Understand The Auto Glass Basics Before Getting Your Vehicle Glass Repaired

The auto glass replacement is dreaded by most of the car owners and the best way to avoid high costs is to understand the entire process. We are explaining the basic things you must keep in mind before getting your vehicle glass repaired.

The things you must check for when looking for auto glass shops

·         You can check for the car glass shops online and by phone check for the best deal or compare the warranty policies on the glass.   For choosing the best shop you can also ask for recommendations from friends, family or people you trust.      Also check the current license of the glass shop and you can check the reviews of a particular shop in your area.   Ensure the shop honors your vehicle’s warranty. Select the shop which displays the certification such as Automotive Services excellence seal. These certifications indicate that some/all the technicians meet the basic standards of competence and knowledge in particular technical areas.     Also confirm if the technician or shop has experience in working on the make and model of your vehicle.

 

Understanding the glass charges

It is very important to understand how the shop prices work before you arrange for the glass work to be performed on your vehicle. Few shops charge a flat rate for labor on glass work and the rate is based on estimate of the time required to complete glass work. Other shops charge on the basis of the actual time spent by the technician on the auto glass.

If an expensive or complicated glass is required in your vehicle you can consider getting a second opinion. Some shops also charge for the diagnostic time to identify which components need to be replaced, so you can check how much they will charge if you want to get the work performed elsewhere. The shops which perform only diagnostic work do not sell parts or perform glass on your vehicle. They give their opinion on which glass are necessary.

Written Estimate

Always ask for a written estimate before getting the work done. The written estimate must include following:

1) It should mention the conditions of the glass, the parts that are needed and anticipated labor charges. It is necessary to get a signed copy of written estimate.

2) The written estimate must also state that the shop will contact you and take your approval before they perform any work exceeding a specified amount of money and time.

The Classification of parts that need to be glassed/ Replaced

Parts that need to be glassed or replaced are classified as:

1) New parts – These parts are made either by the vehicle manufacturer or independent company and made to original manufacturer’s specifications. The prices and quality of these parts may vary and as per the State orders the glass shops need to inform you if they are not using original spare parts in the glass replacement.

2) Rebuilt or remanufactured parts – These parts have been restored or reconditioned to sound working condition. Several manufacturers offer warranty on the replacement parts however the labor to replace the parts is not covered.

3) Salvage parts – These include the used parts taken from other vehicle without any changes. These parts may be the only source of some items and their reliability is not fully guaranteed.

What you need after the work is completed

Once the work is completed it is necessary to get completed glass order which describes the work done. Each glass, part supplied, cost of each part and labor charges must be listed in the glass order. The vehicle’s odometer reading when you brought in the vehicle and when the glass was completed must also be mentioned. Also ask for all the replaced parts.

The consequences of postponement of maintenance

If you ignore maintenance it can lead to issues with specific parts or an entire system can fail as many parts of your vehicle are interrelated. In case simple routine maintenance such as changing the oil or checking the coolant is neglected, it can lead to poor fuel economy and unreliability.  This may also result in costly breakdowns and can also make your warranty invalid.

The maintenance guidelines that you must follow

In order to avoid the costly glass follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule mentioned in the owner’s manual. Few glass shops have their own schedules for maintenance that require more frequent servicing than the recommendations of the manufacturer. You can ask the auto glass shops why they recommend service beyond the recommended schedule.

The warranties and service contracts applicable to vehicle glass

Ensure that you understand what is covered under the warranty and get it in writing as there is no standard warranty on glass. 

Choosing the best technician.

In Salt Lake City the auto glass replacement shop that I use is:  ·         

 Salt Lake City Windshield Replacement & Repair, 299 South Main Street Suite #1300 Salt Lake City, 
UT 84111  (801) 407-9955  http://saltlakecitywindshieldreplacement.com/

Warranties

These may be subject to limitations such as time, mileage, deductibles and special procedures required to obtain reimbursement. You can check for the warranty rights from the State Attorney General or local consumer protection agency.

Service Contracts

Several automobile dealers sell optional contracts known as service contracts which may be issued by vehicle manufacturers/ independent companies. All service contracts are different and the prices vary. The prices can be negotiated and to help decide if you want to purchase a service contract consider following:

·         The cost of the service contract.

·         The glass it will cover.

·         The deductibles.

·         Where the glass will be performed.

·         Check the procedures to file claims such as prior authorization for specific glass.

·         You may also need to check if the glass costs are paid directly by the company to the car glass shops or you will get the reimbursement after you pay for the cost.

How to resolve the disputes related to your vehicle glass

In case of any disputes with the auto glass it is better to document all transactions and experiences with dates, times, expenses as well as the names of individuals with whom you dealt. It is better to talk to the shop owner first and in case it does not work contact the Attorney General or consumer protection agency in your area for help. These offices may provide you information on alternative dispute resolution in the community. You also have an option to file a claim directly in the small claims court. You do not need any attorney for this procedure.