Answer 3 quick questions about the damage on your windshield and we'll tell you whether it's likely a repair or a replacement - plus what to expect for cost and time.
1. How big is the damage?
2. Where is the damage?
3. Is it in the driver's direct line of sight?
Most comprehensive auto insurance policies cover both, but they're usually billed differently. A number of states require insurers to waive the deductible entirely for chip repairs, since a small repair now is cheaper for the insurer than a full replacement claim later. Replacement is typically billed against your standard comprehensive deductible. Call your insurer before booking - it takes a couple of minutes and can be the difference between a free fix and a few hundred dollars.
If your vehicle has a forward-facing camera mounted near the top of the windshield - used for lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, or adaptive cruise control - it almost always needs to be recalibrated after a replacement so those safety systems still work correctly. Most shops either include this in their replacement quote or price it separately, so mention your vehicle's year, make, and model when you request quotes.
This tool gives a general guideline based on common auto-glass industry criteria. A qualified technician should always make the final call after inspecting the damage in person.