Subaru EyeSight Windshield Replacement Cost

Subaru EyeSight windshield replacement costs $500 to $1,000 or more, making it one of the most expensive mainstream vehicles for glass replacement. The high cost comes from EyeSight's dual-camera system mounted behind the windshield, which requires specialized calibration after replacement. Subaru recommends OEM glass for EyeSight-equipped vehicles because the camera system is extremely sensitive to glass thickness and optical properties. Calibration alone runs $300 to $500 because EyeSight requires both static and dynamic calibration performed in sequence. Models affected include the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Legacy, and Impreza from 2013 onward. Colorado drivers with comprehensive insurance typically pay nothing out of pocket because the state zero-deductible glass law covers the entire cost including calibration.

Subaru's EyeSight system is one of the most respected driver-assistance technologies in the industry. It has earned top safety ratings and has been credited with reducing rear-end collisions by up to 85 percent according to Subaru's own data. But that safety technology comes with a significant cost implication when your windshield needs to be replaced. EyeSight- equipped Subaru windshield replacements typically cost $500 to $1,000+, compared to $250 to $500 for a vehicle without ADAS.

What Is Subaru EyeSight?

EyeSight is Subaru's proprietary advanced driver-assistance system that uses two stereo cameras mounted on either side of the rearview mirror, facing forward through the windshield. These cameras work together to create a three-dimensional view of the road, enabling features like:

• Pre-collision braking and throttle management
• Adaptive cruise control with lane centering
• Lane departure warning and lane sway warning
• Pre-collision steering assist (newer models)
• Lead vehicle start alert

EyeSight has been available on Subaru vehicles since 2013 and is now standard on virtually every Subaru model including the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Legacy, Impreza, Ascent, and WRX.

Cost Breakdown by Model

Why EyeSight Calibration Costs More

Subaru's dual-camera EyeSight system is more complex to calibrate than single-camera ADAS systems used by Honda, Toyota, and most other manufacturers. Here is why:

• Dual camera alignment: Both cameras must be precisely aligned relative to each other and to the vehicle. Single-camera systems only require one alignment point.
• Proprietary calibration targets: Subaru requires specific calibration target boards that are different from the generic targets used for many other brands. Not every shop has them.
• Strict environmental requirements: Calibration must be performed on a level surface, in controlled lighting, with the vehicle positioned at exact distances from the target. Some shops struggle to meet these requirements consistently.
• Subaru-specific diagnostic tools: The calibration process requires access to Subaru's SSM (Subaru Select Monitor) diagnostic software or equivalent third-party tools that support EyeSight calibration.

Does Subaru Require OEM Glass?

Subaru officially recommends OEM glass for EyeSight-equipped vehicles. Their position is that the optical properties of OEM glass are verified to work correctly with the EyeSight cameras, while aftermarket glass has not been tested by Subaru.

In practice, many reputable auto glass shops successfully install quality aftermarket windshields on EyeSight vehicles and perform calibration without issues. The key is using a premium aftermarket brand (Pilkington, PGW) that has the correct optical properties in the camera viewing zone. Ask your installer about their experience with EyeSight calibration on aftermarket glass.

Colorado Subaru Owners: You May Pay $0

Subaru is enormously popular in Colorado -- the state consistently ranks among the top markets for Subaru sales. If you have comprehensive auto insurance in Colorado, you likely have zero-deductible glass coverage that covers the full cost of replacement and calibration. The entire $500 to $1,000 bill is covered by insurance with $0 out of pocket.

Choosing an Installer for EyeSight Vehicles

Not every auto glass shop is equipped to handle EyeSight calibration. When choosing an installer, ask these questions:

• Do you have Subaru EyeSight calibration targets?
• How many EyeSight calibrations have you performed?
• Do you use SSM or an equivalent diagnostic tool for calibration?
• Is calibration included in the quoted price, or separate?
• What happens if calibration fails -- is there an additional charge?

A shop that specializes in or has significant experience with Subaru vehicles will save you time and ensure the calibration is done correctly on the first attempt. Use our cost calculator to estimate your specific Subaru model's replacement cost.