How to Get Your Windshield Replaced with GEICO Auto Insurance

If you have a cracked or damaged windshield, getting it repaired or replaced quickly is important for your safety. Fortunately, if you have GEICO auto insurance with comprehensive coverage, windshield repair or replacement is covered.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about using your GEICO policy for windshield replacement. We’ll cover:

• Why windshield damage should be addressed ASAP
• Checking if your GEICO policy covers windshield replacement
• Starting the windshield replacement process
• Using GEICO’s convenient repair program
• Finding an auto glass shop on your own
• What to expect during windshield replacement
• Safely driving with windshield damage
• Preventing cracks and chips in the first place

With the right information, you can get your windshield repaired or replaced smoothly using your GEICO insurance.

Why Fix Windshield Damage Right Away?

It’s common to put off minor windshield chips and cracks. But even minor damage can quickly turn into a major safety issue if left untreated. Here are important reasons to address windshield damage immediately:

• Cracks worsen over time. Exposure to bumps and vibrations causes small chips and cracks to spread across the windshield. Getting it repaired prevents extensive damage.

• Vision obstructions are dangerous. Cracks directly in the driver’s line of sight can severely obstruct visibility and lead to accidents.

• Weakened windshields can shatter. A damaged windshield is more susceptible to shattering in a collision. Windshield glass is a key safety component designed to stay intact.

• Windshield integrity keeps you inside. The windshield plays a major role in maintaining the structural stability of the vehicle in a crash. You want your windshield to stay in one piece to help prevent ejection.

• Some states mandate repairs. States like Florida require windshield damage to be repaired if it is in the driver’s direct line of sight to keep the roads safe.

Don’t take chances with your safety or break state laws. Get windshield chips and cracks repaired right away before the problem worsens.

Is Windshield Replacement Covered by GEICO?

The good news is that windshield repair and replacement is covered by comprehensive auto insurance with GEICO. Comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your vehicle from non-collision incidents, including:

• Windshield chips and cracks
• Vandalism
• Falling objects
• Fire
• Theft
• Hail damage
• Glass breakage
• Animal collisions

Liability coverage only pays for damage you cause to others. Collision coverage only covers accidents with other vehicles or objects. So comprehensive coverage is required to cover windshield repair or replacement.

To confirm you have comprehensive coverage:

• Log into your GEICO account
• Go to your auto policy
• Check the policy details for comprehensive coverage
• Review your deductible amount

Windshield damage claims should be fully covered minus your comprehensive deductible. GEICO also waives your deductible when your windshield can be repaired rather than replaced.

Starting the Windshield Replacement Process with GEICO

Once you notice windshield damage, starting the replacement process only takes a few minutes:

Step 1) Report the damage by filing a claim online or calling GEICO at 1-800-861-8380. Describe the damage and note if it is impairing your vision.

Step 2) Select a repair shop. Use GEICO’s partnership with Safelite AutoGlass for a $0 deductible and mobile service. Or find a shop on your own.

Step 3) Schedule an appointment to have your windshield replaced. Safelite provides convenient mobile service. If using your own shop, drop your car off at the scheduled time.

Step 4) Pay your deductible. GEICO will take care of the rest of the bill directly with the repair shop. You just pay your comprehensive deductible.

GEICO also offers 24/7 emergency roadside assistance if windshield damage makes driving dangerous. Call 1-800-841-3000 for help any time of day or night.

Using GEICO’s Windshield Repair Program

For fast, convenient windshield replacement, GEICO partners with Safelite AutoGlass to handle repairs and replacements. Benefits of using Safelite include:

• Mobile repair/replacement: Technicians will come to your home or workplace to repair or replace your windshield. No need to go to a shop!

• $0 deductible: GEICO waives your comprehensive deductible when using Safelite for windshield repairs.

• Quality OEM glass: Parts come directly from your vehicle’s original manufacturer to ensure a perfect fit.

• 60-minute repair: Quick resin repairs for chips take about an hour or less.

• Experienced technicians: Safelite techs are rigorously trained to provide top-quality work.

• Lifetime warranty: Safelite backs all windshield replacements with a warranty against defects for as long as you own the car.

