Perhaps one of the most underrated parts of a vehicle is its windshield. It is a really important part of a car yet it gets no love. That’s why I decided to write an article dedicated to this underappreciated component.
Particularly, today’s topic is- Chevy Silverado windshield replacement cost. The Silverado is arguably the most popular pickup truck on the planet, and so this topic seemed reasonable to me.
In general, the cost of switching up windshields for a Silverado should never cross 400 dollars. It should better be closer to the 300 dollars mark. Some mechanics do it for under 300 dollars too. However, doing it manually is going to save a pretty penny as well.
Before talking about the price of the Silverado windshield in a little more detail, I would like to cover a few more matters related to this topic:
- The importance of windshields
- How windshields get damaged
- Signs that a windshield needs to be swapped out
Why Are Windshields Important?
The first topic I wanted to cover is just how crucial these glass panels are to a vehicle. They serve three big roles for the driver-
1. Protection
First and foremost, a windshield provides the driver with an extra layer of protection. It does this in a lot of ways. It keeps wind, dust, and rain away from the driver and passengers on journeys. Nothing can get in from the front.
Additionally, it reduces UV radiation. The glass blocks out some of the harmful rays of the sun. The windshield also keeps the airbags in place in the event of a crash.
2. Clear View
Why not opt for a metal sheet over the dashboard? Because a clear view cannot be compromised when driving. The windshield provides just that with its see-through glass body.
Since it also keeps dust and air out of the car, the driver’s concentration and vision are not divided in any way.
3. Structural Integrity
Lastly, the windshield adds to the structure of a car. It strengthens the fortitude as a vehicle. This strong framework helps it stay in one piece even if it is in a mild crash.
What Damages The Windshields?
Now that I’ve proven that a windshield is imperative to the smooth operation of a vehicle, what damages it?
1. Frequent Usage
Time and tide wait for none. This saying is true for windshields as well. Frequent drives mean that the vehicle is exposed to the natural elements a lot more. It may crumble under that pressure.
2. Weather
The heat harms the windshield. In hot nations, windshields tend to last for a shorter period. Extremely cold climates are also not ideal for windshields.
3. Direct Impact
Car accidents do a lot of damage to a vehicle. The windshield is made of glass and so it does not hold up under impact. No matter how sturdy a windshield glass is- it eventually breaks with enough strong impact.
When To Change Windshields?
So, what level of damage determines that a windshield needs replacement? There are 3 clear signs that a replacement is needed-
1. Poor View
The windshield should be crystal clear. Any windshield that fails to provide an unobstructed view of the road is not usable. It needs instant replacement.
2. Leaks
If water finds its way through the windshield when it rains, then there are some leakages in the windshield. Sometimes, this can be repaired. However, most of the time, this elicits a total change.
3. Physical Cracks
No matter how small the crack or sign of physical damage is, it is wise to immediately get the windshield changed. This crack can develop into a bigger one in no time.
Cost Of Changing Windshields On A Chevy Silverado
Changing a windshield is a necessary task at a certain point and luckily, it isn’t an expensive process. The real cost lies in the component itself as most repair shops don’t charge high installation costs here. The reason behind that is- there is a very simple DIY method of doing that. I will cover that method in the FAQ section.
So, what does the total cost look like? Most popular and experienced auto repair shops will charge well over $300. Some even demand around $400. However, there are a few that can get it done for under $300.
It is important to note that price is not the only factor to consider. Saving money during this repair may cost one in the future. Always go to a trustworthy mechanic for these installations.
Is The Cost Of Replacing Windshields For Other Vehicles Similar?
Yes. Changing the windshield isn’t a very complicated task. So, the labor cost is minimal. The difference lies in the cost of the windshield itself. Fortunately, these don’t vary much either.
Where Can I Purchase A Windshield?
The only real option to change a windshield is to visit an auto repair shop. Windshields are not sold online. However, it is possible to get a quotation for how much the process will cost online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally speaking, windshields last a very long time. There should not even be a discussion about it up until at least 5 years. The 3 factors I covered that damage the windshield can shorten this time though.
Given the small price tag, it seems like a good idea. However, it is not the wisest purchase for those looking to swap vehicles soon. It is money down the drain, as this car won’t be in use for long whereas windshields last for a long time.
It is not a difficult process at all. With the right tools, the task can be done in less than an hour. This visual guide should help. The real challenge is finding a vendor who just sells windshields and doesn’t install them!
A light tint is acceptable but darker ones are illegal in most states. A visible light transmission (VLT) of more than 80% is a must. It’s not just to meet legal standards- darker tints hamper vision greatly.
Final Words
The windshield is a crucial part of any care and therefore, it deserves a lot of care and attention. A lot of people forget to include it in their car maintenance routine. If things get worse for wear, Chevy Silverado windshield replacement is not exorbitant, so you can easily make the switch. Best of luck on maintaining a solid vehicle.
