Windshield Replacement for Lease Vehicles | What You Need to Know

Windshield replacement for lease vehicles is a crucial aspect of maintaining the condition of a leased car. Proper care and prompt repairs are essential to ensure the vehicle remains in good shape throughout the lease term, avoiding unnecessary penalties or extra charges. The windshield, being a key safety feature, plays an important role in visibility and protection. Damage such as cracks or chips can compromise its structural integrity and impact the overall driving experience. Addressing any windshield issues quickly prevents additional costs, helps maintain the vehicle’s value, and ensures compliance with lease agreement terms.

What to Do If Your Windshield Is Broken on a Leased Car?

At Texas Reliable Auto Glass, we understand how stressful it can be when your leased car’s windshield gets damaged. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you address the situation quickly and efficiently.

Immediate Steps to Take

Assess the Damage:

Crack Size & Severity: Examine the crack or chip to determine how large and deep it is. Small chips or cracks that are under 3 inches may be repairable. Larger cracks or ones that obstruct visibility will likely require a full replacement.
Visibility Issues: If the damage affects the driver’s line of sight, it’s essential to address it immediately, as this can be a safety hazard.

Contact Your Leasing Company or Dealership:

Report the Damage: Notify the leasing company or dealership right away. Many leases have specific procedures for handling damages to the vehicle, including glass.
Ask for Guidance: They may have preferred service providers or instructions on how to proceed with repairs or replacements.

Check Your Lease Agreement for Coverage Details:

Insurance Coverage: Some leasing agreements include glass coverage or may offer an optional insurance add-on that covers windshield repairs or replacements. Review your lease terms to understand what’s covered.
Out-of-Pocket Costs: If coverage is limited, you may be responsible for the cost of the repair or replacement. It’s good to understand any deductible or fees that might apply.

Temporary Solutions

While waiting for the windshield to be repaired or replaced, you might need to take some immediate actions to prevent further damage:

Secure the Windshield Temporarily:

Tape Over Cracks: If the damage is a crack, you can use clear packing tape over the crack to prevent debris from getting inside and to hold it in place. Be sure to avoid using duct tape, as it can leave a sticky residue.
Cover with a Plastic Sheet: If the windshield is shattered, cover it with a plastic sheet or tarp to protect yourself and others from glass fragments. Secure the cover with tape or rope.
Drive with Caution: If the damage is minor and you need to drive to get repairs, go slow and avoid potholes or extreme temperatures that could worsen the damage.

Consider Safety:

Avoid Driving if Necessary: If the crack or damage compromises the structural integrity of the windshield or impedes visibility, it’s safest to not drive the car until it’s repaired.

When to Consider Full Replacement vs Repair
Repair:

Minor chips and cracks (typically smaller than 3 inches) can often be repaired by injecting resin into the damaged area. This will restore the windshield’s strength and clarity without the need for a full replacement.
When to Repair: If the crack is small, does not obstruct the driver’s view, and is not near the edges of the windshield.

Replacement:

If the crack is large, or if it extends across the windshield, a full replacement may be necessary. Additionally, if the crack is in the driver’s direct line of sight or affects the structural integrity, a replacement is recommended.
When to Replace: If the damage is more than 3 inches, if there are multiple cracks, or if the crack obstructs the driver’s visibility.

At Texas Reliable Auto Glass, we offer expert services to help repair or replace your windshield quickly, so you can get back on the road. Always check with your leasing company first to ensure you’re following the correct procedures, and reach out to us if you need a trusted, professional repair service.

Subaru Windshield Replacement for Lease Vehicles

When it comes to windshield replacement for Subaru vehicles on lease, there are specific considerations both in terms of lease agreements and the unique characteristics of Subaru vehicles. Below is a breakdown of key aspects to keep in mind:

Specific Considerations for Subaru Leased Cars

Lease Agreement Terms: Lease agreements with Subaru (or through Subaru’s leasing partners) typically specify the condition in which the vehicle must be returned. If the windshield is damaged, it could be classified as part of the vehicle’s “excessive wear and tear” unless it falls under certain exceptions like covered insurance or a comprehensive warranty. Some lease contracts require the lessee to maintain the vehicle in good condition, including replacing the windshield if it’s cracked, chipped, or compromised.
Insurance Coverage: In many cases, lease agreements strongly recommend or even require lessees to carry full coverage insurance, including comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive insurance typically covers windshield replacement costs for damages caused by incidents such as flying rocks or natural events (e.g., hail). If you don’t have this coverage, you may be responsible for the costs of windshield replacement.
Authorized Repairs: Some leasing companies or Subaru’s finance division may have approved repair centers for windshield replacement or repair. It’s crucial to use these authorized centers to ensure the repair or replacement complies with the lease terms. If you opt for a non-authorized repair shop, you may be at risk of not having the repair covered by your insurance or violating the lease agreement.
End-of-Lease Inspection: When returning a leased Subaru, an inspection is typically done to assess the condition of the car. If the windshield shows significant damage, it could lead to additional charges, unless the damage is covered by insurance or falls within the lease’s terms for acceptable wear and tear.