• Genuine accessories: Any antenna, sensors, or other accessories are transferred to the new windshield.

To request Safelite mobile service, report your claim to GEICO then select Safelite when prompted to choose a repair shop.

Finding Your Own Auto Glass Shop

While the Safelite partnership provides convenience and perks, you can take your car to any auto glass repair shop qualified to work with your vehicle make and model.

To find a reputable glass shop on your own:

• Check ratings/reviews on Google, Yelp, etc. Look for 4+ stars.

• Ask the shop about technician experience, training, and certifications.

• Verify that OEM glass from your vehicle manufacturer will be used.

• Ask if they warranty their replacement workmanship.

• Get an estimate upfront so you know your out-of-pocket costs.

• Confirm they will bill GEICO directly so you only pay the deductible.

Quality shops proudly stand behind their work, while shady ones may cut corners. Do your research to find a shop that instills confidence.

What to Expect During Windshield Replacement

Replacing a windshield takes 30-90 minutes depending on the vehicle. The technician will:

• Evaluate the glass damage and determine if replacement is required or if repair is possible.

• Have you sign a repair authorization and bill GEICO directly for the work minus your deductible.

• Remove your damaged windshield by cutting through the adhesive using piano wire.

• Prepare the windshield frame for the new glass by cleaning, repairing rust, and applying primer.

• Carefully set the new OEM windshield into the frame and press it into the adhesive. Extra adhesive may be applied.

• Attach any sensors for features like rain detectors, lane departure warning, etc.

• Attach the rearview mirror using adhesive pads or buttons.

• Clean up all glass shards or debris when done.

• Provide instructions on allowing the adhesive to fully cure before driving.

When performed by a professional, windshield replacement is a simple, fast service.

Driving Safely with Damaged Windshields

Ideally your windshield gets repaired or replaced before the damage spreads. But if you must drive with existing cracks or chips:

• Avoid harsh bumps or vibrations like potholes or railroad tracks which could worsen cracks.

• Open side or rear windows slightly to reduce pressure on the windshield.

• Turn your face away from oncoming debris that could hit the damaged area.

• Wear protective eyewear like sunglasses or goggles to shield your eyes.

• Adjust the sun visor to block sun glare on cracks or dulled areas.

• Limit high-speed driving which amplifies windshield vibration.

• Tape up long cracks temporarily to keep them from spreading. Do not apply glass repair filler which could make the windshield unrepairable.

Drive cautiously and defensively until you can get your windshield repaired by a pro. Never operate a vehicle with damage severe enough to obstruct the driver’s vision.

Preventing Windshield Chips and Cracks

The easiest solution is to avoid windshield damage in the first place. Here are some tips:

• Have your windshield professionally cleaned at least twice per year to remove debris and dirt.

• Fill small stone chips immediately before they can crack. Use clear nail polish or dab a bit of super glue in the nick.

• Avoid slamming your doors which can vibrate the glass.

• Clean wiper blades regularly so they don’t spread debris.

• Don’t let frost buildup go untreated which can allow cracks once melted.

• Park in covered areas or use a sunshade to protect your car from hail storms.

• Stay several car lengths back from trucks or construction vehicles that could kick up rocks.

• Slow down if you’re following a vehicle throwing gravel or snow rearward.

• Fill any rust damage around the windshield frame that allows water intrusion.

With attentive care and frequent inspections, you can minimize odds of windshield damage. But even if you do get hit with flying road debris, GEICO comprehensive insurance has you covered for quick repairs.

Get Your Windshield Repaired or Replaced Worry-Free

Don’t take chances driving with damaged or obstructed windshield glass. With GEICO auto insurance, you can get it fixed right away using your comprehensive coverage. Follow the simple claim filing process, then utilize GEICO’s partnership with Safelite AutoGlass for fast, convenient mobile service. Or find a highly-rated shop to complete the windshield replacement work.

Either way, GEICO handles the billing, so you just pay your deductible out of pocket. Before you know it, your windshield will be restored, your visibility will be crystal clear, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing an important safety feature is intact. So contact GEICO today to start the windshield replacement process and get back on the road safely.