Windshield repair/replace
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 286
Likes: 148
Windshield repair/replace
Recently purchased a 2014 C7. The prior (and original owner) got a small impact crack in the windshield from debris impacting the glass. He took the car to a windshield specialist who sealed the crack. Apparently, they did not feel it was necessary to replace the windshield. The area seems to be stable at this point, however, I am thinking about looking into a new windshield in the near future. This brings up a few questions:
Is there a certain size or diameter the crack (chip) must be to warrant replacement?
Can you trust the well-known mobil repair companies to do the job right? Not sure if installs on C7s are any more difficult?
Can you have this done at a body shop or dealer of your preference and still get reimbursed by insurance?
The size is less than a pencil eraser. Most people don't even notice it's there, but it 's certainly noticeable to me!
Any input shared would be greatly appreciated!
Is there a certain size or diameter the crack (chip) must be to warrant replacement?
Can you trust the well-known mobil repair companies to do the job right? Not sure if installs on C7s are any more difficult?
Can you have this done at a body shop or dealer of your preference and still get reimbursed by insurance?
The size is less than a pencil eraser. Most people don't even notice it's there, but it 's certainly noticeable to me!
Any input shared would be greatly appreciated!
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 13,602
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From: Virginia
I'm like you in that I want my stuff to be right so a pencil eraser sized windshield defect would bother me as well. That being said, the best windshield install is the one done at the factory. Anytime a windshield is replaced there's risk of leaking and/or damage to your vehicle. Risk is greater with a C7 windshield replacement than some other vehicles.
It's been my experience that if there's a crack or chip in your windshield the insurance will cover replacement, however if you agree to have it repaired they will typically wave the deductible. At least that's how my insurances companies have handled windshield issues.
It's been my experience that if there's a crack or chip in your windshield the insurance will cover replacement, however if you agree to have it repaired they will typically wave the deductible. At least that's how my insurances companies have handled windshield issues.
Last edited by Kevin A Jones; Mar 22, 2021 at 09:11 PM.
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Your best bet is to discuss the windshield chip with your insurance company - most likely they have some guidelines they follow concerning replacement. It also can depend on just where the chip is located - in the line of sight or not.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 286
Likes: 148
I'm like you in that I want my stuff to be right so a pencil sized windshield defect would bother me as well. That being said, the best windshield install is the one done at the factory. Anytime a windshield is replaced there's risk of leaking and/or damage to your vehicle. Risk is greater with a C7 windshield replacement than some other vehicles.
It's been my experience that if there's a crack or chip in your windshield the insurance will cover replacement, however if you agree to have it repaired they will typically wave the deductible. At least that's how my insurances companies have handled windshield issues.
It's been my experience that if there's a crack or chip in your windshield the insurance will cover replacement, however if you agree to have it repaired they will typically wave the deductible. At least that's how my insurances companies have handled windshield issues.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 286
Likes: 148
Good thought! I'll discuss it with the insurance company.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 13,602
Likes: 12,864
From: Virginia
I'm fortunate in that I've used the same glass shop for my windshield replacements for about 40 years and with a wife and (3) daughters I've had to replace A LOT of windshields over the years.
All I ever do is call them and give them the auto insurer and they do the rest. Never a problem.
Advanced
Joined: Nov 2020
Posts: 97
Likes: 10
My C7 has a small defect on the windshield like yours. Mine has two cracks from center of impact. I bought the car like that. Both cracks have been stop drilled by I assume qualified vendor. It looks good repair and no factor in looks or performance. In my case windshield replacement has to match the heads up display and few temprature probs so make sure you have the correct windshield. I wouldnt change it.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 3,076
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From: Northville Michigan
C7 of the Year - Unmodified Finalist 2021
I've had my small chip for about 3-4yrs and I am OCD and learned to live with and it doesn't bother me especially since it is on passenger side and down lower on the windshield although I will eventually get it replaced but just hadn't been in any type of a hurry since the car still drives great at 150 mph so the chip hasn't impacted the performance of the car. 
Last edited by KGrant; Mar 23, 2021 at 09:19 AM.
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From: Home of the VOLS ! Knoxville, TN. Tennessee
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One thing to keep in mind: once a chip or crack has been "fixed" , it can't be reworked. They have one shot at it.
safelite was a good place for my windshield replacement on my previous cars. Never a leak.
