Finding a Good Auto Glass Replacement Shop

When a windshield or another piece of auto glass breaks on a vehicle, many people aren't quite sure who to call. Oftentimes, they´ll call a regular glass or window shop only to find that the two types of glass work are completely different industries.

Other times, they´ll call their local auto body shop or repair facility and find out that they don´t replace auto glass either. In many cases, these shops will take the vehicle in and bring in an auto glass replacement company but the customer usually ends up paying more than they should.

A better way to get a windshield or a door glass replaced is to find a good auto glass replacement company. These companies specialize in replacing automotive glass and know all of the safety issues and federal laws governing the installation of these vital pieces of your car. Before browsing the yellow pages, it's smart to learn about what to look for in an auto glass replacement shop.

Windshield Safety Concerns

In fact, much of the glass in a car is considered part of the car´s safety system. For example, the windshield helps support the roof of the car in the case of a rollover accident and it also works in conjunction with the passenger side airbag. Because of its critical role, only a professional installation using the proper adhesives, primers and techniques will do. Find out more about the safety concerns of windshield replacement by reading the following two articles:

Windshield Replacement and Airbag Systems

There's More to Windshield Replacement than Meets the Eye

How do you know if an auto glass replacement shop follows the appropriate guidelines? Membership in two key associations shows a glass replacement shop´s commitment to safe auto glass installations. These two associations are the NGA and AGRSS.

Auto Glass Associations

The National Glass Association is the auto glass replacement industry´s trade association. An excerpt from the NGA´s Mission Statement says it all, "To provide information and education, as well as promote quality workmanship, ethics, and safety in the architectural, automotive and window and door glass industries."

The NGA certifies auto glass technicians at all levels. The highest NGA certification is the Master level. These technicians are the cream of the crop and highly experienced. If you have a high-end car, request an NGA Certified Master Technician. When you choose a shop that is an NGA member that employs NGA certified technicians, you can be sure the technicians have the training required to restore your car to its factory original crash-worthiness.

The Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards Council, or the AGRSS, is a non-profit organization dedicated to safe auto glass replacements. It is comprised of industry member organizations who value safety as one of their primary goals. Auto glass replacement companies who belong to this organization are committed to safe auto glass practices and techniques.

Auto Glass Materials

In addition to a glass shop´s commitment to safety through the organizations they belong to, find an auto glass replacement shop that uses quality materials. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) glass and adhesive systems are preferred and oftentimes cost the same as after-market knockoffs in competitive markets. Find out if your vehicle will be safe to drive after the installation or if the adhesive will need to cure first. Even the best adhesives must cure before the car is safe to drive. OEM quick cure adhesives are available if time is of the essence however they generally cost more. Reputable shops will make sure you are aware of how long your car will be disabled.

Mobile Or In-Shop Auto Glass Service?

Most auto glass replacement companies have both mobile and in-shop service for your convenience. Choose the option that best suits your needs. If you want them to come to your home or business, this frees you up from sitting in a waiting room while they do the job. Mobile service is about as convenient as possible though you will usually not be given an exact time but rather a range of several hours.

Finding an Auto Glass Shop

Auto glass replacement shops can be found in the yellow pages under Glass/Automotive. A better way to find a quality shop is to get a referral. Word of mouth referrals from trusted sources are invaluable. Dealerships and insurance agents are especially good sources to ask because they deal with auto glass companies on a daily basis.

For example, if your Mercedes dealer has a favorite technician or glass company, he´ll let you know. You can be assured that the recommended shop has a great deal of Mercedes experience and has earned the trust and respect of your dealer.

In addition, your insurance agent has a great deal of clout with the auto glass shop. Asking your insurance agent for a referral, even if you won´t be filing a claim, gives you the upper hand in the transaction. The glass shop depends on insurance claims and referrals and will do everything to keep you happy, satisfied and safe. You´ll likely get priority service when the shop knows you are affiliated with an insurance agent.

Finding a good auto glass replacement shop is just a phone call or even an internet web search away. In calling or researching the shops, inquire about their NGA and AGRSS memberships, ask about their safety procedures and find out if their technicians are certified with the NGA.