The cost of windshield chip repair ranges from $0 (with insurance) to $60 to $100 per chip (without insurance). This is a fraction of the cost of a full windshield replacement, which typically runs $250 to $800 or more. Here is a detailed breakdown of pricing, what affects cost, and how to maximize your insurance benefits.
Chip Repair Pricing at a Glance
| Damage Type | Cash Price | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Single chip (< quarter) | $60–$80 | $0 |
| Multiple chips (2–3) | $80–$120 | $0 |
| Short crack (< 3 inches) | $75–$100 | $0 |
| Long crack (3–6 inches) | $90–$120 | $0 |
| Complex break (bull's-eye, star) | $70–$100 | $0 |
| Full windshield replacement | $250 to $800+ | $0 to $500 deductible |
Why Most Drivers Pay $0
Drivers in Arizona and Colorado benefit from strong glass coverage laws. Arizona requires every auto insurance company operating in the state to offer zero-deductible comprehensive glass coverage (ARS 20-263). Colorado drivers with comprehensive policies are also typically covered for chip repair at little or no cost.
Even without the optional zero-deductible glass add-on, most insurers waive the deductible for chip repair because a $60 repair saves them from paying $500 for a replacement later. Read our full insurance coverage guide for details.
What Affects Repair Cost Without Insurance
If you are paying out of pocket, several factors influence the final price:
- Chip type: Simple bulls-eye chips are the cheapest to repair because they are straightforward. Combination breaks cost more because they require more time and resin.
- Chip size: Larger chips require more resin and more technician time, increasing the cost.
- Number of chips: Most shops offer discounts on additional chips repaired during the same visit. The first chip is the most expensive; each additional chip is typically $15 to $30 less.
- Mobile vs. shop: Mobile repair may include a small convenience fee at some providers, though many shops offer free mobile service to stay competitive.
Chip Repair vs. Replacement: The Cost Math
The financial case for repairing chips early is overwhelming:
- Repair today: $0 with insurance, or $60–$80 out of pocket. Takes 20–30 minutes.
- Wait until it cracks and needs replacement: $0 to $500 deductible with insurance, or $350 to $800 out of pocket. Takes 2+ hours plus ADAS recalibration ($150 to $400 extra for newer vehicles).
Chip repair claims are so inexpensive for insurers that they have zero impact on your rates. Replacement claims may affect your premium if you have had multiple claims. See our repair vs. replacement decision guide for more.
How to Get the Best Price
- Use your insurance. Call your insurer or have the repair shop check your coverage — it takes about 5 minutes and the repair is almost certainly covered at $0.
- Repair multiple chips in one visit. If you have two or three chips, getting them all done at once saves money compared to separate visits.
- Act fast. A chip repaired within 48 hours is a $70 fix. The same chip that spreads into a crack is a $500 replacement.
- Ask about cash-pay discounts. Some shops offer a small discount for immediate payment without insurance processing.
For a broader look at repair pricing and what to expect, visit our main chip repair cost page.