Is there compensation for a cracked windshield on a new car?
2 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.
