A cracked or chipped windshield is a common issue for Ontario drivers, especially with all the gravel, road salt, and unpredictable weather. However, it’s often difficult to understand what your insurance will truly pay for. So, how do you know if your insurance covers windshield replacement? In this article, you’ll learn all about coverage, what to check in your policy and how to file a claim.
Types of Windshield Damage
Different types of damage can affect your windshield. Some can be repaired quickly, while others may need full replacement. The table below gives a quick overview:
| Type of Damage | Description | Repair or Replace? | Insurance Coverage |
| Chip | Small spot from flying debris like stones | Often repairable | May be covered with no deductible |
| Crack | Line that can spread from a chip or impact | May require replacement | Usually covered if you have comprehensive |
| Ding | Minor surface damage | Often repairable | Sometimes covered |
| Missing Glass | Portion of glass broken off due to strong impact | Requires replacement | Covered under comprehensive |
| Pitting | Small craters from long-term wear (sand, dust) | Not usually repairable | Typically not covered (wear and tear) |
| Scratch | Surface marks from debris or vandalism | May be repairable | May be covered depending on cause and policy |
| ADAS-Related Damage | Affects sensors in windshields of newer vehicles | Replacement + recalibration | Covered, but may increase repair cost |
Does Insurance Cover a Cracked Windshield?
Insurance does pay for cracked windshield damage—but only if your policy includes the right type of coverage. In Ontario, basic auto insurance is required by law, but it doesn’t always cover your own vehicle, especially for issues like a cracked windshield. Let’s break down which coverage types may apply.
Mandatory Auto Insurance Coverage in Ontario
- Third-Party Liability: Covers damage or injury you cause to others. It does not cover damage to your own windshield.1
- Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD): This covers your vehicle if you’re not at fault in a collision but only under specific conditions.2 Windshield cracks from non-collision events—such as flying stones—are usually not covered under DCPD.
- Accident Benefits: Pays for medical treatment and income replacement if you’re injured. It does not apply to vehicle repairs like windshield damage.1
- Physical Damage Coverage (if included): Some provinces may include this in their minimum coverage. In Ontario, it depends on your specific policy. Windshield cracks are not guaranteed to be covered here.3
Optional Auto Insurance Coverage
To protect your own vehicle from a wider range of events, many Ontario drivers choose optional coverages. These additions are especially important when it comes to windshield damage, theft, or weather-related events.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Covers damage from non-collision events, including flying debris, vandalism, and theft. This is the coverage that typically applies to cracked windshields.
- Collision Insurance: Covers your car if it’s damaged in a crash or rollover. However, it does not cover windshield cracks caused by flying stones or other non-collision events.
- Specified Perils: Covers only specific risks listed in your policy, such as fire, theft, or hail. If the crack was caused by a listed peril, you may be covered. Otherwise, no.
- All Perils: Combines both collision and comprehensive coverage. This covers cracked windshields as long as the cause isn’t excluded from your policy.
- Optional Endorsements: Add-ons like full glass coverage may reduce or eliminate your deductible for windshield repairs or replacements. Some policies allow you to remove glass coverage to lower your premium.
TL;DR: Windshield Coverage at a Glance
This table provides a quick comparison of how each type of insurance coverage applies to cracked windshields:
| Coverage Type | Covers Cracked Windshield? | Notes |
| Third-Party Liability | No | Covers others, not your own vehicle. |
| Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD) | Rarely | Only in specific no-fault collision cases. |
| Accident Benefits | No | Medical coverage only. |
| Comprehensive | Yes | Covers cracks from flying debris, vandalism, and other non-collision events. |
| Collision | No | Covers collisions, not non-collision-related cracks. |
| Specified Perils | Maybe | Depends on whether the cause is listed in the policy. |
| All Perils | Yes | Broad coverage, including most causes of cracked windshields. |
| Full Glass Endorsement | Yes | May eliminate or reduce your deductible for glass repairs. |
| Commercial Auto (if applicable) | Maybe | Depends on how the vehicle is used and what’s included in the policy. |
How Do I Know If My Insurance Covers Windshield Replacement?
