You have a windshield quote in front of you. Maybe two or three. Before you schedule your replacement, take five minutes to verify these 12 items. This checklist is based on the most common problems drivers encounter with windshield quotes -- from hidden fees to missing warranty information. Run through it and you will avoid the pitfalls that catch unprepared drivers.
Pricing Checklist
1. Is the Quote a Single Firm Price?
The quote should show one number, not a range. If it says "$300 to $500," that is not a quote -- it is an estimate. A firm price means the company has looked up your specific vehicle and knows the exact glass part number and cost. If the price is a range, ask why and request a firm number.
What to look for: A single dollar amount (e.g., "$389 installed").
2. Does the Price Include ADAS Calibration?
If your vehicle has a forward-facing camera (most vehicles from 2018 onward), calibration is required after windshield replacement. This can add $150 to $400. Check whether it is included in the quoted price or listed as a separate charge. If the quote does not mention calibration at all and your vehicle needs it, the price is incomplete. See our ADAS calibration guide.
3. Are All Fees Included?
Ask specifically: "Is this the total out-the-door price?" Check for mobile service fees, disposal fees, molding charges, and environmental fees. If any of these are extra, add them to the quoted price to get the true total. Our hidden fees guide lists every possible add-on charge.
Glass Checklist
4. Is the Glass Type Specified?
The quote should clearly state whether you are getting OEM or aftermarket glass. If aftermarket, what brand? If the glass type is not specified, ask. This information significantly affects both the price and the quality of what you are getting. See our OEM vs. aftermarket guide.
5. Does the Glass Meet DOT Standards?
All windshield glass sold in the United States must meet DOT safety standards. This should be a given, but with very cheap quotes, it is worth confirming. The glass should carry a DOT stamp when installed.
6. Does the Glass Match Your Vehicle's Features?
If your original windshield has rain sensors, acoustic properties, IR coating, or a heated element, the replacement glass should match these features. Confirm with the auto glass company that the quoted glass includes all the features your vehicle needs.
Warranty Checklist
7. What Is the Warranty Duration?
Lifetime warranty is the industry gold standard. One-year warranties are acceptable. Ninety-day warranties are below standard. No warranty is unacceptable. See our warranty details guide.
8. What Does the Warranty Cover?
A good warranty covers both the glass (manufacturing defects, delamination, stress cracks) and the installation (leaks, wind noise, adhesive failure). Some warranties cover only one or the other. Confirm both are included.
9. Is the Warranty in Writing?
Verbal warranties are worthless. Confirm that you will receive written warranty documentation at the time of service. If the company will not put it in writing, that is a red flag.
Company Checklist
10. Are Technicians Certified?
Ask whether the technicians are certified (Auto Glass Safety Council or equivalent). Certified technicians have been trained in proper installation techniques, adhesive application, and safety standards. This matters because a windshield is a structural safety component.
11. Is the Company Licensed and Insured?
The company should be licensed to operate in Colorado and carry liability insurance. If something goes wrong during installation (paint damage, interior damage), insurance protects you. Ask for proof if you want to be thorough.
12. Does the Company Have Verifiable Reviews?
Check Google reviews. A reputable auto glass company should have at least a 4-star rating with a meaningful number of reviews (50+). Read a few recent reviews to see how they handle problems. A company with 200+ five-star reviews that responds professionally to the occasional negative review is a good sign.
Your Quick-Reference Checklist
| # | Item | Pass? |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Single firm price (not a range) | ___ |
| 2 | ADAS calibration included or listed | ___ |
| 3 | All fees included (no hidden charges) | ___ |
| 4 | Glass type specified (OEM/aftermarket, brand) | ___ |
| 5 | Glass meets DOT standards | ___ |
| 6 | Glass matches vehicle features | ___ |
| 7 | Warranty duration stated (lifetime preferred) | ___ |
| 8 | Warranty covers glass AND installation | ___ |
| 9 | Warranty provided in writing | ___ |
| 10 | Technicians certified | ___ |
| 11 | Company licensed and insured | ___ |
| 12 | Positive, verifiable online reviews | ___ |
How to Use This Checklist
A quote that passes all 12 items is a quote you can trust. If a quote fails on one or two items, ask the company about those specific items -- they may be able to clarify. If a quote fails on three or more items, get a second opinion from another company.
At Get A Windshield Quote, our quotes pass all 12 items by default. Firm price, ADAS included when needed, no hidden fees, glass type specified, lifetime warranty in writing, certified technicians, fully licensed and insured, and 200+ five-star Google reviews. That is the standard we hold ourselves to, and it is the standard you should expect from any auto glass company.
For more guidance on evaluating quotes, read our 15 questions to ask and our quote comparison guide.