Their prices are good too. You can ask for a GM windshield if stamping matters to you. They can order it .
GM body shops don't install windshields. They call outside installers to come in and do it. Might as well cut out the middle man.
safelite was a good place for my windshield replacement on my previous cars. Never a leak.
Their prices are good too. You can ask for a GM windshield if stamping matters to you. They can order it .
GM body shops don't install windshields. They call outside installers to come in and do it. Might as well cut out the middle man.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2015
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From: SC from CT
St. Jude Donor '18 thru '25
I say this is on all the posts that I see regarding windshields. Make sure your replacement is an OEM. It may or may not matter to you but for resale and quality concerns.it just may.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 8,672
Likes: 2,726
From: Atlanta GA
Everything you want to know about windshield replacement and more see my posts in the thread below
Feel free to PM me
Installation of a C7 contrary to popular belief is no more complicated than a normal install.... dont let anyone tell you any different
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...t-ideas-3.html
Dave
Feel free to PM me
Installation of a C7 contrary to popular belief is no more complicated than a normal install.... dont let anyone tell you any different
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...t-ideas-3.html
Dave
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 8,672
Likes: 2,726
From: Atlanta GA
I can show you plenty of factory installed windshield that have complete bond failure . And as for as the seal and chance of damage, it all depends on who you choose as your installer as a install on a C7 might seem complicated but in reality it is not especially with the correct tools . I can show you 100 models that are way more complicated especially any ADAS equipped cars where there is a need to recalibrate the vehicle
Dave
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2014
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From: Atlanta GA
Several other OEM manufacturers make a high quality C7 window also
Dave
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2021
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From: Powell TN
Befree2 spin:
In my several replacement experiences, one of the biggest factors in getting a good watertight seal is how the new windshield is treated in the first 24 hours. 1--avoid potholes. 2--close the last door with the window at least 1/2 DOWN (indexed windows are insufficient at releasing positive cabin air pressure). 3--if its a sunny day, park it outdoors for awhile to help cure.
Save the wave,
Kangarew
In my several replacement experiences, one of the biggest factors in getting a good watertight seal is how the new windshield is treated in the first 24 hours. 1--avoid potholes. 2--close the last door with the window at least 1/2 DOWN (indexed windows are insufficient at releasing positive cabin air pressure). 3--if its a sunny day, park it outdoors for awhile to help cure.
Save the wave,
Kangarew
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 286
Likes: 148
Befree2 spin:
In my several replacement experiences, one of the biggest factors in getting a good watertight seal is how the new windshield is treated in the first 24 hours. 1--avoid potholes. 2--close the last door with the window at least 1/2 DOWN (indexed windows are insufficient at releasing positive cabin air pressure). 3--if its a sunny day, park it outdoors for awhile to help cure.
Save the wave,
Kangarew
In my several replacement experiences, one of the biggest factors in getting a good watertight seal is how the new windshield is treated in the first 24 hours. 1--avoid potholes. 2--close the last door with the window at least 1/2 DOWN (indexed windows are insufficient at releasing positive cabin air pressure). 3--if its a sunny day, park it outdoors for awhile to help cure.
Save the wave,
Kangarew
Pro
Joined: Mar 2018
Posts: 677
Likes: 414
From: Pensacola, FL
I have ALLSTATE insurance in the state of FL. I had a running crack across the windshield of my truck, when I called to put in the claim, their very first question was..."Can the crack be completely covered by a dollar bill?" evidently, ALLSTATE wont replace until the defect is larger than a dollar bill. In my truck's case...it was a lot larger than a dollar bill. I see you are also in Florida, check with your insurance company. Good Luck!
Race Director
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From: Home of the VOLS ! Knoxville, TN. Tennessee
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I have ALLSTATE insurance in the state of FL. I had a running crack across the windshield of my truck, when I called to put in the claim, their very first question was..."Can the crack be completely covered by a dollar bill?" evidently, ALLSTATE wont replace until the defect is larger than a dollar bill. In my truck's case...it was a lot larger than a dollar bill. I see you are also in Florida, check with your insurance company. Good Luck!
If you are within your deductible, it will save you from having this replacement as an incident on your record. Yes, a windshield replacement goes on your insurance record as an incident.