Windshield replacement in the Temecula Valley

When a windshield needs replacing instead of repair

A chip smaller than a quarter or a single crack under about 6 inches can usually be repaired for much less. Replace the windshield when:

• The crack is longer than about 6 inches or is still spreading
• The damage reaches the edge of the glass, where it weakens the bond to the frame
• The chip or crack sits in the driver's line of sight
• There are several chips, or the glass is pitted and causes glare at night
• The damage is in front of the camera or sensor area behind the mirror

California Vehicle Code 26710 makes it illegal to drive with a windshield so damaged that it impairs the driver's view. See the cracked windshield law.

What happens at your appointment

1. We confirm the exact glass. Your VIN tells us which windshield your car was built with, including tint band, acoustic layer, heating, heads-up display and the camera or rain-sensor bracket.
2. We protect the car. Fender covers go on, wipers and cowl panel come off.
3. We cut out the old glass and trim the old urethane to a thin, even bead so the new glass bonds properly.
4. We prime and set the new windshield with urethane rated for structural bonding, then reinstall the moldings, cowl and wipers.
5. We tell you the safe drive-away time from the adhesive maker's chart for that day's temperature and humidity.
6. We calibrate the camera if your car has one, and give you the printed result.

Most replacements take about an hour, plus calibration time when it's needed.

Cars with a camera behind the mirror

If your car has lane departure warning, lane keeping, automatic emergency braking or adaptive cruise, there is almost always a camera looking through the windshield. Nearly every manufacturer requires that camera to be calibrated after a windshield replacement, because a lens aimed even slightly off can misjudge where the lane or the car ahead is.

We check your VIN for the factory requirement before we start and tell you in writing whether calibration is needed. Starting January 1, 2027, California's Motor Vehicle Glass Act requires every glass shop to make that disclosure. Learn more on our ADAS calibration page.

Which glass we install

You choose the glass, and we quote each option your car can take. Aftermarket glass, also called OEE (original equipment equivalent), is the lowest price and is made to the same safety standards and fit as the factory part. OEM glass is the dealer-brand part with the automaker's logo and costs more. Where your vehicle offers them, tinted, solar or acoustic glass options also cost more. Some vehicles, especially those with heads-up displays or certain camera systems, work best with OEM glass, and we'll tell you when that's the case. See OEM vs. aftermarket glass.

Insurance or cash, your choice

Windshield replacement is usually covered under the comprehensive part of your auto policy. You pay your comprehensive deductible and the insurer pays the rest. If your deductible is higher than the replacement price, paying cash is often cheaper.

In California you have the right to choose your own glass shop. Your insurer can recommend one, but it cannot require you to use it. We work with every insurance company and help with the claim. Read how glass claims work.

Signs a windshield was installed badly

A good install is quiet, dry and invisible. Call the installer back if you notice any of these in the first weeks:

• Wind noise or whistling at highway speed
• Water at the top of the dash or the headliner after rain or a car wash
• A molding that lifts, gaps or rattles
• A lane assist or camera warning on the dash after the job

Leaks, wind noise and molding problems are covered by our warranty. If a camera warning appears after our install, call us and we'll recheck the calibration.

Mobile replacement anywhere in the valley

We come to you in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, French Valley, Winchester, Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Hemet and Perris at no extra charge. We need a dry, reasonably level spot. If rain is forecast, we'll move your appointment or work under a garage or carport. More about mobile service.