Why do windshields cost so much?

I think there are two main reasons why the windshield is so expensive. One is the size of the windshield glass and the other is the UV and Heat absorbing properties of the glass. The glass used in all of the windows of the Prius is designed to reduce heat transfer and block UV rays.

**At least Toyota didn't install the Visiodrive like in the new Citroen C3! I could not even imagine the cost of replacing that windshield!!!

 

The glass isn't flat at all. It's a complex shape, and is actually two pieces of glass bonded with a layer of plastic to keep the glass from splintering when it breaks.

 

If the chip is small enough it can be repaired for about fifty dollars. If you can cover the chip with a quarter it is small enough. Any windshield shop can tell you right off.

 

This is interesting. You have to pay the full price of windscreen repair? The vast majority of comprehensive insurance policies (about 75% of policies are comprehensive) in the UK cover windscreen replacement - you pay a £50 excess and it does not affect your no claims discount. I once had 3 replacements in 3 months! Repairs are typically free of charge.

It's surprising how insurance varies between countries, even when the same company is providing the policies.

 

Good point to bring up comprehensive insurance. We have that in the United States too. Many people (like me) get comprehensive insurance with "full glass coverage", meaning there is no deductible (excess) for glass repairs.

I wonder if David has comprehensive insurance (most people would with a newish car).

 

My understanding is that if the chip is in line of sight in front of the driver then it can't be repaired and the screen has to be replaced. Not sure if that is just a UK thing.

 

No, in the US a chip can be repaired using different methods, I think NOVUS is the best. The type that use the ultrviolet light seem to come out the best. Most insurance also will cover the full cost of the repair. CU David you should see if there are any NOVUS repair shops by you.

Also what is the visiodrive windshield on the Citroen's?

 

A lot of people, including myself, do not trust insurance company claims about your rates not going up, and simply will not make a claim for any reason short of a catastrophic accident. They don't tell you in the commercials that you usually pay a bit more premium for "forgiveness", or that you might lose other discounts (e.g., the base rate won't change, but maybe you'll lose your "good driver" discount). Sometimes just getting a traffic ticket will count as your one pardon. As usual, you end up paying either way.

You may have better consumer protection laws in the UK.. here there is almost always some loophole that still lets them do whatever they want. Yeah, you can always change companies, but they make that hard because most discounts require some length of time with the insurer, and they also have discounts if you get both auto/home insurance, etc.

 

off main topic, but here is a shot of the C3 Citroen windshield, called a Zenith Windshield in this piece, nice futuristic look to it.
Frankfurt 2009: Meet the 2010 Citroen C3 — Autoblog

Actually I read more, and it is called visiodrive in the body
'Visiodrive' – the word created to best describe the new Citroën C3 – is born out of this unique windscreen, which is yet another example of Citroën's use of 'Creative Technologie'. The screen helps to create a bright and pleasurable cabin environment for driver and passengers alike – improving visibility, road safety, driving pleasure, ambience and the overall feeling of spaciousness.

another shot--
http://www.netcarshow.com/citroen/2010-c3/800x600/wallpaper_08.htm
very impressive I think.

 

It was $350 for a new windshield for my 2006 when a wild turkey (bird, not the booze) bounced off of it from the local windshield place in Sturgeon Bay, WI. $800 seems awfully high.

 

As I said in another post, I paid $160 for a new aftermarket windshield installed in my 2006. That was 10 months ago. It is holding up fine. The particular installer, I would not recommend, however, I know that others I have used are good, and they asked me for $225, so $800 is dealer inflation.