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Can you trust your local Automotive Dealership for Windshield Replacement?

Writer's picture: raul plascenciaraul plascencia
Mar 4, 20244 min read

Some local Automotive dealerships may cut corners to save money when replacing your windshield.






The trustworthiness of your local automotive dealership in safely replacing your windshield can vary based on the specific dealership and its practices. This blog post will help you find the right auto glass repair shop for all your windshield repair, windshield replacement, window repair, sunroof repair, and ADAS Calibration needs. Here are some factors to consider:


Reputation

Research the reputation of the dealership. Look for reviews and testimonials from other customers who have had their windshields or other services done at the dealership. Online reviews or word-of-mouth recommendations can provide insights into the quality of their work.


Certifications and Training

Check if the dealership has their own technicians or if they sublet their work to a second or third-party car window replacement shop. Ask if any of the automotive glass technicians are certified and if they are well-trained in windshield replacement. Technicians with proper certifications and training are more likely to perform the job correctly and safely. Consider these questions

  1. What is the minimum drive-away time (MDAT)? We recommend Sika Ultimate because it's a 30-minute drive away adhesive. In 30 minutes, it meets the requirements to be driven properly on the road again.

  2. Are they an Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC)-Registered Member Company? Only a few shops are truly Certified. Find a Certified shop at Safewindshields.org

  3. Do they meet or exceed the safety standards? Click Here to read about Safety Standards.

  4. Can the technicians show proof of proper training or certification? A technician that has pride in their workmanship will have evidence of proper training and certifications.


Quality of Materials

Inquire about the quality of the replacement materials they use. Reputable dealerships usually use high-quality OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or equivalent glass and adhesives to ensure safety and performance.


If you are paying for top dollar windshield replacement and you requested OEM glass, please check on one of the lower corners of the windshield for the "BUG LABEL" it should have the manufactures logo. In most cases, an aftermarket ( not original ) windshield could be used as long as it meets or exceeds safety standard regulations.


The dealership should provide you with a detailed invoice labeling what adhesive was used, the minimum drive away time, lot number, batch number, and product expiration dates.


Insurance and Warranty

Check if the dealership offers a warranty on their windshield replacement work. Additionally, ensure that the dealership is properly insured so you are covered in case of any issues arising from the replacement.


If your vehicle is equipped with Advance Driver Assist Systems (ADAS), Please request a pre- and post-inspection report. Most locations do not perform the calibrations but rather give you a report. Ask for proof of calibration.


Ask Questions

Don't hesitate to ask questions about the repair replacement process of the Glass installation, the type of glass used, the time required for the replacement, and any other concerns you may have. A trustworthy dealership will be transparent and willing to address your queries.

There is no such thing as a Dumb Question when it comes to your safety.

Here at Direct Quality Auto Glass, we enjoy answering any auto glass questions that you may have. Knowledge is Power.


Compare Prices

While cost should not be the sole determining factor, comparing prices for windshield replacement services is still a good idea. However, be cautious of significantly lower prices, as they may indicate the use of inferior materials or inadequate workmanship.

Always look for credibility; DO NOT simply look for reviews. Most Auto Glass replacement service centers buy reviews online to make their profiles look strong and reliable.

Check for Certification and Compliance

Ensure that the dealership complies with local regulations and industry standards for windshield replacement. Certification by relevant automotive associations can be a positive indicator.


The Auto Glass Safety Council developed an Auto Glass Safety Standard. The Standard represents the auto glass replacement industry’s current best practices as determined by a broad-based balanced committee of auto glass replacement practitioners, trainers, suppliers, and other interested parties.


Participating in the standard is not mandatory, but a properly trained auto glass repair technician will follow the regulations.


We have achieved the highest training at Direct Quality Auto Glass Replacement in San Bernardino, CA. We are among the few Master Auto Glass Technicians in the United States.


Get Multiple Quotes

Consider obtaining quotes from multiple dealerships or auto glass service providers to compare services and pricing. This can give you a better idea of what is reasonable and help you make an informed decision. Remember, go to Safewindshields.org to find a proper professional near you.


