more difficult to repair.
• Vehicle make and model: Replacement glass for some vehicles costs more than others.
• ADAS: Windshields of many newer vehicles are connected with cameras and sensors that may require recalibration after replacement.
• OEM vs. aftermarket glass: Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) glass may cost more than aftermarket options.
• Insurance coverage: Depending on your policy, your insurer may cover some or all of your windshield repair or replacement costs. 

Does car insurance cover windshield repair?

Christy Barsalou, president and CEO of QuickFacts, says windshield damage is generally covered under comprehensive coverage, including damage caused by things such as road debris, vandalism, or an impact with a wild animal.

She notes that specified perils coverage is different and may not provide similar protection for windshield damage.  

Barsalou recommends ensuring you have comprehensive coverage for any windshield repair costs.

Rob de Pruis, national director of consumer and industry relations at the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), says that if you have purchased optional own vehicle comprehensive or collision coverage, damage caused by an insured peril can be covered, subject to your deductible.

If you don't have this type of coverage, you're generally responsible for paying for repairs to your car's windshield.

Some insurers may have endorsements that limit glass coverage. For example, some policies may limit coverage to specific perils and exclude damage caused by road debris, such as rock chips.

“Optional specialty glass coverage is available that can be added onto a vehicle, which can reduce the deductible amount significantly and cover damage like rock chips,” says de Pruis.

This type of specialty glass coverage is separate from a standard auto insurance policy.

Read more: Does your car insurance policy include collision and comprehensive coverages? 

How does the windshield insurance claim process work?

If you notice a chip or crack in your windshield, contact your insurer promptly to understand what you are covered for and your repair options.

Your insurer may connect you with an approved or preferred repair provider. Depending on your circumstances, the repair shop may also be able to bill your insurer directly.

“Generally what happens is you go into a windshield repair facility—depending on your area, it might be a provider like Apple Auto Glass or Speedy, or it could even be your car dealership,” explains Barsalou. “You take your policy card in, and they submit the claim to make sure you have coverage. They bill your insurance company for the rest and then charge you the deductible you have for that coverage.”

For a simple rock chip, however, the repair may cost less than your insurance deductible. In that case, it may make more sense to pay for required repairs yourself instead of filing a claim.

If your windshield is damaged as part of a larger incident, such as a collision or extensive hail damage, replacement would generally be handled with your broader vehicle insurance claim.

Drivers can use their service provider of choice during a claim, de Pruis notes, although many insurance companies have preferred provider lists.

Learn more: How to file a car insurance claim after a collision 

Should I repair or replace my windshield?

Whenever possible, repairing a windshield is preferable because it's usually faster and less expensive than replacement. Repairing a small chip early can also help prevent it from spreading and becoming more difficult and expensive to fix.

A windshield may need to be replaced if:

• Glass crack is too large to repair
• Crack extends to edge of windshield
• Damage is in driver's line of sight
• Windshield's structural integrity is compromised
• Glass cannot be safely repaired

A professional auto glass technician can assess damage and determine whether repair or replacement is appropriate.

Your decision can also affect what you pay out of pocket. According to Barsalou, a repair may be covered by your comprehensive insurance without triggering your insurance deductible, while a full replacement may be subject to it.

Related: Specified perils vs. comprehensive car insurance: what’s the difference? 

Will repairing a windshield increase my insurance premiums?

Making an auto insurance claim can affect your future premiums, depending on your policy and claims history. However, impact can vary depending on the type of claim and your insurer.

Claims made through a standalone specialty glass policy generally won't affect your main auto insurance premiums, says de Pruis. However, a claim could affect future costs of separate glass coverage.

He also cautions that making numerous claims could affect availability of coverage in future.  

If you're considering making a claim for a relatively inexpensive repair, check your insurance deductible and ask your insurer how the claim could affect your policy before proceeding.

Related: How your claims history affects your car insurance premium 

Where can I get my windshield repaired in Canada?

Canadian drivers have several options for windshield repairs and replacements, including:

• Dedicated auto glass repair shops
• National auto glass chains
• Dealership service departments
• Mobile windshield repair services

Your insurer may have a list of approved or preferred providers you can use. You can also ask a repair shop whether it works directly with your insurance company and if it can complete any required ADAS recalibration. 

Frequently asked questions

1. How much does it cost to fix a small windshield chip? 

   A small windshield chip typically costs around $50 to $150 to repair if you pay out of pocket. Actual cost depends on damage, vehicle, and repair provider. Depending on your insurance policy, windshield repairs may be included.

2. Is it cheaper to repair or replace a windshield? 

   Repairing a windshield is usually much cheaper than replacing it. Repairing small chips early can also help prevent them from spreading and requiring a full replacement in future.

3. Does comprehensive insurance cover windshield damage? 

   Comprehensive coverage can cover windshield damage caused by an insured peril, subject to your policy's terms and deductible. Some policies may also provide coverage under Specified Perils or All Perils coverage.

4. Can I drive with a cracked windshield? 

   A small crack may not immediately make your vehicle unsafe, but cracks can spread quickly and may affect your windshield's ability to protect you or provide a clear view of the road. Best to have any glass damage assessed by a professional as soon as possible.

5. Does windshield replacement include ADAS calibration? 

   Not necessarily. If your vehicle has cameras or sensors connected to the windshield, recalibration may be required after replacement. Ask whether this service is included in the replacement quote and whether your insurance covers it.

6. Should I make an insurance claim for windshield repair? 

   It depends on the cost of the repair, your deductible, and how a claim could affect your policy. If a repair costs less than your deductible, paying out of pocket could prevent a future increase in premiums. Check with your insurer before deciding.

7. What should you do if your windshield is damaged? 

   Don't ignore a small chip or crack to your car glass. Windshield damage can spread because of temperature changes, road vibrations, and everyday driving, potentially turning a relatively simple repair into a costly replacement.

Taking a few minutes to understand your coverage before you need it can help you avoid unexpected windshield repair costs and makes any future claims process easier.

Read next: Will an at-fault collision always increase my car insurance premiums?