Car windscreen replacement and repair

Content Guide

Average costs

Which service

Common problems

Top warning signs

Find a mobile specialist

What impacts the cost?

Chips or cracks in your car’s windscreen can happen easily, often because of small bits of debris that hit when driving at speed. Minor damage may only need a windscreen repair. However, damage can quickly spread, and if you notice a chip or crack wider than 10mm, your car windscreen must be replaced.

Luckily, a car windscreen replacement is a simple service that includes just a few steps and will probably take around 2 hours to complete, including drying time.

• A protective material is placed around your windscreen to protect the body of your car.

• The mechanic will cut the seals and remove the old windscreen from your car.

• A primer agent will be applied to the framework and left to dry.

• Bonding glue is then applied, and the new windscreen is fitted into place.

• The glue is left to dry for at least an hour before you can drive away safely.

A windscreen replacement is a permanent repair that fully restores the area to perfect condition.

Windscreen replacement average costs

The amount it costs to replace a car windscreen depends on the type of car you have, and therefore the type and price of the glass to be fitted. The average cost of a windscreen replacement booked on FixMyCar is £343.83.

The cost table below helps give you an idea of average windscreen replacement costs for a range of popular car makes.

Common problems requiring a windscreen repair or replacement

The most common problems affecting your windscreen are chips and cracks in the glass. The size and the position of the damage will determine whether you need a repair or a replacement.

If you notice a minor chip in your windscreen that doesn’t fall within the driver’s line of sight, you can book in for a repair. If, on the other hand, you have a large crack in your windscreen, you will need to book in for a replacement.

Other issues that require repair include loose windscreen seals. If you notice water leaking into your car or hear a whistling noise while you drive, you will usually require a repair to seal or refit the glass properly.

Replacing a cracked windscreen

Replacing e a cracked windscreen

Top warning signs you need a windscreen replacement

For a chipped windscreen to be repaired, the damage must meet specific characteristics. If not, the entire windscreen will need to be replaced to deal with the damage effectively. If the damage fits the description of any of the points below, a replacement is necessary:

• Chips or cracks larger than 10mm or the size of a £2 coin

• Damage that falls in the area of the driver’s line of sight

• Chips or cracks closer than 3cm from the edge of the windscreen

When do I need to repair my windscreen?

Chips and cracks to your windscreen can spread easily. They also have the potential to obstruct the driver’s view of the road. For both of these reasons, it’s urgent to deal with windscreen damage as soon as it occurs to remain road safe.

Driving with a chipped or cracked windscreen can also be an offence if it falls within the driver’s line of sight. So, make sure to book in for a fix as soon as you notice damage and before it spreads. Otherwise, you’ll be driving an unsafe vehicle and could be fined.

You should check your windscreen every time you get in the car to ensure there are no new issues. You will not pass your annual MOT if there’s damage to the glass.

What impacts the cost of a windscreen repair or replacement?

There are several factors that can impact the price you pay for work to your car windscreen, including: 

• The size and placement of the damage 

• The type of glass fitted

• The make and model of the car you have 

• The size of your vehicle 

• Whether any other work needs to be done in addition to the windscreen repair

Comparing windscreen replacement and repair costs

The need for a windscreen repair versus a replacement depends on the nature of the damage. Typically, repairs will be much quicker and cheaper than a complete replacement due to the cost of the new glass you’ll need. 

A minor chip repair can cost as little as £40, whereas a windscreen replacement is more likely to cost around £343.83. 

A professional will be able to determine whether you need a windscreen repair or replacement, but it’s always worth getting a few quotes so that you know you’re paying the best price for the work.

Get your car windscreen repaired or replaced at home

If you’d rather, it’s possible to get a trained professional to visit your home to perform your windscreen repair. Minor chips and cracks can be easily repaired by a mobile mechanic who will come to you with their equipment and carry out the work. 

However, for a full windscreen replacement, you may need to visit a garage because the glass used needs to match the original specification. Not only that, but more equipment, space, and labour time are necessary to carry out the job.