How State Farm Auto Insurance Handles Windshield Replacement

Cracks and chips in your windshield are unfortunately a common occurrence for drivers. If damage is severe enough, you’ll need a full windshield replacement which can be a costly repair. Fortunately, many auto insurance policies, including State Farm, provide coverage for windshield replacement.

This article will outline everything you need to know about getting your windshield replaced through your State Farm car insurance policy. We’ll cover:

• Windshield Damage Covered by State Farm
• The Windshield Replacement Process
• Using State Farm’s Preferred Vendors
• What’s Covered in Windshield Coverage
• Typical Replacement Costs
• How the Deductible is Applied
• Additional Windshield Coverage Options
• Out-of-Pocket Cost Savings Tips

Windshield Damage Covered by State Farm

State Farm auto policies include standard glass coverage that pays for windshield repair or replacement depending on the severity of damage.

Some examples of windshield damage that would warrant a full replacement include:

• Cracks longer than 6 inches
• Cracks spreading across the driver’s field of vision
• Three or more cracks on the windshield
• Chips or cracks that cannot be effectively repaired

Your State Farm agent can help determine whether your particular windshield damage should be repaired or replaced when you file a claim.

The Windshield Replacement Process

Here are the steps to get your windshield replaced through State Farm insurance:

1. File a Claim

Get the process started by filing a claim via State Farm’s website, mobile app, contacting your agent, or calling 1-800-SFCLAIM.

2. Schedule an Appointment

State Farm will dispatch one of their preferred local glass vendors to handle your replacement. You can schedule a convenient time and location.

3. Windshield Replacement

The repair shop will source, deliver, and install your new OEM windshield. The work typically takes 1-2 hours.

4. Limited Paperwork

You will just need to approve the work when completed. The shop handles direct billing through State Farm.

5. Pay Any Applicable Deductible

If you owe a deductible based on your policy, you’ll need to pay that portion to the glass shop.

Filing a claim and coordinating your windshield replacement is quick and simple with State Farm’s streamlined process.

Using State Farm’s Preferred Vendors

State Farm has an extensive network of qualified glass repair and replacement shops approved to handle claims. Benefits of using a State Farm preferred vendor include:

• Direct payment from State Farm to the vendor – you just pay any deductible portion
• Guaranteed work performed to State Farm’s quality standards
• Efficient claims process and paperwork
• OEM or OEM-equivalent parts used on your car
• Mobile services available for your convenience

You also have the freedom to use any licensed glass shop of your choosing. However, you may need to pay out of pocket and submit receipts to State Farm for reimbursement.

What’s Covered in Windshield Coverage

A standard State Farm auto policy includes reasonable and customary charges for a covered windshield replacement, including:

• The glass itself
• Labor for removal and installation
• Necessary urethane and supplies

The coverage applies to windshield glass only. It does not extend to repairs or replacement of:

• Door, back, or side window glass
• Sunroofs, moonroofs, T-tops
• Mirror glass

Damage to those areas would need to be claimed under your comprehensive or collision coverage and are subject to the associated deductible amount.

Typical Replacement Costs

Windshield replacement costs can range greatly depending on your vehicle make and model. Some typical estimated costs with State Farm insurance are:

• Toyota Camry: $210 – $230
• Ford F-150: $270 – $310
• Honda Civic: $240 – $280
• Nissan Altima: $260 – $300

Keep in mind that some windshields can run upwards of $1,000 or more on high-end cars. Factory options like wipers, sensors, and heating elements can also increase the price.

How the Deductible is Applied

With standard glass coverage, State Farm requires you to pay your comprehensive deductible amount towards a windshield replacement.

Comp deductibles are typically $200 – $500. So with a $500 deductible, you would owe that amount as an out-of-pocket cost on your windshield claim.

There is no deductible for windshield repairs, only replacements.

Additional Windshield Coverage Options

State Farm does offer some options to reduce your windshield replacement deductible:

• Glass Deductible Waiver – Waives your comprehensive deductible for glass repairs. Available in some states.

• No Deductible Glass Coverage – Provides $0 deductible for windshield and glass damage. Carries a premium surcharge.

Discuss adding these endorsements with your State Farm agent to save on windshield out-of-pocket costs.

Out-of-Pocket Cost Savings Tips

Besides policy add-ons, here are some other ways to minimize expenses on a windshield replacement:

• Up your comp deductible – Increasing your comprehensive deductible from $200 to $500 can save on premiums. Just factor the higher deductible cost into your budget.

• Use your credit card’s insurance perks – Many cards provide rental car or collision damage coverage that may help cover your deductible amount.

• Ask about discounts – Some glass shops offer discounts for paying your deductible upfront or becoming a cash customer.

• Seek coupons – Check repair shop websites for any coupons or seasonal discounts on windshield replacement services.

With State Farm’s expansive vendor network and streamlined claims process, getting your windshield replaced is hassle-free. Just remember that your comprehensive deductible does apply. Discuss options for reducing that out-of-pocket cost with your State Farm agent.