When Repair Is Possible
Chips smaller than a 50-cent coin, not in the driver's direct line of sight, not on the edge of the windscreen, and with no more than 3 chips total. Repairs cost $60-100 and take 30 minutes.
When Replacement Is Needed
Cracks longer than 15cm, damage in the driver's primary vision area, multiple cracks, or edge damage that compromises structural integrity. Replacement costs $250-600 for standard vehicles, $400-1,500 for vehicles with cameras and sensors built into the windscreen.
Insurance Coverage
Most comprehensive insurance policies include windscreen repair with no excess. Some include replacement with no excess too — check your PDS.
Perth Driving Tip
Maintain at least a 3-second following distance on highways, especially behind trucks and on gravel roads. Most windscreen chips come from stones flicked up by the vehicle ahead. Keep your distance and save yourself the hassle.