How Much Does a Windscreen Replacement Cost?

Replacing a car windscreen can be an expensive process, but the cost can vary depending on a number of factors. The size and type of windscreen, the make and model of the car, and the type of damage all play a role in determining the final price. So if you're ever in need of a windscreen replacement, it's important to be aware of these factors so you can budget accordingly.

#1 The type of windscreen

Generally speaking, car windscreen has three main types: laminated or safety glass, tempered glass, and float glass.

Laminated Glass

Laminated glass is made by bonding two pieces of glass together with a layer of PVB plastic. It's mainly used in the rear windscreens in cars to help stop occupants being ejected during an accident. This type of windscreen generally comes at a relatively high cost due to the number of factors that contribute to the process, such as the thickness and safety rating.

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is made by heating and then rapidly cooling ordinary float glass. This means it's four to five times stronger than laminated car windscreens, but it can shatter into thousands of pieces when broken. Although toughened glass has the benefit of being cheaper than laminated glass, it can also be more expensive to replace due to the time-consuming process of removing all sharp edges.



Float Glass

Float glass is made by pouring molten glass onto a bed of molten tin. It's less resistant to temperature changes and impact, but it's generally much cheaper than both laminated and toughened car windscreen glass.

#2 The make and model of the car

Depending on  the model and make of car, the cost of a windscreen replacement can widely vary. For example, the current going rate for Toyota windscreens is around $300-400 (AUD), but replacing a BMW windscreen can set you back by as much as over $1,000 (AUD). Therefore, in order for us to  accurately provide you with a windscreen quote, we'll need the make and model of the car before we can give an accurate estimate.

#3 The severity of the damage

The extent of damage to your windscreen will also play a role in how much it costs to replace. If the crack is only minor, it may be possible to repair instead of replacing the car windscreen altogether.

However, if the crack is major and/or there are other damages, such as damage to surrounding panels or sensors , then it may be more cost-effective and less time-consuming to simply replace the windscreen.

Therefore, it's important you provide as much detail as possible with regards to the extent of the damage, otherwise we won't be able to accurately provide you with a quote.

Our experts at Windscreen & Tint are here to help you to determine which type of car windscreen is best suited for your needs. So when it comes to replacing a windscreen, you can be confident in choosing us to get the job done right at a price that won't hurt your wallet.



#4 The location of the damage

Where the damage is located on your car windscreen can also affect its price. If it's in an area that can be repaired, then the overall cost will be lower than if it's in an area that has to be replaced.

For example, if there are sensors or cameras embedded near the crack, then the whole windscreen may have to be replaced due to the damage being too close to the edge. In this case, a windscreen replacement could end up costing you around $1,000 (AUD).



However, if it's in an area that can't be repaired, then only the section of the car windscreen where the crack is located will have to be replaced. In this case, the price will largely depend on whether you have a standard windscreen or laminated safety glass.

#5 Whether or not the glass is tinted

The type of glass you have can also affect the price. Standard windscreens tend to be cheaper than safety and tinted glasses, as they're made from standard float glass. Safety car windscreens are more expensive due to their added resistance to impact and temperature change, while tinted car windscreens are even pricier due to extra equipment required to install the tinted film.



As well as increasing the safety of your car, tints also play a big role in protecting you from UV rays that can cause sun damage and even skin cancer. So if you're concerned about the long-term effects of driving around with an exposed windscreen, then tinting it could be worth the extra expense.

Conclusion

If you're in need of a new windscreen, it's important to know that the cost will vary depending on a number of factors. For example, if your car has any sensors or cameras near the crack then they'll have to be replaced as well and may end up costing more than $1,000 (AUD). If you can get us all this information before we provide an estimate for replacing your windscreen with tinted film , we'll be able to help make sure that you get exactly what you want at a price that suits your budget. Our team of experts are ready and waiting to partner with you so contact Windscreens & Tint today!