McAllen is one of the largest cities that you can find in the Rio Grande Valley Region. It is bordering Reynosa in Mexico and Edinburg in Texas from the two sides. The location of McAllen has contributed towards a robust job growth in the region during past few years.
The strategic border location and the low cost of living attract numerous businesses to this region. Out of them, businesses that belong to healthcare, retail, tourism, produce processing, and manufacturing hold a prominent place. If you are reading this, you must probably be looking forward to getting a cracked windshield replaced in McAllen. The cost of windshield replacement depends on numerous factors. Continue to read and let's explore them in detail.
Type of Vehicle
The type of vehicle you drive has a significant impact on windshield replacement cost. Luxury, imported, and specialty vehicles almost always cost more for windshield replacement than domestic vehicles. That's because their windshields tend to be more intricately shaped and contain more high-tech features that drive up the replacement cost. Expect to pay $50-100+ more for windshield replacement on higher-end vehicles.
Windshield Material
There are three common types of auto glass used in windshields today. The most common options out of them include standard glass, acrylic, and laminated glass. Laminated glass is considered the safest and most widely used. It consists of a resin laminate between two sheets of glass to hold it together if shattered. Laminated windshields cost more to replace than standard glass or acrylic alternatives. Some vehicles may require factory glass that meets special sound-dampening or structural reinforcement specs - which also increases cost.
Windshield Features
Many newer vehicles contain additional high-tech features built right into the windshield itself. These include rain sensors, collision and lane departure warning systems, heated wiper areas, and ADAS camera/sensor systems for advanced driver assistance features. The more fancy tech your windshield contains, the pricier it will be to replace. Special calibration and reinitialization of these features after installing the new windshield can also tack on labor costs.
Location & Severity of Damage
Where and how significantly your windshield is damaged affects the repair or replacement cost. Minor chips and cracks can often be repaired quickly for under $100. But larger cracks require a full windshield replacement. Furthermore, if the damage is in the driver's direct line of sight, insurance companies will often mandate full replacement for safety. More extensive windshield damage equals bigger replacement expenses.
Shop Location
There can be notable differences in windshield pricing from shop to shop across McAllen. National chain auto glass retailers often offer lower prices due to high volume and bulk part purchases. Independent local shops have less purchasing power and frequently charge more. However, they may provide superior craftsmanship and service. And of course, costs can vary between shops located right in McAllen versus its suburbs. In terms of quotes, it pays to shop around.
Final Words
With all these factors at play, most windshield replacements in McAllen fall somewhere between $200-800 based on the vehicle make/model, extent of damage, shop location, and parts/features. Getting quotes from 3-5 shops and checking with your insurance is the best way to trim costs on your next windshield replacement. Acting quickly at the first signs of damage before expanding cracks occur can also help control pricing. By knowing what impacts the costs, McAllen drivers can better manage their replacement budget.
If you are looking for a place to replace your windshield at an affordable price, check out us at A-1 Auto Glass Repair. From auto glass repair to replacement, we provide all the services you need. Contact us today for more information.