DIY Windshield Replacement

[MrGiggles]

I've had my 94 Corolla for about 6 months now and haven't had a single issue with it except for the stupid plastic panel underneath falling off (one of my "adventures") until now.

A couple weeks ago a crack developed from a stone chip in the middle of my windshield. It was about 8 inches long and I was going to get it fixed. There was also a smaller crack in the bottom corner of the windshield but that one wasn't as big a priority as the one in the middle because it's not in my field of vision.

Well one cold morning I left the car running and the front defrost on. By the time I got back I was greeted with that damn small crack in the corner spread almost all the way across the windshield. At this point I figure the windshield is done so it will have to be replaced. In my state annual inspections are required so I can't just drive it as is.

My questions are what a new windshield will cost, and whether I can do it myself or will have to pay someone to do it. I have liability insurance so I can't go that route. I am mechanically inclined but I've never explored windshield replacement before.

Thanks.

[speedy25]

See if you have windshield replacement as a part of your cars insurance.

At best you should let someone else do the job since it gets REAL expensive if you damage it during installation. Also since "professionals" screw it up with putting down adhesive incorrectly and not centering the windshield properly, you can get it wrong as a newby too.

-SP

[g2nick]

the windshield is actually structial. Ive done them before, but have had training. They are a pain to cut out, even with the power tools to do it. Not to mention the nightmare water leaks youll run into if done incorrectly.

[Ludapower]

The installation isn't really expensive, the windshield itself is. It's definitely worth having it done by a shop.

You should also check with your insurance company. I had a $100 deductible on my Prelude to replace my windshield. It ended up costing $600 but I only had to pay the $100.

[Kiwi-Corolla]

I would definitely rather spend a bit of money and get it done by a professional. I've heard horror stories of improper window installations in the past, so it's best to get it done by someone who does it every day. That way you'll know the window isn't going to leak. Plus, you can always take it back to them if anything does happen to go wrong.

[MrGiggles]

I see what you guys are saying. Maybe I can find a windshield from the local scrapyard or something.

Like I said I have liability insurance and I'm pretty sure it doesn't cover stuff like this.

[speedy25]

Start looking around for another insurance agency. State Farm offers windshield replacement with liablility and I bet some others do as well.

-SP

[PatrickGSR94]

I just got a new windshield installed on my Integra for $175 + tax installed on-site at my office. Guy comes out and does it. Windshield is PPG glass and looks great. Corolla would probably be similar. I bought all new perimeter moldings myself from Honda (mine were trashed and didn't fit right) and he installed them for me also.

[MrGiggles]

Originally Posted by PatrickGSR94

I just got a new windshield installed on my Integra for $175 + tax installed on-site at my office. Guy comes out and does it. Windshield is PPG glass and looks great. Corolla would probably be similar. I bought all new perimeter moldings myself from Honda (mine were trashed and didn't fit right) and he installed them for me also.

Really? Insurance didn't pay anything? That sounds really good. I'll have to look into that. I have until Sept. before my inspection is up.

I did check into my insurance. They offer glass replacement but they deductible was really high.