Understand Your Options with Fleet Motorglass
If you’re looking for windscreen repair or replacement in the UK, it helps to understand how pricing and timeframes are calculated. At Fleet Motorglass, we specialise in efficient windscreen services for personal and fleet vehicles. This guide outlines how long each service might take and what you can expect to pay.
What Affects the Cost of Windscreen Repairs or Replacements?
Type of Service: Repair vs Replacement
- Repair is usually cheaper and faster. It’s suitable for small chips and cracks.
- Replacement is required if the damage is too large or in a critical area (like the driver’s direct line of vision).
Vehicle Make and Model
Modern vehicles often have sensors or ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) integrated into the windscreen. Replacing a windscreen on a car with sensors will usually cost more than on an older model without these systems.
Glass Type
- Heated windscreens
- Rain/light sensors
- Acoustic glass
Each type comes with a different cost profile. Heated windscreens and ADAS-compatible glass are typically at the higher end.
Insurance Coverage
If you have comprehensive insurance, many insurers cover windscreen repair and replacement with a fixed excess fee. This is normally between £75–£150. Always check your policy.
Average Pricing for Windscreen Services in the UK
Cost & Time Breakdown Table
Service Type | Vehicle Type | Estimated Cost (Without Insurance) | Typical Time Required |
Chip Repair | All | £60–£90 | 20–40 minutes |
Windscreen Replacement | Economy | £175–£250 | 60–90 minutes |
Windscreen Replacement | Mid-range | £250–£400 | 90–120 minutes |
Windscreen Replacement | Premium/ADAS | £450–£800+ | 90–180 minutes (inc. calibration) |
You can compare prices on services like Checkatrade for reference.
How Long Does It Take to Repair or Replace a Windscreen?
Repair Time Frame
- Chip repairs take around 30 minutes
- You can drive immediately after the repair is completed
Replacement Time Frame
- Most standard replacements take 1 to 2 hours
- If ADAS calibration is needed, allow an extra 30 to 60 minutes
- Some vehicles may require the car to stay static for an additional 30 minutes while adhesive cures
Can You Drive Straight After a Windscreen Replacement?
Adhesives used in windscreen installations need time to set. Fleet Motorglass uses fast-cure adhesives, so your vehicle is typically safe to drive 30 minutes after the glass has been fitted. Some cases may require a longer setting time. Your technician will advise based on your vehicle and conditions.
How to Know If You Need a Repair or Full Replacement
You may only need a repair if:
- The chip is smaller than a £2 coin
- It’s not in the driver’s line of sight
- There’s no spreading crack
You likely need a full replacement if:
- The crack is larger than 40mm
- It interferes with camera or sensor systems
- The damage reaches the edge of the windscreen
Fleet and Commercial Vehicle Windscreens
Fleet vehicles often operate on tighter timelines. Fleet Motorglass offers mobile services and same-day or next-day availability for most commercial vehicles. Pricing depends on fleet size and volume of work, with discounts available for bulk servicing.
Why Choose Fleet Motorglass?
- Nationwide coverage
- Mobile windscreen technicians
- Same-day repairs where available
- ADAS recalibration services
- Fleet contracts and trade pricing
Tips to Reduce Costs and Downtime
- Book early to secure availability
- Check your insurance cover before booking
- Choose mobile repair to avoid downtime
- Address chips immediately to avoid full replacement
Final Thoughts
Windscreen repairs are fast and affordable, but delays can lead to full replacements that cost more and take longer. At Fleet Motorglass, we make it straightforward. Whether you’re managing a fleet or booking a single car, you’ll get expert service and clear pricing.
For more info or to get a quote, contact Fleet Motorglass directly or speak to your insurer if you think your policy covers glass repairs.
External source used: Checkatrade windscreen replacement cost guide