Windscreen Cover Explained
As cars become more sophisticated, windscreen replacement or repair costs are increasing.
It may only seem small, but a chip to your windscreen from a rogue stone can quickly turn into a big problem if it’s left too long. Something as simple as a change in weather can cause a chip to crack.
The cost of replacing a windscreen depends on the type of van/car you have, and whether you have any extras like cameras or sensors. If you do, these need to be calibrated after the replacement. You may also have windows with built-in radio antenna, heating technology or sensors that make lights or wipers come on automatically. These are all things that can bump up the cost of a replacement windscreen.
Fixing windscreen chips and cracks
A chip repair from one of our partners, National Windscreens, Autoglass, or Auto Windscreens, can take under 30 minutes. Repairing any chips is important, if the chip is within your line of vision, any damage larger than 10mm will mean you’ll be risking a MOT failure. Likewise, if the damage is outside of your vision and the damage is any larger than 40mm you might meet the same fate. By repairing your windscreen rather than having it replaced, you’ll also be causing fewer CO2 Emissions. Footnote [1]
Windscreen cover
The cover you have on your windscreen depends on what level of insurance you choose. It is usually included in comprehensive cover, but you’d have to check with your insurer. Footnote [2]
Our comprehensive cover includes your windscreens, windows, and sunroof Footnote [3] if you have one. Excess does apply for repair and replacement so check your policy if you’re unsure.
Our third-party fire and theft cover only covers glass that’s been damaged by fire or by theft, as the name suggests. Any other situation, like a stone flying up at your windscreen, would require you to organise and pay for a glass repair or replacement yourself.
Maintenance tips for your windscreen
There are a few things you can be doing to avoid issues with your windscreen –
- Don’t pour boiling water over glass when it’s frozen over, this can crack your screen.
- Make sure your washer fluid and anti-freeze is topped up.
- Replace your windscreen wipers when they start to show signs of wear and tear.
- Check your windscreen over every so often to check for chips to avoid them turning into cracks.
- Arrange for any new chips to be repaired as soon as possible as this may avoid the need to replace the whole windscreen.
How will a windscreen claim affect my car insurance?
Most insurers won’t increase your premium if you’ve claimed on your windscreen, however there’s the chance they may. If you’ve made a claim for a windscreen repair, or had it replaced, you should let your new insurer know.
However, most insurers won't affect your No Claim Discount if you make a windscreen claim.
How to make a windscreen claim
If you already have car insurance with Aviva, windscreen replacement is subject to a £115 excess, and chip repairs £10 excess Footnote [4].
To arrange getting your windscreen fixed please call us on 0345 030 6925.
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