In unforeseen circumstances, such as locking your keys in the car while out camping miles away from help or accidentally locking your kid in the car on a hot day, you may find yourself in a situation where breaking a car window becomes necessary. While the need to replace a broken window can be stressful, it’s important to be aware of the most cost-effective options available. In this blog post, we will explore different car windows and their associated replacement costs, helping you make an informed decision.
Small Rear or Small Front Window:
Contrary to popular belief, the assumption that smaller windows are always cheaper to replace doesn’t always hold true. Take, for example, the small triangular windows found in the front or rear doors of a car. One might assume that these windows would be the most affordable to break in case of a lockout situation. However, industry experts point out that these small, fixed-position triangular windows are not manufactured in the same quantities as the main side windows, making them actually more expensive to purchase.
Windshield:
Windshields and rear windshield replacement tends to be more expensive compared to side and rear windows. Windshields are typically made of laminated glass, which is designed to shatter without causing injury. However, the manufacturing process and the added safety features increase the complexity and cost of replacement. Furthermore, both the front and rear windshields might include integrated hardware designed to assist the defrost settings increasing the cost of replacement. Breaking the windshield should be considered only as a last resort due to the higher replacement expenses involved. Replacing your windshields can cost anywhere from $350 to $2,500.
Side Windows:
Among the various windows in your car, side windows tend to be the most affordable to replace. These windows are typically smaller and simpler in design compared to windshields or rear windows. Consequently, their replacement costs are generally lower. If you find yourself in a situation where you must break a window, targeting a side window can save you the most money when it comes to replacement. The cost of replacing a side window for most cars varies between $100 and $350. Replacement costs all depend on the make and model of your vehicle and laminated glass can cost two to three times as much as tempered glass.
Remember:
In situations where breaking a car window becomes unavoidable, it’s important to understand the cost implications associated with replacement. While the immediate access to your car might be your primary concern and not the cost to fix your window, this post aims to assist you in potentially reducing expenses should the situation arise. Front side windows are generally the most affordable option, followed by rear side windows. Windshield replacement tends to be the most expensive due to its specialized construction and hardware. Remember, breaking a window should always be a last resort. It’s advisable to consult a professional for window replacement to ensure proper installation and safety.
