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When your Model Y windshield is chipped, cracked, or damaged in any way, fixing it must be a priority. You might be able to avoid replacement by having the damaged area repaired. But quite often, a full windshield replacement is necessary. After reading this, you’ll have everything you need to handle a Tesla Model Y windshield replacement.
What Situation Should Change to a New Windshield Replacement?
There are 3 situations that require glass replacement or repair. These include small rock chips, long cracks, and damage caused by accidents.
Here is a brief breakdown of each windshield damage situation and the problems they present:
- Rock chips: A common problem caused when small stones or gravel hits your windshield. Small chips can expand into large cracks.
- Cracks: Caused by impacts or an expanding chip. They can compromise the integrity of the glass and impair visibility. They are likely to grow larger with time, especially with temperature changes.
- Accidents: Anything from a small fender-bender to a big collision can cause windshield damage. It ranges from obvious shattering to subtle fractures.
With certain small chips or cracks, you might be able to repair the specific area without replacing the windshield. But there are specific Tesla Model Y guidelines for windshield repair and replacement. You cannot make repairs in certain areas of the windshield, including:
- The outer edges of the windshield
- The camera field of view
- The passenger side
If your damage is in these areas, you must have your Tesla Model Y windshield replaced. You also must have it replaced if the damage is in other areas and is too large for repair, 25 to 50 mm.
What Happens if You Don’t Change Tesla’s Damaged Windshield?
If your Tesla’s windshield gets damaged, you may need it replaced. In some cases, a windshield repair is possible. Both of these are not cosmetic repairs but critical safety measures.
Driving with a compromised windshield is a safety hazard. A small chip or crack can turn into a large crack. It can endanger you and your passengers.
Windshield damage may prevent you from being able to see the road well. And it can cause issues with the Model Y’s windshield structural integrity. If the windshield fails while driving, you could have major problems.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Windshields for Model Y
You have two options for Model Y windshield replacement. You can get an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) windshield or an aftermarket windshield.
The pros of OEM Windshields include:
- Guaranteed fit: Made for Tesla vehicles, ensuring original look and function.
- High quality: These windshields meet Tesla’s rigorous standards, providing durability and optimal performance.
The cons of choosing OEM Windshields are:
- Higher cost: OEM parts may have a higher price than aftermarket options.
- Availability: Some windshield suppliers or replacement services may not supply OEM Tesla windshields.
For something as critical as the windshield, using Tesla-approved replacement parts is best. If you don’t, it could cause problems with your car’s systems, including the autopilot sensors and cameras. There can also be fitment issues, leading to leaks or a lack of durability found in the OEM windshields.
Cost To Replace a Tesla Y Windshield
The average cost for a Tesla Model Y windshield replacement is between $1,200 to $1,700. Many people pay close to $1,400.
The official Tesla after-sales repair service is usually within this average cost. The prices of other stores fluctuate more. Rare cases offer lower prices of $1,200 or very high prices over $2,000.
The exact price you’ll pay depends on:
- The windshield selected and its availability: Usually around $1,000 to $1,300
- Labor costs in your area: Typically around $200 to $400 (about 2-3 hours)
- The demand for the replacement service: Companies may charge more if they are very busy or the windshield is hard to find
Getting the OEM replacement from Tesla is usually the preferred way to go. And since it’s around the same price, there’s no reason to go with third-party services.
Some insurance policies offer windshield coverage. They may or may not have a special deductible only for windshield replacement. Since the Model Y windshield is expensive, having windshield coverage is a good idea. The only problem is that some insurance companies won’t work with Tesla service centers. You may have to pay it out of pocket and then submit an insurance claim for reimbursement.
Steps Involved in Model Y Windshield Replacement
A Model Y windshield replacement usually takes around 2-4 hours to complete. Some service centers might request you leave the car for the day. This lets them do the work when it fits their schedule and may leave time for the sealant to cure.
Here’s an overview of the typical Tesla windshield replacement process:
- Removal: Get rid of the existing seal and glass without damaging sensors or cameras. Clean the mounting surface for the new windshield.
- Install new windshield: The new windshield is set into place and secured.
- Seal, trim, and check: The final touches of the windshield installation to ensure no air or water leaks.
Due to Tesla’s windshield sensors and cameras, recalibration is necessary. This ensures that features like autopilot and safety systems operate.
It’s preferred to have Tesla service centers perform the recalibration. Some other windshield professionals can recalibrate Tesla systems. But their level of expertise might be questionable.
Maintenance Tips To Prevent Future Windshield Damage
To keep your windshield looking great, follow these maintenance tips:
- Keep distance driving behind others: Helps stay away from rocks and gravel thrown up.
- Get small chips or cracks repaired: Stop small problems from spreading.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes: Glass doesn’t handle rapid temperature changes well. Be careful during extreme cold or heat. Never pour hot water on a cold windshield.
- Use high-quality parts and service: This helps ensure a long-lasting replacement without problems.
Our Verdict
Windshield damage isn’t just a blemish on the skin of your car. It’s an integral part that needs to be treated as a priority. When problems arise, it deserves your attention. A cracked, chipped, or damaged Model Y windshield must be replaced to ensure visibility and safety.
To learn more about your Tesla car, read our Tesla Glass Roof Guide.