Windshield Repair or Replacement — How to Know What You Need

WHEN A WINDSHIELD CAN BE REPAIRED

  • The damage is smaller than a quarter

  • The chip is not directly in the driver’s line of sight

  • The crack has not spread

  • The damage is not on the edge of the glass

Repairs are quick, affordable, and help prevent cracks from spreading.

 In many cases, insurance fully covers windshield chip repair.

WHEN A WINDSHIELD MUST BE REPLACED

  • The crack is longer than a few inches

  • The damage is in the driver’s direct view

  • The glass is structurally compromised

  • The damage reaches the edge of the windshield

  • The vehicle has advanced safety systems that require proper installation

Replacement restores safety, visibility, and vehicle structural integrity.

ADAS SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

Many newer vehicles use cameras and sensors mounted to the windshield for features like:

  • Lane departure warning

  • Forward collision alerts

  • Automatic emergency braking

If the windshield is replaced, ADAS recalibration may be required to ensure these systems function correctly.

We follow manufacturer-recommended procedures when recalibration is needed.

HOW WE HELP YOU DECIDE
Honest Guidance, No Pressure

Every windshield is different.

Our technicians will:

1. Inspect the damage

2. Explain whether repair is safe

3. Recommend replacement only when necessary

4. Help with insurance questions

If a repair is possible, we’ll tell you. If replacement is required, we’ll explain why.

Repair vs Replacement at a Glance

Windshield Repair

Fast service

Lower cost

Often insurance-covered

Prevents spreading

Windshield Replacement

Required for severe damage

Restores structural safety

Necessary for ADAS vehicles

May involve recalibration

Locations:

Clarity Auto Glass 

Gladstone
7305 N Oak Trafficway
Gladstone, MO 64118                      816-569-3040

Clarity Auto Glass                        Kansas City  
3500 Manchester Trafficway 
​Kansas City, MO 64129                    816-916-2307

Clarity Auto Glass                        Olathe KS                                          11505 S Strang Line Rd. Suite A  Olathe, KS 6606                               913-267-9220               

 

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