Windshield Replacement Warranty Guide: What Is Covered?

Windshield replacement warranties typically cover two things: defects in the glass itself (manufacturer warranty) and issues with the installation workmanship (installer warranty). Most reputable auto glass companies offer a lifetime warranty on installation that covers leaks, wind noise, and adhesive failure for as long as you own the vehicle. Glass manufacturer warranties cover defects like delamination, distortion, and stress cracks not caused by impact, usually for one to five years. OEM glass carries the vehicle manufacturer's warranty terms, while aftermarket glass carries the glass manufacturer's warranty. Common warranty exclusions include damage from new impacts, improper aftermarket tinting, and modifications to the windshield area. Always ask for warranty terms in writing before authorizing the work.

After paying $300 to $1,000+ for a windshield replacement, you want to know that the work is guaranteed. Most auto glass companies offer a warranty, but the terms, duration, and coverage vary significantly between installers. Understanding what your warranty covers -- and what it does not -- helps you choose the right installer and protects you if something goes wrong.

Types of Windshield Warranties

There are two distinct warranties that may apply to your windshield replacement:

1. Installer Workmanship Warranty

This warranty is provided by the auto glass company that performed the installation. It covers defects in the installation process, including:

• Leaks: Water or air leaking around the windshield seal
• Wind noise: Whistling or excessive noise caused by an improper seal
• Adhesive failure: The urethane bond failing, causing the windshield to loosen
• Molding or trim issues: Loose or improperly fitted molding
• Rattles: The windshield vibrating or rattling due to installation defects

Installer warranties typically range from 1 year to lifetime. Many reputable companies offer a lifetime warranty on their workmanship, which means they will fix any installation-related issue for as long as you own the vehicle.

2. Glass Manufacturer Warranty

This warranty comes from the glass manufacturer (whether OEM or aftermarket) and covers defects in the glass itself:

• Delamination: The two glass layers separating from the PVB interlayer
• Optical distortion: Waves, ripples, or visual distortion caused by manufacturing defects
• Discoloration: The glass or tint band changing color over time
• Stress cracks: Cracks that appear without any impact, caused by manufacturing flaws

Glass manufacturer warranties typically run 1 to 5 years. OEM glass often carries a longer warranty than aftermarket glass.

What Warranties Do NOT Cover

Both installer and manufacturer warranties exclude damage caused by:

• Road debris impact: A rock hitting and cracking the new windshield is not a warranty issue -- it is new damage
• Weather events: Hail, extreme temperature swings, and ice damage are not covered
• Accidents: Collision damage to the windshield is excluded
• Improper use: Damage from pressure washers directed at the windshield edge, or chemical damage from improper cleaning products
• Modifications: Aftermarket tint that causes stress cracks may void the glass warranty

For damage from road debris, hail, or accidents, you would file a new insurance claim for another replacement.

Warranty Comparison by Installer Type

ADAS Calibration Warranty

ADAS calibration is an increasingly important part of windshield replacement, and its warranty coverage varies. Some installers include calibration under their workmanship warranty. Others treat it as a separate service with its own warranty terms. Key questions to ask:

• Is the ADAS calibration warranted? For how long?
• If the calibration fails or produces errors, is the recalibration free?
• Do you provide a calibration report showing the system passed?

A calibration report (printout from the diagnostic tool showing the system was successfully calibrated) is your documentation that the work was done correctly. Ask for one and keep it with your vehicle records.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

When getting quotes for windshield replacement, ask these warranty-related questions:

1. What is the warranty on your workmanship? Is it in writing?
2. What does the warranty cover specifically?
3. How long is the glass manufacturer warranty?
4. Is ADAS calibration included in the warranty?
5. What would void the warranty?
6. If I move or travel, is the warranty honored by other locations?

What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

If you experience a leak, wind noise, rattle, or other issue after windshield replacement:

1. Contact the installer immediately -- most issues are easiest to fix when caught early
2. Document the problem with photos or video
3. Review your warranty terms (check your invoice or the warranty document you received)
4. Give the installer a reasonable opportunity to fix the issue under warranty
5. If the installer is unresponsive, contact your insurance company (if the work was done through insurance) or file a complaint with the BBB or your state's consumer protection office

The Cost of a Good Warranty

A strong warranty is worth paying slightly more for. An installer who offers a lifetime workmanship warranty is demonstrating confidence in their work quality. If the cheapest quote comes with a 90-day warranty and the mid-price quote comes with a lifetime warranty, the mid-price option is almost always the better value. Factor in all the cost variables when comparing quotes, not just the bottom line number.

Bottom Line

Always get your warranty terms in writing before the windshield is installed. Look for a lifetime workmanship warranty and at least a 1-year glass manufacturer warranty. Confirm that ADAS calibration is covered. And keep your warranty documentation with your vehicle records. Use our cost calculator to estimate your replacement cost and then choose an installer based on both price and warranty terms.