Is there compensation for a cracked windshield on a new car?
4 Answers
There is compensation for a cracked windshield on a new car, provided that the damage is due to natural cracking. In such cases, you can directly claim compensation at the 4S store where you purchased the car, as the vehicle is still under warranty. The standard warranty period for a new car is three years or 60,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. This means that if the car exceeds 60,000 kilometers from the date of purchase, the warranty period ends. According to China's Three Guarantees Law for automobiles, the warranty period must not exceed the three guarantees period, which is no less than two years or 50,000 kilometers. Whole Vehicle Warranty: The whole vehicle warranty covers all parts of the car. If any component fails due to non-human factors, it can be replaced free of charge, but only within the warranty period. Different parts and components have varying warranty periods. For example, while the general warranty may be three years or 60,000 kilometers, some parts may only be covered for three or six months before requiring payment for repairs. Common Parts Warranty Periods: Spark plugs—2 years or 20,000 kilometers, air filter—1 year or 8,000 kilometers, fuel filter—1 year or 8,000 kilometers, oil filter—1 year or 8,000 kilometers, battery—2 years or 20,000 kilometers, tires—6 months or 5,000 kilometers, wiper blades—6 months or 5,000 kilometers, etc.
As an enthusiast who frequently pays attention to car maintenance, I remember that whether a cracked windshield on a new car can be covered depends mainly on the purchase conditions and warranty terms. New cars usually come with a warranty of several years. If your car is still under warranty and the windshield crack is due to manufacturing defects or quality issues, such as improper installation causing stress cracks, the manufacturer or 4S dealership should replace it for free. However, external factors like a small stone hitting the windshield on the road may not be covered by the warranty. In such cases, you need to check if your vehicle insurance includes glass coverage, as comprehensive insurance often covers accidental damage like this. The compensation process is straightforward: first, take clear photos of the crack, then contact the dealership or your insurance company—they will evaluate and handle the claim. Don’t delay, as windshield cracks can spread and worsen, potentially compromising driving safety. Develop a habit of regularly inspecting the windshield visually and avoiding rough roads to prevent many issues.
Last year, I noticed a small crack on the windshield right after picking up my new car and was eager to address the issue. The possibility of compensation depends on the cause: first, new car warranties typically last about two years, and if the issue is with the glass itself, the 4S store usually covers the replacement; second, insurance options, such as comprehensive coverage or separate glass insurance, can cover external impacts, with costs borne by the insurance company. Without insurance or warranty coverage, you’ll have to pay for repairs out of pocket, but new car prices are transparent, and replacing a windshield isn’t expensive. The specific steps are to first take photos for evidence, then visit a reputable repair shop to diagnose the cause—don’t attempt DIY fixes. It’s advisable to clarify warranty details when buying a car, and adding glass insurance is worthwhile. Drive cautiously, maintain a safe distance from large vehicles to avoid stone chips, and remember that prevention is better than cure.
I've dealt with similar situations before. When a new car's windshield cracks and you want compensation, the key is identifying the responsible party. If the crack is due to manufacturing defects within the warranty period, the manufacturer should cover the costs. For damage caused by external forces, insurance claims are the way to go. Without coverage, paying out of pocket for a replacement is the only option. Since cracked windshields compromise driving safety, it's crucial to have them inspected by professionals and replaced promptly. For prevention, park away from areas with direct sunlight and large temperature fluctuations, and avoid using cold sprays on hot glass during car washes – these small habits can extend your windshield's lifespan.