Subaru’s Lease Terms Related to Windshield Damage

Repair vs Replacement: Many Subaru leases focus on maintaining the vehicle’s value, and small chips or cracks in the windshield may be acceptable, provided they are repaired promptly. If the damage is more significant, a full replacement might be required.
Excessive Wear and Tear Charges: If the windshield damage is deemed excessive (i.e., large cracks or broken glass that impairs visibility), you may be charged for the repair or replacement at the end of the lease. The cost could be calculated based on the damage’s severity, potentially leading to significant charges if the windshield is not properly repaired or replaced during the lease.
Warranty Coverage: Subaru’s warranty generally does not cover windshield damage unless it’s a result of a manufacturing defect. Therefore, damage due to accidents or external factors, such as road debris, will not be covered under the standard warranty. If you have comprehensive auto insurance, this may provide coverage for these types of damages.

Common Windshield Issues in Subaru Vehicles

Subaru vehicles are known for their durability and safety features, but there are some common windshield issues specific to these cars:

Cracks and Chips from Road Debris: Subaru vehicles, especially those that are used frequently for outdoor or off-road activities, can be more prone to windshield damage from rocks, gravel, and other road debris. The increased visibility of cracks due to the larger windshield area is a concern for drivers.
Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist System: Subaru’s EyeSight system, which uses cameras mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor the road and assist with safety features (such as adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking), relies heavily on the integrity and cleanliness of the windshield. If the windshield is damaged, it may affect the functioning of the system. In some cases, the windshield may need recalibration after a replacement or repair.
Windshield Wiper Issues: Subaru owners sometimes report issues with wiper blades or the windshield washer system, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions. Ice, snow, and even bird droppings can cause wipers to malfunction, contributing to potential windshield damage if the blades scrape the glass.
Leaky Windshield Seals: Over time, seals around the windshield can degrade, especially in older Subaru models, leading to leaks. If the windshield seal is not properly maintained, it could lead to rust or water damage inside the vehicle, which can result in more costly repairs.
Aesthetic Issues: Subaru owners sometimes report issues like visible scratches or smudges that can occur over time. These are typically not structural but can affect the driver’s visibility, making it crucial to maintain the windshield in top condition throughout the lease term.

Toyota Windshield Replacement for Lease Vehicles

When dealing with windshield replacement for lease vehicles specifically for Toyota cars—there are some important considerations. If you are a customer of Texas Reliable Auto Glass, it is essential to understand both the lease agreement policies and typical costs associated with windshield replacement.

Lease Agreement Specifics for Toyota

Lease agreements for Toyota vehicles generally outline the obligations of the lessee regarding vehicle maintenance and repairs. While each lease contract may have some variations, the following are common stipulations:

Responsibility for Damage:

Lessees are typically responsible for any damage to the vehicle, including the windshield, during the term of the lease.
If damage occurs, it must be repaired to ensure that the vehicle remains in acceptable condition when returned at the end of the lease term.
Damage that is deemed excessive or beyond normal wear and tear (e.g., cracks, chips, or shattered windshields) might result in additional fees.

Authorized Repairs:

Toyota leases generally require the use of authorized repair shops for any repairs or replacements to ensure that the vehicle’s warranty is not voided.
Texas Reliable Auto Glass could be an authorized repair center, depending on the agreements with the leasing company or the specifics of the Toyota lease.

Windshield Repair or Replacement Coverage:

Some Toyota lease agreements may include windshield repair coverage, which can cover minor chips or cracks that can be fixed without a full replacement.
For major damage, the lessee may have to pay out of pocket or submit a claim to their insurance provider.

End-of-Lease Inspection:

At the end of the lease, a vehicle inspection is performed. If the windshield has significant damage or is not properly repaired, the lessee may face penalties or be required to pay for repairs.

