Windshield Replacement Price Comparison: What's Fair?
Getting multiple quotes is smart. But how do you know if a price is fair, suspiciously cheap, or a ripoff? This guide helps you compare apples to apples.
What's a Fair Price for Windshield Replacement in 2026?
Here are realistic pricing ranges for the Denver metro area. If a quote falls significantly outside these ranges -- higher or lower -- you should ask questions.
Suspiciously Cheap: Under $200
At this price, something is being cut. Common issues: inferior aftermarket glass from overseas, no ADAS calibration (even if your car needs it), no warranty, improper installation adhesive, or the quote doesn't include all fees.
Fair Range: $250 - $600
This is the realistic range for most vehicles in Denver. Standard sedans without ADAS are on the lower end. SUVs and trucks, or any vehicle with ADAS calibration, are toward the higher end. This range includes quality glass, proper installation, and a warranty.
Premium: $600 - $900+
Justified for luxury vehicles (BMW, Mercedes, Tesla), vehicles with complex ADAS systems, or OEM glass. If a quote is this high for a standard vehicle, get a second opinion.
Likely Overpriced: $900+ (standard vehicles)
Unless you drive a luxury or specialty vehicle, a quote over $900 may include unnecessary upsells. Common tricks: charging separately for calibration that should be included, premium pricing for standard glass, or inflated labor charges.
How to Compare Windshield Replacement Quotes (Apples to Apples)
When comparing quotes from different shops, make sure each quote includes the same items. A lower price isn't cheaper if it's missing something you'll need to pay for separately.
Every Quote Should Include:
Glass type specified
OEM, OEE, or aftermarket -- you should know which
ADAS calibration
If your vehicle has a windshield camera (most 2018+)
Mobile service fee
Should be $0 -- if they charge extra, shop around
Warranty details
What's covered, how long, labor + glass or just glass?
Disposal/environmental fee
Some shops sneak this in. Ask if it's included.
Total out-the-door price
No hidden fees or surprise charges at completion
The biggest hidden cost: ADAS calibration
Some shops quote a low windshield price, then add $200-$400 for ADAS calibration as a "separate service." A transparent shop includes calibration in the total quote upfront. Always ask: "Does this price include ADAS calibration if my vehicle needs it?"
Red Flags in Lowball Windshield Quotes
"$149 windshield replacement!"
Impossible for quality glass on any modern vehicle. They're using bottom-tier aftermarket glass or will add fees later.
No questions about your vehicle
A legitimate shop needs your year, make, model, and trim to give an accurate quote. No questions = generic pricing.
"We don't do ADAS calibration"
If your 2018+ vehicle needs it and they skip it, your lane departure warning, auto-braking, and cruise control won't work correctly.
No warranty mentioned
Any reputable shop offers at least a 1-year warranty. No warranty means no accountability if the glass leaks, cracks, or was installed poorly.
Cash only, no insurance billing
Legitimate shops work with insurance companies. Cash-only operations may not be properly licensed or insured themselves.
Pressure to decide immediately
"This price is only good today" is a high-pressure tactic. Fair pricing doesn't expire in 24 hours.
The Best "Deal" Is Using Your Insurance
Instead of spending hours comparing cash prices, check your insurance first. Most Colorado drivers with comprehensive coverage pay $0-$100 for windshield replacement -- less than even the cheapest legitimate cash quote.
Stop comparing quotes. Start comparing coverage.
We'll check your insurance coverage for free and give you a transparent, all-inclusive quote.