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Is It a Good Idea to Get Windshield Replacement for Older Vehicles?

If your vehicle’s windshield is damaged due to an accident, collision, vandalism, or weather, you must get it repaired or replaced as quickly as possible. Driving with a damaged windshield is not only unsafe, but it may also be against the law. Alberta’s Vehicle Equipment Regulation prohibits drivers from operating a vehicle that has windshield damage that obscures their vision in any way. This means that you could face financial and legal issues if you drive with a cracked or broken windshield. If you have an older vehicle, the same regulation applies. However, windshield repair or windshield replacement for older cars can be more challenging. Here is a closer look at whether it is a good idea to get windshield replacement for older vehicles.

Worker replacing a car windshield in Edmonton and Leduc, AB

Why Older Vehicle Windshield Replacement Is Challenging

Replacing a cracked or damaged windshield on an older vehicle can be challenging. Depending upon the vehicle’s age, make, model, and the severity of the damage, it may be hard or impossible to find OEM replacement glass or aftermarket. Older and vintage vehicles may require unique glass or components that are scarce or outdated by today’s standards. The windshield molding, glass, rubber gasket mounting systems, seals, and trim may be hard to find. For very old vehicles, you may need to find an auto technician who has specialized knowledge of the techniques and tools needed to work on a classic car or older vehicle. Also, depending upon the condition, age, and value of your vehicle, it may not be worth the added cost to invest in a windshield replacement, as the cost may be almost as high as the vehicle’s value. At Auto Glass Solutions, we work on vehicles of any age, but we specialize in older model vehicles.

Factors to Consider Before Investing in Windshield Replacement

Older cars are more likely to be in poor shape due to weather and road damage, wear and tear, poor maintenance, and decades of driving. Windshield repair or replacement is a necessary investment in the safety and drivability of the vehicle; however, it may not be a wise investment depending upon certain factors. Here are some of the biggest factors to consider before you replace the windshield in an older vehicle:

  • Severity of the Damage – If the damage to the windshield is severe, the body is also damaged, or the cost of the windshield replacement is very high, it might not be a good investment. If the damage is so severe that the cost of windshield repair or replacement is close to or more than half the cost of the vehicle’s value, it might be a good idea to consider the car a loss.
  • Value of the Vehicle – Older vehicles that are not collector’s vehicles, classic cars, or vintage vehicles typically don’t have a high resale value. This means that investing a lot of money in their repair might be fruitless, as you are likely to need ongoing expensive repairs, or the vehicle might not even be drivable in the future. It may be better to consider the vehicle a loss and invest the money you would have spent on windshield replacement into buying a more modern vehicle.
  • Auto Insurance Policy Coverage – If your auto insurance policy does not cover windshield replacement for your vehicle, and you will be paying out of pocket, it may not be a good investment. Some auto insurance companies won’t pay for major repair costs for vehicles that are over a certain age, as they may not be roadworthy for much longer. Always check with your insurance company to find out what’s covered.
  • Legal Requirements – You are legally required to repair or replace windshield damage when the damage obstructs your vision or affects your ability to safely see out of your windshield to drive.

Benefits of Replacing the Windshield on an Older Vehicle

The biggest benefit of replacing the windshield on an older vehicle is that it is safer to drive. Some additional benefits are:

  • Restores the structural integrity of the vehicle
  • Reduces risk of injury or vehicle damage in an accident or collision
  • Improves visibility and safety on the road
  • Ensures proper airbag deployment in an accident if equipped
  • Maintains the value of the vehicle
  • Ensures legal compliance and reduces the risk of fines
  • Protects against water leaks and wind noise

Don’t Let a Cracked Windshield Put You at Risk. Call Us Now

At Auto Glass Solutions, we have two auto glass shops in Alberta. We provide high-quality, reliable auto glass services in Edmonton and Leduc, AB. If you have a cracked windshield, we can determine if it is safer and more cost-effective for you to invest in windshield repair or replacement. We can also work with your insurance company to get your windshield repair or replacement covered. We have a team of skilled, experienced auto glass technicians on site and will offer an instant quote for the cost of windshield services. We also offer ADAS calibration services post-repair or replacement. We work on all makes and models of vehicles, from sedans to semi-trucks. Call us now or reach out to us online to get an estimate for windshield repair services.