A stone chip is more than just a small crack on the windscreen, small stones thrown at high speed onto the windscreen can cause punctiform damage to the windscreen. But what should you do in the event of a stone chip? You should know the following things to be prepared.
What is a stone chip?
A stone chip is more than just a minor visual problem, unlike small scratches or dents in the paintwork. This is because the original, localised impact does not remain stable. If unavoidable jolts occur while driving, the damage can spread and cracks appear. This is why you should always act quickly, as a small impact can quickly turn into a large crack in the windscreen. In addition, there is a risk of high fines if you are stopped in traffic with a damaged windscreen in the driver's field of vision.
Repair or Replacement?
In many cases, small stone chips in the windscreen can be repaired without having to replace the entire windscreen. Special repair kits are available for this purpose, which fill the damage with a special resin that becomes solid and transparent. This method is significantly cheaper than replacing the entire windscreen.
However, self-repair is only recommended if the stone chip is smaller than a two-franc coin and is at least 6 cm from the edge of the windscreen. If the stone chip is in the visible area of the windscreen, is too large or too close to the edge, the risk of a larger crack increases. In such cases - or if there is already a larger crack - it is essential to visit a workshop to replace the windscreen. It is also not possible to repair rear or side windows - in these cases, the windscreen must be replaced to ensure the safety of the vehicle.
Who pays in which case?
In the event of a stone chip, compulsory motor vehicle liability insurance does not apply as the damage was not caused by another party. The situation is different with partially comprehensive insurance. It usually covers the costs of repairing a stone chip, but not the replacement of the windscreen. In both cases, however, you will have to pay the deductible, the amount of which varies depending on the insurance policy.
If you have fully comprehensive insurance, both the repair and replacement of the windscreen are covered. Important to know: The deductible must also be paid here, unless special supplementary insurance has been taken out. It is therefore worth checking the terms and conditions of your insurance policy carefully.
You're probably wondering how much it costs to repair a stone chip. This varies greatly from case to case, but the costs are usually between CHF 100 and CHF 300 if the entire windscreen does not have to be replaced.
Conclusion
A stone chip may come as a bit of a shock at first. In most cases it is harmless at first, but if it is not repaired it can lead to major damage and high costs. Therefore, you should always have a stone chip repaired quickly and clarify the costs with your insurance company.
At Carvolution , you don’t have to worry about a stone chip. Simply report it via the Carvolution app, and we’ll contact our partner DESA AUTOGLASS, which handles stone chip repairs throughout Switzerland. You won’t have to worry about costs either – with a Carvolution car, there are no additional expenses for you. Please note, however, that although fully comprehensive insurance covers the damage, you will have to pay the excess yourself.
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