Any window crack/chip experts?

[Forgetful]

I got nailed on the highway by a big rock. What are the odds a shop could even fix this one? The pit on the star impact one is 1/16th to 3/32 deep. And the cracks are close to 2in.

I really don't want a new windshield because the seals will never be the same and there's the stupid camera safety features that have to be calibrated. So it's like a $2,000 job which inevitably will affect insurance.

Just curious how hard I push on fixing versus just accepting that it's bad enough that it needs a new windshield.

 

[SlickTRD]

most shops wont guarantee a fix that is over a quarter in size and that first one is big. they will even advise that while attempting to fix they can make it worse and wont be liable for making that crack bigger. and once that crack is too big its 100% replacement time.

 

[janimal]

Definitely more than a chip. It almost look like gun shots visually. It was me, I think I’d replace vs risking the whole thinking cracking even more eventually. It would also become an eyesore. But that’s me.

How about going to the insurance route? I know your concern is recalibrating the cam and not OEM seal but if you have good deductible it might be worth it to just replace vs doing a wait and see, no?

Good luck!

 

[LeekT4R]

Just replace the windshield. Putting epoxy in the cracks is like putting a bandaid on a bullet hole.

 

[131North]

The tech that repaired my *much* smaller chip a couple weeks ago said he's repaired stuff up to dollar bill size. That just seems crazy to me. For the heck of it why not buy a $16 kit off Amazon and try it yourself?

 

[Jeremy556]

I would say that windshield is done. Those long cracks will spread.

In case you didn't know, the 4runner has a very upright windshield and requires frequent replacement if you live in an area that has lots of rocks on the road.

I've had a good 8 or so windshields and never had any problems with sealing, just usually the glass guys forgetting to route the rear view mirror wiring correctly.

 

[Sonoran_Desert]

Not sure how old your T4R but this will likely not be your last large crack. These windshields crack easily - both the OEM glass and aftermarket. View this as a chance to get comfortable with windshield replacement so next time will be turn-key and worry-free. I have had OEM windshield replaced with non-OEM glass and have not noticed any difference.

Regarding insurance: My insurer State Farm told me that window replacement by itself will not trigger a rate rise. I have not seen any appreciable rate increases since replacing my windshield 4 years ago.

 

[fkheath]

Not sure how old your T4R but this will likely not be your last large crack. These windshields crack easily - both the OEM glass and aftermarket. View this as a chance to get comfortable with windshield replacement so next time will be turn-key and worry-free. I have had OEM windshield replaced with non-OEM glass and have not noticed any difference.

Regarding insurance: My insurer State Farm told me that window replacement by itself will not trigger a rate rise. I have not seen any appreciable rate increases since replacing my windshield 4 years ago.

Within a week of taking delivery of my new '18 4Runner, I got a rock chip and a crack. Over time the crack has grown, but none directly in my line of sight. Only issue is an occasional glint when the sun is in the right position. Been like that for five years now and not a problem for me.

If my state had a safety inspection, I would probably have to replace it.

 

[lewdog998]

I would try and fix it just for fun...its easy, I have done several with the diy kits with great results. Never had one expand, but that one is pretty big. I have had shitty windshield replacement jobs over years, so I tend to avoid it if at all possible.

 

[The4RunnerDude]

I sold insurance for a number of companies many moons ago so I thought I'd chime in...

Glass damage claims from rocks while driving are covered under comprehensive coverage and typically most companies don't raise your rates for it unless you have multiple comp claims in a 2-3 year period.

There's a possibility depending on which insurance company you have, if you are getting some type of accident/claim free discount, it could be taken away for filing a comp claim which makes it seem like your rates increase though. So check your coverage and talk to your agent first.

 

[Syr4RinNC]

I think there is a decent chance that a DIY kit or body shop fix doesnt last, but if your goal is to try to prevent a replacement and your okay dealing with it for a bit, then its worth a shot.

If you do go with safelite, I found that going through the registration and keeping the details in the "box" as long as possible before scheduling you will get escalating discount coupons as the days go on

 

[CutthroatSlam]

If you are in snow country, you’re replacing a windshield almost every year.

On our ordered 2023 off-road, we paid sticker but the salesman was adamant that we pay some
upcharge. We settled on $900 for a 5 year windshield protection plan that covered 5 windshields. I will make sure we get 5 windshields

 

[Forgetful]

Thanks all, I'm talking it in tomorrow to a shop to see if it's repairable.
I have 0 deductable glass but had such a nightmare experience last time with Safelite I never want a windshield replaced if possible. Any side windows/tint I do myself.
Arizona sucks for rocks, I think we're #1 in the country overall for window damage.

 

[JamesInCA]

Just curious, what are you guys seeing in various areas for replacement windshield costs?

Any company or brand you'd recommend and/or avoid?

Other than cost, differences in quality or features at the dealer vs aftermarket?


Thanks