Hey folks, I live in Houston and it's been raining here for the past 4 days straight. Well, anyway, I was at this light one car length behind a Dodge Dually and it was raining. The light turned green and this guy in the Dodge truck floored it. Of course, the idiot spun his tires and spit up some stones (pebbles, or whatever you wanna call it) into the air. One peppermint size chunk slammed right into the middle of the driver's side and left a spider dent with streaks that are sure to spread over time. My TL is an NBP '06 that I just purchased in February, so I still consider it fairly new.

My probelm is I need to figure out what to do about it. It's right in the driver's sight of view. Should I buy one of those windshield repair kits from Autozone? Take it to the dealer? Is this covered under warranty? Does insurance cover this stuff? Or should I trust one of those Windshield repair guys on the side of the road?

I know the summer heat down here in the souuth will definately make this crack spread so any suggestions will do.

 

First, I suggest you contact your insurance company. My insurance covers the total cost if it can be repaired. They can usually repair up to some inches (not sure how long). I have had about 4 repaired in the last year. The company comes to my office or home. If it can't be repaired the normal insurance deal, they pay you pay the deductible. Whatever you don't do it soon because our southern weather will make that thing spread. Good luck!

 

Check with your state laws regarding repair of a crack that impairs the vision of the driver. In CA shops arent allowed to touch anything that is on the driver side. As jmaikamon said, check with your insurance co. about the policy you have regarding windshield replacement.

 

Thanks guys. Will this make my insurance rate go up if I use that route? Will it be considered filing a claim? I'm with allstate btw.

 

I havent dealt with my insurance co. about a replacement but from talking with others they told me it really depends on your policy and coverage. I dont think your rates will go up, you might have to pay a small deductible like jmaik said but it shouldnt be considered a traditional claim

 

My rates did not increase. As a matter of fact the insurance companies save if they do a repair versus a replacement, which is why they pay the total cost of repair. Most insurance companies have glass companies they use so you have no paperwork or anything , they show up, do the repair, you sign and they leave.