In summary, while there are reputable dealerships that can safely replace your windshield, it's essential to do your due diligence. Research their reputation, certifications, and materials used, and ask questions to ensure that you feel confident in their ability to perform a safe and reliable windshield replacement.


Direct quality auto glass specializes in auto glass repair in san bernardino CA. If you have a broken glass or power window issues we have a wide range of parts in our inventory to help you with your windshield repair in san bernardino and windshield replace in san bernardino.




 
 
  • Are you Certified to service windshield repair and windshield replacement in san bernardino county?
    Yes, We are the only true certified shop that is register with the Auto Glass Safety Council and the National Windshield Repair Association. We repair and replace auto glass based on the safety standards in the united states of america. We are the only shop with Master auto glass technicians. Neither local auto glass shops or safelite meet these standards at the moment, Only Direct Quality Auto Glass
  • Does a crack on a windshield need to be repaired or replaced?
    If the crack or chip in the windshield is small, it can probably be fixed. But if it's big, especially in the driver's view, it's safer to get the whole windshield replaced. Legally a chip no bigger than 1 inch can be repaired by the drivers view, only 2 repairs 4 inches away are repairable legally. If the crack is spreading a lot or if its flexing making the windshield weaker, it has to be replaced. It's best to ask Direct Quality Auto Glass over the phone or in person. We are your auto glass professionals, We will help you to figure out what to do.
  • Is windshield replacement covered by insurance? What is the claim process?
    If you have a low comfortable comprehensive deductible then your insurance company will cover the Windshield replacement at the cost of your deductible. We strongly recommend calling your insurance agent and tell them how the windshield broke with a time and date. The insurance agent will try to steer you to using Safelite for windshield repair or replacements, By law you have the right to chose any shop of your choice. When you call and request Direct Quality Auto Glass they will approve the work order and we will be in contact with you to schedule an appointment either the same or next day.
  • How long does a windshield replacement take?
    Every make and model have different installation times. On average a Proper and professional installation done by us here at direct quality auto glass takes about 2 hours. We make sure to properly remove the Cowl, wipers and other trims for a safe windshield replacement. If your vehicle is equipped with ADAS systems (lane departure camera) We always require an extra hour for a proper calibration.
  • Can a small chip or crack in the windshield be repaired, or does it need to be replaced?
    A small Windshield Rock Chip is repairable as long as the chip is not near the drivers sight of view or at the black band surrounding the windshield. Small Windshield Cracks are repairable, Here at direct quality auto glass we only repair up too 5 inches of length.
  • Does AAA cover Windshield Replacement?
    Yes, they do cover it. It all depends on the comprehensive deductible that you have. For instance, if your deductible is $500 but the cost of replacing your windshield and calibration is $1250, it would be advisable to use your comprehensive deductible. This way, you will only need to pay $500 to the auto glass shop and your insurance will cover the remaining amount. Your insurance rate is unlikely to increase as you were not at fault for the broken windshield in most cases. If your Windshield replacement is under the cost of your comprehensive deductible then we do not recommend using your insurance. The less you report the better to insurance companies.
  • How long does it take to replace the windshield?
    The time required for replacing a windshield usually depends on various factors. These factors include the type of vehicle, the specific windshield technology, and the conditions in which the replacement is being carried out. The windshield technology can include rain sensors, lane departure warning systems, or heads-up displays. The conditions such as temperature and humidity can also affect the adhesive curing times. On average, a windshield replacement that involves several technology factors takes around three hours to complete. This duration includes the time required for safe drive away, calibration, cleaning, and inspection.
  • How long to leave tape on after windshield replacement?
    The duration for which you need to keep the tape on your new windshield may vary depending on various factors such as the type of urethane adhesive used, the weather conditions, and the instructions provided by the person who installed the windshield. Our installations usually come with a 30-minute urethane kit, and we typically advise customers to leave the tape on for an hour.In the case where a 3-hour urethane was used, we strongly advise leaving the tape on until the next morning.
  • How often should I replace my windshield wipers?
    It is recommended to replace your windshield wipers every six to twelve months, depending on their condition and usage. The actual frequency of replacement can vary based on factors such as weather conditions, quality of the wipers, usage, and signs of wear. We suggest investing in affordable standard windshield wipers instead of expensive ones.
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