Cheap Auto Glass? (Austin: apartment, insurance, deductible)

[4orty9]

Running errands for work today, I hopped out of my truck to run in to a city building to get a permit for no less than thirty minutes. I parked near two vehicles that did not move, under the clear sky far away from any tree. I came back to the truck to notice a ~9-10" crack from the right windshield wiper arching to the left about 5" from the base of the windshield. I'm assuming it was the heat that caused it (I've only had the truck for about 2 months).

Where is the cheapest place to get my windshield replaced in Austin?

[someguyatx]

Check your insurance policy first many glass repairs are free if you have decent insurance

[10scoachrick]

I'd also be a bit concerned about the source of the crack. We haven't had any HOT weather yet(not that it hasn't been really hot a couple of days...but not like the HOT weather of the last three summers). A windshield shouldn't crack from typical Texas heat. Perhaps the windshield guys would have some ideas, perhaps tracing it back to a ding or failure in the mounting track.

This is from the Austin Windshields site:
Many people are afraid of using their insurance company when it comes to windshield repair and replacement. If your comprehensive deductible is $100 or less, then using your insurance will save you a lot of money. If it is $250 the new windshield may cost less then your deductible so call us and we can advise you on if it is worth it or not. Things to remember when making an glass claim:

• Glass claims are considered no fault by your insurance company which means they will very rarely increase your insurance rates
• You have the legal right to choose any glass shop you want, go only to the shop where you feel safe and comfortable
• Don't let your insurance steer you to a cut rate shop, demand only the best
• You only pay your comprehensive deductible, we bill them for them for the balance and we do all the paperwork for you

Of course, they are in the business of making money; but they also should make it easy for you to go through your insurance OR give you a fair quote if you're paying out of pocket.

[4orty9]

I've USAA with 1000$ ded., shoulda stated earlier. I would try to do it myself if I didn't live in an apartment.

[spelrod]

Your insurance company might have a deal with a glass shop to give you a discount on their prices. If they do, it's most likely Safelite AutoGlass.

[4orty9]

Safelight wants ~$250+