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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Repair or replace?

Repairing your existing windscreen or window instead of replacing it with a new one is usually cheaper and easier, but it always depends on the extent of the problem. Sometimes your auto glass technician will recommend the whole windscreen be replaced due to the type, size and position of the damage. It’s important to get the right advice from someone you trust.

Why Repair a Chip?

- Prevents further damage - Improves safety - No tampering with the original seal - Reduces the chance of failing a rego check - Cheaper and easier than glass replacement - Environmentally friendly alternative to replacement

What if my windscreen is just scratched?

Whether it’s a scratch or a chip, any damage to the glass surface can compromise its strength and become a bigger problem. Have it checked by an AGA member, who will advise your next steps.

How long does it take to repair a chip?

Around 30 to 45 minutes.

Will the glass repair be visible?

How your window looks after the repairs depends on a number of factors – namely the extent and age of the original damage. The repairs will not be completely invisible, but up to 95% optical clarity can be maintained. The area may look like a small water spot, for example.

Is the repair or replacement of my car window or windscreen covered by insurance?

If your motor insurance covers glass damage, then windscreen chip repair or replacement can usually be carried out for free, and in most cases it won't even affect your no claims bonus. Your auto glass technician can often claim directly from your insurer so the work won’t cost you a cent. It depends on your coverage though, and sometimes falls into a comprehensive insurance option that may not be part of your package. We recommend you contact your insurer for details on what’s covered before approaching an auto glass technician, and then have your details ready (policy number, etc.).

How long does it take to replace a windscreen?

It will take a professional around an hour to an hour and a half to replace a windscreen. You then have to wait about another hour for the direct glazing adhesive to dry to a safe degree. In total you should allow at least two hours before driving again.

How do I know when it’s safe to drive my car after a new window has been installed?

Ask your auto glass technician for the direct glazing adhesive manufacturer’s recommended drive away time. It is usually one to two hours.

What holds my windscreen in place?

Car manufacturers generally use a direct glazing adhesive in conjunction with a cleaner and primer to bond the glass to the car body.

How do I know if the correct glass has been used?

All glazing units fitted into your vehicle must meet the requirements of Australian Design Rule ADR 8/01 and comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS2080:2019 or equivalent International Standards. Look for a ‘compliance mark’, also known as a ‘bug’ as pictured here. Auto safety glass needs to have one to be legally compliant.

Are there auto glass technicians who will come to my home or work as I don’t think my car is safe to drive?

Yes, there are mobile auto glass technicians throughout Australia who will visit you. There are quick drying direct glazing adhesives and new portable tools that have been developed specifically for this purpose. Visit our member search for more information.

AUTOMOTIVE GLASS COMPLIANCE MARKINGS

Automotive glass marking should contain:

  • A trademark or a name of the manufacturer;
  • An official confirmation according to rules R43 ECE United Nations or the instruction 92/22/СЕЕ of states which form the EEC.

Besides designations of foreign standards to which autoglass, date of its manufacturing etc. correspond can be specified.


1. Glass type

Laminated ― a multilayered glass, Tempered ― a tempered glass

2. The expanded type of glass

I - strengthened windshield, II - standard multilayered windshield, III – worked-out multilayered windshield, IV – plastic glass, V - other (not windshield) glass with light transmission coefficient low than 70 %, V-VI - double glass with light transmission coefficient low 70 %, absence of index - glass light transmission coefficient not low than 70 %.

3. Countries have given an official confirmation of a code:

1-Germany, 2-France, 3-Italy, 4-Netherlands, 5-Sweden, 6-Belgium, 7-Hungary, 8-Czechia, 9-Spain, 10-Yugoslavia, 11-England, 12-Austria, 13-Luxembourg, 14-Switzerland, 16-Norway, 17-Finland, 18-Denmark, 19-Romania, 20-Poland, 21-Portugal, 22-Russia, 23-Greece, 24-Ireland, 25-Croatia, 26-Slovenia, 27-Slovakia, 28-Belarus, 29-Estonia, 31-Bosnia and Herzegovina, 32-Latvia, 37-Turkey, 42-EEC, 43-Japan.

4. Conformity with the American standards of safety M, AS, DOT.

5. Conformity with the European standard of safety ECE R43.

6. Number, month and year of manufacturing

the figure with points designates year, the sum of points to figure – month of manufacturing, the sum of points after figure – month of manufacturing + 6. In marking XINYI the top figure – year (9 => 2009), the sum of figures on the centre – month (1+2+8=11 => November), decimal number + the sum of remained figures below – the number of month (10+1+2+4=17)..

7. Conformity with the Chinese standard of safety CCC E000199/E000039.

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