To find out if your insurance covers windshield replacement, check if you have comprehensive or all perils coverage. Read your insurance documents to see if glass damage is mentioned and whether any endorsements apply. Some policies offer full glass coverage with lower or no deductibles, while others may exclude debris-related damage. Knowing what’s in your policy is the first step.
If anything is unclear, contact your insurance provider or agent. They can explain your coverage, any deductibles, and whether a claim makes sense. Damage from external events, such as a rock, is usually covered, while wear and tear, such as pitting, is not.
Also, consider the repair cost—if it’s close to your deductible, paying out of pocket may be better. A quick call can save you from guessing.
Filing a Windshield Claim
If your windshield is cracked or chipped and you want to file a claim, follow these steps to make the process smoother:
- Notify Your Insurer: Call your insurance company as soon as you notice the damage. They’ll open a claim and give you the adjuster’s contact info.
- Document the Damage: Take clear photos and note the time, date, and location. Record any other damage to your vehicle.
- Check Your Coverage and Deductible: See if you have comprehensive or all perils coverage. Ask if a deductible applies or if it’s waived for glass repairs.
- Explore Repair Options: Your insurer may refer you to a preferred shop, often with mobile service available. This can streamline the process and reduce costs.
- Confirm the Cost: Get a written estimate before work begins. The shop will bill your insurer directly and tell you what you’ll owe if anything.
- Get the Repair Done: Minor chips are quick to fix. Full replacements take longer, but most shops, such as Auto Glass Zone, handle insurance paperwork for you.
A Note on Premium Increases
One glass claim generally won’t raise your premiums in Ontario. However, multiple claims in a short time can lead to higher rates. If your premium does go up, it might be a good time to compare quotes from other insurers.
Commonly Asked Questions About Windshield Damage Insurance Coverage
Should I use insurance to replace my windshield?
It depends on your deductible and the cost of the replacement. If the repair cost is lower than or close to your deductible, paying out of pocket might make more sense. However, if you have full glass coverage or a low deductible, using your insurance can save you money.
Does car insurance cover windshield replacement?
Yes—if you have comprehensive or all perils coverage. Basic auto insurance in Ontario does not include this. Check your policy or contact your provider to confirm.
A rock hit my windshield. Will insurance cover it?
If you have comprehensive coverage, damage from a rock hitting your windshield is usually covered. Some insurers even waive the deductible for minor repairs. It’s best to report the incident promptly and ask your provider for details.
Is a chipped windshield covered by insurance?
Yes, chipped windshields are typically covered under comprehensive or all perils coverage. Many insurers will repair small chips at no cost to prevent them from spreading into cracks. Always confirm the specifics with your insurer.
Are windshields covered under warranty?
Vehicle warranties usually don’t cover windshield damage unless it’s due to a manufacturing defect. Damage from road debris or accidents is generally excluded. In those cases, insurance coverage—if available—is your best option.
Final Thoughts
Windshield damage can happen quickly, but how you handle it makes all the difference. Before filing a claim, take a few minutes to review your coverage, understand your costs, and weigh the pros and cons. In many cases, quick action can save you money and hassle. If you’re ever unsure, speaking to your insurance provider is the best way to avoid surprises.
How We Can Help
Auto Glass Zone is here to make the process easy if you’re dealing with a cracked or chipped windshield. We work with major insurance providers and can guide you through your coverage, deductible, and repair options. Learn more about our expert windshield repair in Hamilton and book your service today.
References
- Financial Consumer Agency of Canada. “Car Insurance.” Canada.ca, 30 Oct. 2023, www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/insurance/car.html#toc1.
- ThinkInsure. “Direct Compensation Property Damage | What Is DCPD Coverage?” ThinkInsure Ltd., www.thinkinsure.ca/insurance-help-centre/direct-compensation-property-damage.html.
“Types of Auto Coverage.” IBC Helps You Know Your Auto Coverage & Options, www.ibc.ca/insurance-basics/auto/types-of-auto-coverage.
