Auto Glass Replacement Insurance Coverage Tennessee

Introduction

Picture this: You’re driving down I-24 near Murfreesboro, music going, just trying to get through the day, when—tap!—a rock jumps up and cracks your windshield. It’s tiny, but it still hits your nerves. Around Tennessee, with our gravel roads, never-ending Nashville construction, and surprise storms, cracked auto glass is just a part of life. That’s why knowing what your insurance covers matters—it can save your wallet and keep your view clear. In this guide, AA Auto Glass will walk you through what’s covered, what it costs, how to file a claim, whether to repair or replace, the types of glass you may get, and how to get it fixed without stress. Got a crack driving you nuts? Let’s fix that.

What’s Covered by Your Insurance?

Auto glass damage usually falls under Comprehensive Coverage. That’s the part of your car insurance that covers things that aren’t a crash with another car—stuff like hail, falling branches, rocks from the road, or someone breaking your window.

If the glass cracked because of a car accident, then that's usually covered under Collision Coverage instead.

Some insurance companies offer something called Full Glass Coverage. That’s an add-on that lets you repair or replace your glass without paying a deductible. It’s optional in Tennessee, but many drivers like it because it avoids those “I guess I have to pay $500 for a windshield” moments.

And yes—it’s not just the windshield that’s covered. Most policies also cover:

• Side windows

• Rear window

• Quarter glass

• Vent glass

• Car door glass

Pretty much the glass that’s part of your car.

But let’s be clear on what’s covered and what’s not.

Covered:

• Road debris damage

• Hail and storms (we get enough of those)

• Vandalism or break-ins

• Damage from accidents (under collision)

Not Covered:

• Pre-existing cracks that were already there

• Damage from poor installation or old age wear

• Glass issues caused by aftermarket tinting gone wrong

I remember a Murfreesboro family telling me their windshield cracked during one of those “out of nowhere” hail bursts last spring. Their comprehensive coverage handled the whole thing. No stress, no long calls, no surprise bills. If you have comprehensive, you’re usually set for things like that.

So yeah, got comprehensive? You’re in good shape.

How Much Will It Cost You?

Here’s where the money talk comes in.

If you don’t have Full Glass Coverage, you may need to pay a deductible. That’s the amount you agree to pay before insurance pays the rest. Some deductibles are $100. Some are $500. Depends on your policy.

But here’s a little bit of good news: Insurance companies often waive the deductible if the glass is repaired instead of replaced. So a tiny chip? Usually free with the right coverage.

If the repair costs less than your deductible, it may be smarter to pay out of pocket instead of filing a claim. Filing small claims over and over can sometimes make insurance companies grumpy.

Let’s talk rough costs in Tennessee:

1. Windshield replacement: $200–$400 for most cars 

2. Side window replacement: $150–$300 

3. Rear window replacement: $200–$500 

4. Chip repair: $45–$100

And Full Glass Coverage usually costs about $10–$30 per year. That’s cheaper than takeout dinner in Nashville.

Hate surprise bills? Yeah, same here. So the key is to know:

• Your deductible amount

• Whether your policy includes Full Glass Coverage

• If repair is an option

A quick call to your insurance company clears it up fast.

Filing a Claim Without the Hassle

Filing a glass claim sounds like a headache, but honestly—it’s pretty simple.

Steps to File a Glass Claim

• Call your insurance or use their app

• Share what happened (rock hit glass, hail damage, break-in, etc.)

• Tell them which window needs fixing

• They’ll approve the claim and tell you your deductible (if any)

• You schedule the repair or replacement

Most auto glass shops in Tennessee can file the claim for you, so you don’t have to deal with the paperwork.

Insurance companies usually approve glass claims within 1–2 business days. And the best part? Glass claims usually don’t raise your insurance rates, because glass damage is typically treated as no-fault. That means nobody blames you.

I like to say, “It’s easier than finding parking in downtown Chattanooga.” And yes—it really is.

Repair or Replace?

Insurance companies look at two things when deciding whether to repair or replace a windshield:

• Size: Small chips (about the size of a quarter) can be repaired. Big cracks? Replacement.

• Location: If the crack is right in your line of sight, even if it's small, they’ll often choose replacement for safety.

And honestly, repairs are cheaper and keep the original factory seal, which is good.

Repair cost: $45–$100 Replacement cost: $200–$400 (more for fancy sensors)

Quick Breakdown

• Tiny chip → Repair

• Long crack → Replace

• Crack blocking your view → Replace

• Chip near the edge (spider cracks love to spread) → Replace

I heard from a driver in Franklin who ignored a small chip for two weeks. Cold night + morning sun = crack across the whole windshield. That’s how fast it spreads. Tiny chip? Fix it fast.

Glass Types and High-Tech Stuff

Okay, quick talk on OEM and Aftermarket glass.

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): Same glass the dealership uses. Perfect fit. Usually more expensive.

• Aftermarket: Made by third-party companies. Works fine for most cars. Cheaper.

Insurance companies often prefer aftermarket because it costs less. But if your car is leased, or if your car has ADAS systems (those tiny cameras and sensors behind the windshield), you may need OEM glass.

Also, many newer cars need calibration after glass replacement. Calibration is when the cameras and sensors are adjusted again so your safety features work right. That can cost $100–$500, and yes—insurance often covers it.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Simple List

1. OEM fits like the original

2. Aftermarket works fine but may differ slightly

3. OEM is pricier

4. Your policy may decide which one you get

Fancy tech? It costs more. But it’s for safety, so it’s worth knowing.

Getting Your Glass Fixed Fast

You usually have the right to choose your own glass shop. Insurance companies may suggest one they work with—but you can say no if you want.

Mobile service? Yep. Most shops in Tennessee will come to your house, work, driveway, school parking lot—wherever. And insurance often covers mobile service with no extra fee.

Time: Most windshield replacements take 30–60 minutes. Then you may need to wait about an hour before driving again so the adhesive sets properly.

Warranty: Many shops offer warranties on leaks or air noise. Some are 30 days. Some are lifetime.

Service Steps

• Call or book online

• They check your insurance

• They come to your location

• Glass gets replaced in 30–60 minutes

• You’re back on I-65, headed through Brentwood or Smyrna

Note: If the glass damage was already there before a covered event, insurance may not cover it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is windshield replacement in Tennessee? 

Usually $200–$400 for most cars. Luxury or ADAS windshields can run higher.

Does insurance cover it? 

Yes—if you have comprehensive, most glass damage is covered. Deductibles may apply unless you have Full Glass Coverage.

Can I choose my own repair shop? 

Yes. Your choice. Insurance might recommend someone, but it’s your call.

Will a glass claim raise my rates? 

Most of the time, no. Glass claims are usually treated as no-fault.

How long does replacement take? 

About 30–60 minutes, plus a short wait time before driving.

Should I repair or replace? 

If it’s a tiny chip, repair it before it spreads. Long cracks or anything in your line of sight should be replaced.

Conclusion

Check your policy, know your costs, and don't wait on that crack. Filing claims is simple, choosing the right glass matters, and getting fixed is faster than you think. Call your insurer to confirm your coverage, or hit up a trusted Tennessee shop like AA Auto Glass at 615-935-2555. Don't let a crack mess up your Knoxville drive—get it handled and get back to enjoying those Smoky Mountain views!