What's Included in a Windshield Replacement Quote?
A complete breakdown of every component in a windshield replacement quote -- what should be included, what often gets added as a surprise, and how to spot padding charges.
The Six Components of a Complete Quote
A transparent windshield replacement quote has six components. Some should always be included in the base price. Others -- most notably ADAS calibration -- are frequently excluded, creating a "surprise" charge that inflates your final bill.
Understanding each component lets you compare quotes fairly and avoid providers who use a low base price to get you in the door, then pad the invoice with add-ons.
Windshield Glass
The windshield itself is the largest cost component. Price depends heavily on glass type (OEM, OEE, or aftermarket) and your specific vehicle. Luxury and European vehicles require specialized glass that costs significantly more.
What this covers:
- OEM glass: Made by the vehicle's original manufacturer -- highest cost, guaranteed fit
- OEE glass: Same factory as OEM, different branding -- best value for quality
- Aftermarket: Third-party manufactured -- lowest cost, variable quality
What to watch for
If the quote doesn't specify glass type, you're likely getting the cheapest aftermarket option. Always ask.
Professional Installation Labor
Skilled labor to safely remove the old windshield, prepare the frame, apply urethane adhesive, set the new glass, and ensure a proper seal. This should always be included in the base quote.
What this covers:
- Removal and disposal of old windshield
- Frame preparation and cleaning
- Urethane adhesive application
- New windshield installation and alignment
- Quality check for seal integrity
What to watch for
Some providers list "shop supplies" or "materials fee" as separate charges. These should be part of the labor cost.
ADAS Calibration
If your vehicle has a forward-facing camera behind the windshield (standard on most 2018+ vehicles), the camera system must be recalibrated after windshield replacement. This is not optional -- it's required for your safety systems to function correctly.
What this covers:
- Static calibration: Done with specialized targets in a controlled environment
- Dynamic calibration: Done by driving at specific speeds on marked roads
- Some vehicles require both static and dynamic calibration
- Required for lane departure, auto-braking, adaptive cruise, and other ADAS features
What to watch for
This is the #1 hidden cost. Many providers quote without calibration, then add $250+ after the work is done. ALWAYS ask: "Does this quote include ADAS calibration?"
Mobile Service
A mobile technician comes to your home, office, or wherever your vehicle is parked. This saves you a trip to a shop and waiting around. Quality mobile providers include this in the total price.
What this covers:
- Technician travels to your location with all equipment
- Full replacement done on-site (takes 45-90 minutes)
- Same quality as in-shop installation
- You continue your day while they work
What to watch for
Some providers advertise "free mobile service" but add a travel fee, fuel surcharge, or convenience charge. Ask if mobile service changes the total price.
Warranty
A warranty should cover both the glass itself (defects, delamination, distortion) and the installation work (leaks, wind noise, seal failure). The industry gold standard is a lifetime warranty.
What this covers:
- Lifetime warranty: Best protection -- covers glass and labor for as long as you own the vehicle
- Limited warranty: Typically 1-3 years, may exclude certain failure types
- Glass-only warranty: Covers manufacturing defects but not installation problems
- No warranty: A serious red flag -- the provider doesn't trust their own work
What to watch for
Read the warranty terms. Some "lifetime" warranties have so many exclusions they're practically useless. Ask: "What specifically does the warranty NOT cover?"
Insurance Claim Handling
Direct billing means the provider handles all insurance paperwork, files the claim on your behalf, and collects payment directly from your insurer. You only pay your deductible (if any).
What this covers:
- Provider verifies your coverage and deductible
- Files the claim with your insurance company
- Bills the insurer directly -- you don't front the money
- Handles any follow-up documentation
- In Colorado, comprehensive claims typically don't raise your rates
What to watch for
If a provider asks you to pay in full and file your own claim, that's extra work for you and means they may not have proper insurance vendor relationships.
Common "Junk Fees" to Question
These are charges that sometimes appear on invoices that are either padding or should have been included in the original quote.
Shop supplies fee
$15 - $50Should be included in labor
Environmental/disposal fee
$10 - $25Part of the service -- padding charge
Fuel surcharge
$15 - $40Should be part of mobile service fee
After-hours fee
$25 - $75Legitimate if you specifically request off-hours service
Rush/priority fee
$25 - $50Legitimate only if you request expedited scheduling
Credit card processing fee
2% - 4%Common but indicates tight margins
What a Good Quote Looks Like
A transparent provider gives you a single price that includes everything. Here's what that looks like in practice.
Transparent Quote
No additional fees. What you see is what you pay.
Hidden-Cost Quote
Quoted $275 but costs $650. Aftermarket glass. 1-year warranty.
How Insurance Affects What You Pay
If you have comprehensive auto insurance, your windshield replacement is typically covered. In Colorado, many policies include full glass coverage with $0 deductible for windshield replacement specifically.
When insurance is paying, the total cost matters less to you directly -- but you should still care about what's included. Your insurer may cover the replacement, but if the provider uses cheap glass or skips calibration, you're the one driving an unsafe vehicle.
You have the right to choose your provider regardless of your insurer's recommendations. Learn more about your rights from the Colorado Division of Insurance.
Get a Quote with Everything Included
One price. Everything included. OEM-quality glass, ADAS calibration, mobile service, lifetime warranty, and direct insurance billing. No hidden fees. No surprises.