Nothing makes you flinch faster than a rock hitting your windshield while driving. What starts as a tiny chip can quickly spread into a long crack that affects your visibility and compromises your car’s structural safety. When that happens, you’ll need to decide whether to pay for the repair yourself or make an insurance claim. This guide from isure insurance explains everything Ontario drivers need to know about cracked windshield repairs, replacements, and insurance coverage — including costs, deductibles, and when to file a claim.
Assessing Your Cracked Windshield
Before any repairs begin, a technician will inspect the chip or crack to determine if it can be fixed.
- Small chips (under one inch) limited to the outer glass layer can typically be repaired.
- Deeper cracks or those that extend into the inner layer often require complete windshield replacement.
- Cracks within the driver’s line of sight may also need replacement for safety reasons.
- Vehicles equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) — like lane assist, cameras, or automatic braking — require recalibration after replacement.
Today, recalibrating a windshield typically adds $200–$400 to the total repair cost.
Does Car Insurance Cover Windshield Damage in Ontario?
Yes. If you have comprehensive coverage, your policy likely covers windshield repair or replacement. Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle against non-collision damage, including:
- Flying debris or road gravel
- Vandalism or theft
- Falling objects or trees
- Weather-related events (like hail or ice damage)
- Fire or other unexpected events
Many Ontario insurers, including Aviva, Intact, and Economical, now offer zero-deductible glass endorsements — meaning you may pay nothing out-of-pocket for minor chip or crack repairs.
Repair vs. Replacement: What’s Covered
Here’s what drivers in Ontario can expect to pay:
| Type of Damage | Average Cost | ed by Insurance? | Deductible Applies? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small chip repair | $60–$120 | Yes, under comprehensive | Usually $0 |
| Crack repair | $120–$250 | Yes | Usually $0 |
| Windshield replacement (no ADAS) | $400–$800 | Yes | Yes |
| Replacement with ADAS calibration | $900–$1,400 | Yes | Yes |
Did you know? Over 45% of new vehicles sold in Canada in 2025 come equipped with ADAS technology — and most of these systems are built into the windshield, making replacements more expensive than ever. Additionally, approximately 90% of chipped windshields eventually turn into cracks. As a result, the entire windshield may need to be replaced, which is why insurance companies don’t mind paying for minor chip and crack repairs.
Situations where glass repairs to your car may not have coverage:
- Specified or Named perils coverage on your policy. With specified-perils coverage, you might not have coverage if the crack is the result of hail, and it isn’t one of the specified perils in your policy.
- Collision coverage will be your windshield insurance if the damage to your windshield, or any glass, is the result of a collision.
- All perils insurance is comprehensive and collision insurance combined; therefore, you will have coverage in most cases of windshield damage.
Should You File a Windshield Claim?
Whether you should file a claim depends on your deductible and the total cost of the repair.
- If your repair cost is less than your deductible, it’s better to pay out-of-pocket.
- For larger repairs or replacements (over $700), filing an insurance claim usually saves you money.
- Most insurers don’t increase your premiums for a single glass claim, but multiple claims in a short period could impact your rates or deductible.
Pro tip: Always call your isure broker first. They can review your policy and help you decide whether filing a claim is the most cost-effective option.
Cracked Windshield Replacement Costs in Canada
The cost of replacing a windshield depends on your vehicle and its technology features:
- Standard windshield: $400–$800
- Windshield with ADAS (cameras/sensors): $900–$1,400+
- ADAS recalibration: Additional $200–$400
If your vehicle has lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control, calibration is mandatory to ensure safety systems function properly.
Does a Cracked Windshield Affect Insurance Premiums?
In most cases, no. A single glass claim under your comprehensive coverage won’t raise your rates. However:
- You might lose your claims-free discount when your policy renews.
- Submitting multiple claims in one year can lead to higher deductibles or limited glass coverage in the future.
If you’re concerned about future rate increases, ask your isure broker about adding OPCF 39 (Accident Forgiveness). While this endorsement applies to at-fault accidents, it can help protect your premiums after larger claims.
How to Reduce the Cost of Windshield Replacement
- Use your comprehensive coverage: Check if you have glass protection with a zero deductible.
- Compare repair quotes: Prices can vary significantly between shops, especially for ADAS calibration.
- Repair chips right away: About 90% of chips eventually spread into cracks, so fixing them early can prevent full replacements.
- Park strategically: Avoid trees, gravel shoulders, and construction zones when possible.
- Ask your insurer about preferred vendors: Many companies have partnerships with auto glass shops that handle billing directly.
Repairing a Chip Yourself
If the damage is minor and not in your line of sight, you may be able to repair it yourself:
- Clean the chip area thoroughly.
- Dry it completely.
- Fill it with an automotive resin repair kit (available for under $25 at Canadian Tire or Amazon).
- Allow it to cure and polish the area.
This process takes about 30 minutes, though the repair may leave a small mark on the glass. For a completely smooth finish, a full replacement is still necessary.
Final Thoughts: Call isure Before You File for a Cracked Windshield
It’s always smart to check with your insurer before getting any windshield work done. In some cases, paying out-of-pocket may be cheaper than filing a claim — but often, your comprehensive coverage will cover the majority (or all) of the cost. At isure insurance, our expert brokers can help you determine whether to repair or replace your windshield and guide you through your claim options.
Contact us today or visit isure.ca to speak with a broker about your Ontario auto insurance coverage and find out what’s best for your situation.
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