Windshield chips and cracks
What the words mean, what to ask, and who decides.
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The words
People use "chip" for a small spot of broken glass, "crack" for a line in the glass, and "pitting" for fine marks across the surface. These are our own plain descriptions, not official definitions. They do not say whether any damage can be repaired, will spread, or affects driving.
What the glass rule is for
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 205 is about glazing materials. It says its purpose is "to reduce injuries resulting from impact to glazing surfaces, to ensure a necessary degree of transparency in motor vehicle windows for driver visibility, and to minimize the possibility of occupants being thrown through the vehicle windows in collisions."
Can it be repaired?
We do not say whether any chip or crack can be repaired, or whether it will spread. Ask a qualified shop and follow your vehicle maker's guidance.
Driving with damage
We do not say whether driving with a chip or crack is legal or safe. Laws differ by state, and we name none here; check your state's own laws. Ask a qualified shop and follow your vehicle maker's guidance. We do not answer insurance questions; ask your insurer or agent. This is general information, not legal advice.
Ask in writing
The FTC says to ask for a written estimate, and that "It should identify the condition to be repaired, the parts needed, and the anticipated labor charge."
No home repair steps
We give no do-it-yourself repair or resin steps. Use a qualified professional.
FAQ
General information only. We are not a glass shop, insurer, or agent, and we do not schedule, quote, or refer. Whether your policy covers glass damage, and what you would pay, depend on your policy and your insurer; read your policy and ask your insurer or agent. If your vehicle has driver assistance features, follow your vehicle maker's instructions and owner's manual on any calibration after glass work.
Next: repair or replacement
Who decides, and what to get in writing.
