Auto Glass Consumer Guide - Get Educated!
The fierce competition among auto glass repair and replacement companies makes it difficult finding someone to consult if you have an auto glass problem. To make things worse, and add more stress, many companies make false claims and promises and use uncertified and poor materials for the auto glass repair or replacement job.
As you also can’t afford to leave your vehicle in the hands of an amateur technician, you need to do your research to find a reputable auto glass company with expert technicians ready to thoroughly examine your vehicle. They then clearly explain every aspect of the auto glass repair or replacement job and do the needful.
So to help you out of this dilemma, you now have this consumer guide to teach you the right questions to ask when you contact an auto glass company. The information compiled here will help you make an informed decision so you get full value for your money at the end of the day.
To Replace or Repair:
Find out if your windshield has to be repaired or replaced as insurance companies claim that 30% of the windshield can be repaired. So if lucky, your insurance will waive your deductible amount if you opt to repair and not replace.
You can also use a dollar bill to decide if an auto glass recovery or repair is required. Just place it on the crack and chip. If it’s fully covered, you can go for repairs where most auto glass companies assure that these cracks won’t spread under a year. If unhappy with the repair results, you can always replace the windshield!
Myths Worth Knowing
1.
All glasses are alike- No. Don’t assume you know everything because you know about one auto glass. The best glass for your car is ‘O-E’ (Original Equipment) glass while LOF, PPG, Carlite and Mopar are some preferred brands. If not, you may end up paying more for cheap quality Chinese or Mexican glass.
2. It’s possible to drive immediately after the installation- This is not true as the adhesive used for installation has to completely dry. Depending on the weather, this takes about 2 to 24 hours. Disregarding it can lead to rainwater leaking inside.
3. Warranties/guarantees are a waste- You definitely need a warranty or guarantee as companies offering it will do a thorough job and give you the required assurance.
4. The windshield is just a window
- It is in no way just a glass curtain for seeing objects while driving. It is very tough and protects you during accidents like preventing ejection, preventing the caving in of the car's roof and letting the air bags inflate in time.
Rip-Offs Are a No-No
- It is pretty much true that those who brag extensively usually deliver less. So if you find an overly vociferous company, avoid it. Make your final decision after collecting feedback from known people and the Better Business Bureau.
- Think again before grabbing the discount coupons you find everywhere as they are just bait to trap customers like you who don’t read its fine print. Remember, the trustworthy companies will always be ready to give everything in writing and stick to each written word. Do get a written quote to help you arrive at yours and your insurance company’s final decision.
- Don’t get fooled by mobile only companies as you can’t trust companies without a proper brick and mortar building. Straightforward auto glass companies having sound experience and technicians are transparent with their commitments. They will readily answer all your problems and even provide their contact details before you ask.
- Don’t believe partial or total deductible waiving as these are absurd promises. If you do, you may end up with poor material and work and just put your life at risk.
Windshield Replacement Process
It’s always better you know the procedure of anything you plan getting done, even window replacement. So here is a list of steps for replacing your car windshield that you can use to ensure the technician does a good job. Do not attempt to do this yourself as it has to be done by a trained and knowledgeable person.
- First ensure the replacement window you choose has no cracks or chips and then pay for it. Protect it well if you plan to carry it in your car. If it’s a secondhand windshield, remove or trim the urethane bead with a razor blade so that it fits your car.
- next carefully remove the unnecessary top moldings and plastic side surround as they just add to the look.
- Carefully cut the urethane part without damaging the glass. The urethane is strong and flexible. Any mistake made will lead to the glass breaking into several pieces. This can hurt you, create a mess and damage the dashboard or metal part.
- Trim the urethane further, remove dirt particles and use a primer to fix rusty areas.
- The next step involves applying primer on the glass band and using an electric caulking gun to attach molding to the glass and for urethane treatment.
- The last step is the windshield glass placement, which has to be done after aligning it properly from all sides and then securing in position.
How to Find a Reliable Auto Glass Repair Company
Now you know about the myths, if you need to repair or replace using the auto glass windshield replacement process, you next need to learn how to find a reliable auto glass repair company.
It’s important you do this and prepare yourself in advance so you know whom to approach in an emergency, and get a pocket friendly deal. It’s also important you collect quotes from various firms so you can choose the best deal available. These tips will help you make your choice.
Material quality is very important as the glass has to keep you safe from outside elements like dust, rain and heat. As the glass grade is important, ask the company if they use the same glass grade as your car needs. Make sure the auto glass is OEM certified and meant for your vehicle, and that they use the necessary tools and equipment to repair your auto glass.
Your chosen firm should be responsive with a staff harboring great communication skills who immediately answer your queries. They also have to be available 24/7 to assist you in your needs and be easily and conveniently reached. All these signs indicate the company takes good care of their customers.
As auto glass damages are covered by the insurance company, your claim process is made quick and easy if the auto glass Repair Company has a good rapport with them. So contact the insurance company to enquire if they have connections with your chosen auto repair service provider.
It’s important you consider the reputation of the provider as it’s built and based on years of hard work. Meeting the company’s customer representatives helps you assess their work. The selection process is easier for you if you explore all available options.
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