Here’s a crazy fact: according to the Auto Glass Safety Council, nearly 14 million windshields are replaced in the U.S. every year.
Yet most of those replacements could have been simple repairs—if people didn’t fall for common myths.
Ever heard someone say, “It’s just a small crack, I can ignore it” or “DIY kits work just as well as professionals”?
Those little myths cost drivers hundreds of dollars, not to mention safety risks.
Picture this: You’re driving down I-75 in Sterling Heights. A tiny rock chips your windshield. You shrug it off. Weeks later, that small chip spreads into a giant crack across your line of sight. Now you’re not only facing a full replacement but also risking getting pulled over for unsafe visibility.
The truth is, misinformation about windshield repair spreads faster than cracks in the glass.
And if you don’t separate fact from fiction, you could be wasting money, failing inspections, or even endangering your passengers.
In this article, we’re busting the 5 most common windshield repair myths—and giving you the facts you need to stay safe, save money, and make smarter repair choices.
Myth #1: “A Small Chip Isn’t a Big Deal”
Most drivers see a tiny chip and think: “It’s barely noticeable, why bother?”
But here’s the reality—windshield chips spread fast.
- Vibrations from driving
- Changes in temperature (hello, Michigan winters)
- Even hitting a pothole
…all make cracks grow bigger.
According to AAA, a chip as small as a dime can turn into a full crack within days.
The Fact: Fix chips right away. A quick repair takes about 30 minutes and costs far less than a full windshield replacement.
Mini story: One Sterling Heights driver ignored a chip for three months. By the time he came in, the crack had spread across the driver’s side. Instead of a $70 repair, he paid nearly $400 for a replacement.
Takeaway: Don’t underestimate a chip—it’s a ticking time bomb.
Myth #2: “DIY Kits Work Just as Well as the Pros”
You’ve probably seen DIY windshield repair kits online for $20–$30.
Sounds tempting, right?
Here’s the problem:
- They don’t fully seal deep cracks.
- They leave behind air bubbles.
- They rarely restore visibility to safe standards.
A Consumer Reports test found that most DIY kits only slow down crack spreading—they don’t actually fix it.
The Fact: Professional repairs use industrial-grade resin and vacuum technology that DIY kits simply can’t match.
Takeaway: DIY might work as a quick patch, but for long-term safety, leave it to the pros.
Myth #3: “Windshield Repairs Take Too Long”
Busy schedule? Most people avoid repairs because they assume it’ll take all day.
But guess what?
- A standard repair = 20–30 minutes
- A full replacement = 1–2 hours
- Many shops (like mobile windshield repair in Sterling Heights) come to you
The Fact: Waiting weeks to fix your glass will cost you more time and money in the long run.
Takeaway: Repairs are faster than your morning grocery run.
Myth #4: “Insurance Doesn’t Cover Windshield Repairs”
This one keeps a lot of drivers from calling their insurance.
But in many states—including Michigan—comprehensive insurance covers windshield repairs and sometimes replacements with little or no deductible.
In fact, insurers prefer paying for small repairs because it’s cheaper than footing the bill for full replacements.
Mini stat: According to Progressive, repairing a chip saves insurers an average of $350 per claim.
The Fact: A quick call to your insurance company could mean a free or low-cost repair.
Takeaway: Don’t assume—it pays to check your policy.
Myth #5: “It’s Okay to Drive with a Cracked Windshield”
This one is dangerous. Some drivers treat a cracked windshield like a scratched bumper: annoying but harmless.
But here’s what most don’t know:
- The windshield supports up to 45% of your car’s structural strength in a crash.
- It ensures airbags deploy properly.
- Driving with impaired visibility can get you ticketed in Michigan.
Mini story: A driver in Sterling Heights was pulled over after an officer noticed his windshield crack obstructing his view. The ticket cost more than a repair would have.
The Fact: Cracks aren’t just cosmetic—they put your safety and wallet at risk.
Takeaway: Driving with a cracked windshield isn’t just unsafe—it’s illegal in many places.
What Local Experts Say
Windshield myths may be everywhere, but good auto glass shops are fighting back with education.
The founder of Save On Autoglass in Sterling Heights explains:
“We see too many drivers come in after ignoring small chips. By then, they’re paying hundreds for a replacement when a repair would’ve been quick and cheap. Our job isn’t just fixing glass—it’s teaching people that prevention saves both money and lives.”
When local businesses lead with honesty, drivers get better outcomes and safer roads.
Takeaway: Trust shops that care more about your safety than selling a replacement.
FAQs About Windshield Repair
1. Can a cracked windshield be repaired instead of replaced?
Yes—if the crack is under 6 inches and not in your line of sight.
2. How long does a windshield repair take?
Most repairs are done in 20–30 minutes.
3. How much does windshield repair cost?
Typically between $50–$150, depending on the damage.
4. Will my insurance go up if I file a windshield claim?
Not usually. Windshield claims are often treated differently from collision claims.
5. What happens if I ignore a small chip?
It can spread into a full crack, requiring a costly replacement.
6. Is mobile windshield repair reliable?
Yes. Certified mobile techs use the same equipment as in-shop services.
7. Can winter weather make cracks worse?
Absolutely. Cold temperatures and defroster heat both expand cracks quickly.
Conclusion:
Windshield repair isn’t complicated—but the myths around it cost drivers time, money, and safety.
Here’s the truth in one line:
- Chips grow into cracks.
- DIY kits aren’t enough.
- Repairs are fast and often covered by insurance.
- Driving with cracks is unsafe and sometimes illegal.
So, the next time you hear someone downplay a windshield chip, remember: it’s not just glass—it’s your safety barrier.
