A small chip doesn't always mean you need a full replacement
A small windscreen chip — usually anything under the size of a coin — often can be repaired rather than replaced. The repair fills the damaged area with a special resin, restores clarity, and costs far less than a new windscreen. Whether repair is possible depends on where the chip is, how deep it goes, and what your insurance covers. Most chips can be fixed if you act before they spread into cracks.
The key difference between repair and replacement comes down to size, location, and how quickly you act. A chip that sits on the edge of your windscreen or in your passenger's view is easier to fix than one directly in front of you as the driver. Temperature swings, potholes, and hard braking can all turn a small chip into a spreading crack within days, so timing matters.
Key Takeaways
- Small chips under about 1 inch across can usually be repaired with resin injection, which takes 30 minutes to an hour and costs between £50 and £150 depending on location and depth.
- Chips in the driver's direct line of sight or within a few inches of the edge are harder to repair and may require replacement instead.
- Your insurance may cover repair at no cost if you have comprehensive coverage, though you may need to pay your excess first.
- Driving with an unrepaired chip can cause it to spread into a crack that makes the windscreen unsafe and forces replacement.
- A mobile repair technician can come to your home or workplace, so you don't have to visit a garage.
When a chip can be repaired instead of replaced
Repair is usually possible if the chip is smaller than a pound coin, the damage hasn't spread into a crack, and the chip isn't in the critical zone directly in front of the driver's eyes. The technician injects resin into the damaged area, which hardens and bonds the glass back together. This restores the windscreen's structural strength and makes the chip nearly invisible, though it won't be completely undetectable under close inspection.
The location of the chip matters more than its size. A chip on the passenger side or near the edge of the windscreen is easier to repair than one directly in the driver's line of sight. If the chip is within the area swept by the windscreen wipers or within a few inches of the edge, some repair shops may refuse the job because the fix could affect visibility or the windscreen's ability to hold during an accident.
What happens if you leave a chip unrepaired
A small chip left alone can spread into a long crack within days or weeks, especially if you hit a pothole, brake suddenly, or experience temperature changes. Once a chip becomes a crack longer than about 12 inches, repair is no longer an option — the windscreen must be replaced. A crack also makes the windscreen structurally weaker and less able to protect you in a collision.
Driving with a large crack is also illegal in most places. The police can stop you and issue a fine if the damage affects your view of the road or the windscreen's integrity. Repairing a chip early costs a fraction of replacing the entire windscreen, so it's worth doing as soon as you notice the damage.
How much a repair costs and what insurance covers
A windscreen chip repair typically costs between £50 and £150, depending on the depth of the damage, the location, and the repair shop. Some shops charge a flat rate; others charge more if the chip is deep or in a difficult location. Mobile repair services, which come to your home or workplace, usually cost the same as shop-based repairs but save you the time of travelling.
If you have comprehensive car insurance, your policy may cover windscreen repair at no cost to you, or you may only need to pay your excess (usually £0 to £100). Some insurers offer windscreen cover as an add-on, which either waives the excess or covers repair costs entirely. Check your policy documents or call your insurer to find out what you're covered for before you book a repair. If you don't have comprehensive coverage, you'll pay the full repair cost yourself.
How to find a repair service and what to expect
You can search online for "windscreen repair near me" or ask your insurance company for a recommended repairer — many insurers have approved networks and can book the appointment for you. Independent repair shops, mobile services, and large chains like Autoglass all offer chip repairs. Before you book, tell the technician where the chip is and roughly how big it is so they can confirm repair is possible.
The repair itself takes 30 minutes to an hour. The technician cleans the damaged area, injects resin under pressure, removes excess resin, and polishes the spot. You can usually drive the car when ready after, though some resins need a few hours to fully harden. The technician will advise you if you need to wait before driving.
When replacement is necessary instead of repair
If the chip has already spread into a crack, if the damage is larger than a pound coin, or if the chip is in the critical zone directly in front of the driver's eyes, repair won't work. In these cases, the windscreen must be replaced. Replacement costs between £200 and £600 depending on your car model and whether you choose an original manufacturer windscreen or an aftermarket one. Your insurance may cover replacement under comprehensive coverage, again subject to your excess.
Some chips are also too deep to repair safely — if the damage goes all the way through the outer layer of glass and into the inner layer, resin injection won't restore full strength. The technician will assess this when you contact them and let you know whether repair or replacement is the only safe option.
Steps to take right now
First, photograph the chip clearly so you have a record of its size and location. This helps if you need to make an insurance claim later. Next, check your car insurance policy to see whether windscreen damage is covered and what your excess is. If you're not sure, call your insurer — they can tell you in a few minutes and may even book the repair for you through their approved network.
Once you know what your insurance covers, contact a repair shop or mobile service to describe the damage and get a quote. If repair is possible and your insurance covers it, book the appointment as soon as you can. The longer you wait, the more likely the chip is to spread. If your insurance doesn't cover it, you can still get the repair done — it's still much cheaper than replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a small windscreen chip?
Yes, a small chip is safe to drive with in the short term, but you should get it repaired within a few days. Driving over bumps or sudden temperature changes can cause the chip to spread into a crack, which then becomes unsafe and illegal. The sooner you repair it, the less likely it is to get worse.
Will the repair be completely invisible?
The repair will be nearly invisible from a distance, but up close you may still see a slight mark where the resin was injected. The windscreen will be structurally sound and your view won't be affected. If you're looking for a perfect cosmetic result, replacement is the only option, but repair restores safety and function at a fraction of the cost.
What if my insurance excess is higher than the repair cost?
If your excess is £100 and the repair costs £80, you're better off paying for the repair yourself without claiming on insurance. You'll save money and avoid using up your claim. Keep the receipt in case you need it later for your records.
How long does a windscreen repair last?
A properly done repair is permanent — the resin bonds the glass and won't degrade over time. You won't need to have it redone. The repaired area is as strong as the surrounding glass, though it may be slightly visible under close inspection.
Can I repair a chip myself with a DIY kit?
DIY windscreen repair kits exist and cost £10 to £30, but they rarely produce results as good as a professional repair. Professional technicians use industrial-grade resin and pressure injection equipment that DIY kits can't match. If the chip is small and not in a critical location, a professional repair is worth the extra cost for a result that will last.