If the windshield is damaged during the lease, it’s essential to have it repaired promptly to avoid penalties.

Common Policies Related to Damage and Repairs for Toyota Lease Vehicles

Some typical repair-related policies for leased Toyotas include:

Wear and Tear: Minor chips and scratches are often considered normal wear and tear, but anything that impairs visibility or causes structural damage (e.g., large cracks or shattered windshields) is typically considered beyond wear and tear.
Insurance Coverage: Many lease agreements require lessees to maintain comprehensive insurance coverage that includes windshield damage.
Replacement vs Repair:
- For minor chips or cracks (typically smaller than 3 inches), repair may be an option. Toyota may even have repair partnerships for this kind of minor damage.
- Replacement is necessary for larger cracks or shattered glass, which compromises safety and the integrity of the vehicle.
Return Condition: The lease contract will typically require the vehicle to be returned in a condition that meets Toyota’s standards for normal wear and tear. A cracked or broken windshield at return could result in repair charges.

Average Cost of Windshield Replacement for Leased Toyotas

The cost of windshield replacement varies depending on factors such as the specific model of Toyota, the type of glass (heated, acoustic, etc.), and the geographical location. However, here are some typical figures:

Standard Windshield Replacement: The cost for replacing a standard Toyota windshield can range from $250 to $600, depending on the model and type of glass used.
Advanced Technology Glass: If the Toyota has advanced features like rain sensors, heating elements, or heads-up displays, the cost of windshield replacement could rise to $800 to $1,200.
Insurance Coverage: If the lease includes comprehensive insurance or the lessee has personal auto insurance that covers glass damage, they might only need to pay the deductible, which could range from $100 to $500.
Out-of-Pocket Payment: If you don’t have insurance coverage for glass replacement, the cost will generally fall within the range mentioned earlier. It’s important to check with Toyota or your leasing company to understand how this is handled in your specific agreement.

Volvo Lease Windshield Replacement

Replacing a windshield on a leased Volvo involves several steps and considerations. Here’s an overview of what you should know:

Check Your Lease Agreement

Responsibility for Repairs: Most leases require you to keep the vehicle in good condition, including handling necessary repairs such as windshield damage. However, the specifics may vary based on your lease terms.
Excessive Wear: If the windshield has significant damage or cracks, replacing it is typically necessary to avoid excessive wear charges at the end of the lease.

Insurance Coverage

Comprehensive Coverage: If your Volvo is covered by comprehensive insurance, windshield replacement is often covered with a deductible. This depends on your insurance provider and policy.
Zero Deductible Option: Some insurance policies offer zero-deductible windshield replacements, making the process simpler and more affordable.

Replacement Options

Authorized Volvo Dealership: You can choose to have the windshield replaced by a Volvo dealer. This ensures that OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are used, which might be a requirement for your lease agreement.
Third-Party Service Providers: You may also consider using a reputable third-party glass replacement service. Many of these services offer mobile windshield replacement, so they can come to your location to do the work.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Glass: While Volvo may prefer or recommend using OEM glass for warranty reasons, third-party services sometimes use aftermarket glass, which can be cheaper but might affect warranty claims or the vehicle’s resale value.

Cost of Windshield Replacement

OEM Parts: Replacing a windshield with OEM parts at a dealership tends to be more expensive. The cost typically ranges between $400 and $1,000, depending on your Volvo model and location.
Aftermarket Glass: If you go with aftermarket glass, the cost could be lower, typically in the range of $200 to $500, depending on the provider.

End of Lease Considerations

If you’re nearing the end of your lease, ensure the windshield replacement is done before turning the car back in. A cracked or damaged windshield could result in penalties or fees.
Keep Documentation: If you go through insurance or an authorized repair service, keep all receipts and documentation to avoid potential issues at the end of the lease term.

Lease-End Inspection

Before returning the car, a lease-end inspection will typically check for any damage to the vehicle. This could include evaluating the windshield. If any damage is found, you may be charged for repair or replacement.

If you’re leasing a vehicle and need a windshield replacement, Texas Reliable Auto Glass is here to help! Whether your windshield has a chip, crack, or is completely shattered, we provide fast, reliable, and affordable replacement services that comply with your lease requirements.

Why Choose Us?

OEM Glass Options: We offer both OEM and high-quality aftermarket glass to suit your needs.
Mobile Service: We can come to you, saving you time and hassle.
Fast Turnaround: We understand the urgency of maintaining your leased vehicle in perfect condition.