When you buy car insurance, you might assume that “fully comprehensive” means everything is covered. This includes damage to your windscreen. However, the reality is often more complex. Many policies have specific clauses or exclusions that can leave you out of pocket. Understanding these details is crucial to ensure you’re not caught by surprise when you need to make a claim.
What is Windscreen Cover?
Windscreen cover is a specific type of insurance that helps pay for repairs or replacement of your car’s windscreen. This can be for damage that is a chip, a crack, or if it’s smashed. It’s important to know that this cover can sometimes extend to other glass in your vehicle. This might include your back and side windows, and even your sunroof.
Some policies can even cover damage to your car’s bodywork or paint if the windscreen breakage causes scratches. This type of cover can also be vital if damage to your windscreen is severe enough that it could lead to a failed MOT test.
If I were in a situation where my windscreen had a chip, my first move would be to check if it’s repairable. A small repair can be much cheaper than a full replacement and might be covered by my policy without affecting my no-claims bonus.
Why Windscreen Cover Matters for UK Drivers
The cost of replacing a modern car windscreen can be surprisingly high. Some can cost as much as £2,500. This is largely due to the advanced technology integrated into many windscreens. These include sensors for features like rain sensors, lane departure warnings, and cameras for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
When a windscreen is replaced, these ADAS sensors often need to be recalibrated. This process ensures they continue to work correctly. Without proper recalibration, systems like automatic emergency braking or adaptive cruise control might not function as intended. This is a real-world complication that many drivers overlook.
In 2020, a significant 81% of insurance products did not clearly define whether windscreen recalibration cover was provided. While this has improved, around a third of products still do not clearly define this crucial aspect of cover. This lack of clarity can lead to unexpected costs for drivers.
What I’d want to be absolutely sure of is that any replacement includes the necessary recalibration. If my policy doesn’t explicitly state this, I’d consider adding specific windscreen cover or upgrading my policy to ensure it’s included.
Common Misunderstandings About Windscreen Insurance
Assuming “Fully Comprehensive” Means Full Cover
A common mistake drivers make is assuming that a “fully comprehensive” policy automatically covers all types of windscreen damage without question. While many comprehensive policies do include windscreen cover, this is not always the case. The extent of this cover can vary significantly between insurers and even between different products from the same insurer. You might find that only repairs are covered, not replacements, or that a significant excess applies.
Ignoring the ‘Market Value’ Clause
Just under half of all comprehensive insurance products now apply a ‘market value’ clause for windscreen replacements. This means that instead of paying the full cost of a new windscreen, the insurer might only pay what they deem the windscreen to be worth at the time of the claim. This can leave you with a substantial shortfall, especially for newer vehicles with expensive, high-tech windscreens.
Overlooking the Cost of Repairs vs. Replacements
Many drivers don’t realise the cost difference between repairing a small chip and replacing an entire windscreen. Repairing a small chip can cost around £50. However, a full replacement, as mentioned, can run into thousands. Some policies might cover the cost of repair without affecting your no-claims bonus, but a replacement might incur an excess or even lead to the loss of your no-claims bonus if not specifically covered.
Not Checking for Exclusions
Windscreen insurance typically excludes cover for damage caused deliberately by the policyholder, through careless driving, or resulting from wear and tear. Damage to lights and reflectors is also usually not covered. If you rely on your standard insurance for windscreen issues and a claim is rejected due to an exclusion, you’ll have to pay the full cost yourself. In that situation, I’d want to have a clear understanding of these exclusions before any incident occurs, so I know exactly what I’m covered for.
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| Policy Type | Full Replacement Cover (2020) | Full Replacement Cover (2024) | Market Value Clause (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive | 69% | 48% | Just under half |
Steps to Ensure Your Windscreen is Protected
Review Your Current Policy Documents
The first and most important step is to carefully read your current car insurance policy documents. Look for specific sections detailing windscreen cover. Pay close attention to whether it covers repairs, replacements, or both. Also, note any excess you might have to pay for a windscreen claim.
Understand ADAS Recalibration Coverage
If your car is fitted with ADAS, you must verify that your policy covers the recalibration of sensors after a windscreen replacement. In 2020, 81% of insurance products didn’t clearly define this. While the situation has improved, it’s still a common area of confusion. If your current policy doesn’t mention it, you should clarify with your insurer.
Consider an Add-On Windscreen Policy
If your existing comprehensive policy doesn’t offer adequate windscreen cover, or if you have a third-party policy, you can often purchase windscreen cover as a paid add-on. This typically costs between £20 and £30 for the year. This can be a cost-effective way to ensure you’re protected against expensive repairs or replacements. If I were in this position, I’d weigh the annual cost of the add-on against the potential cost of a replacement and the risk of losing my no-claims bonus.
Know What’s Not Covered
Be aware of the common exclusions. Damage caused by wear and tear, deliberate acts, or careless driving is usually not covered. Also, damage to lights and reflectors is typically excluded. Understanding these limitations helps manage expectations and avoid disappointment during a claim.
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For drivers concerned about protecting their vehicle, a dash cam can offer an additional layer of security and evidence. The Garmin Dash Cam X310 offers 4K recording and a wide-angle lens, which can be invaluable in documenting incidents, including those that might involve windscreen damage or accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Windscreen Cover
Does fully comprehensive insurance always cover my windscreen? ▾
What is the cost of windscreen cover? ▾
What if my windscreen has a small chip? ▾
Does windscreen cover include ADAS recalibration? ▾
What damage is typically excluded from windscreen cover? ▾
Understanding your car insurance policy, especially regarding windscreen cover, is vital. By taking the time to read the fine print and consider add-on options, you can avoid unexpected costs and ensure your vehicle is properly protected. If this was useful, you might also want to read Tips for Comparing Car Insurance Prices in the UK.
Sources and Further Reading
Does Fully Comp Mean Your Windscreen is Covered? Maybe Not! — Insurance Edge, 2024.
Does Fully Comp Mean Your Windscreen is Covered? Maybe Not! — Insurance Edge, 2024.
Windscreen Cover. MoneySuperMarket.
Tips for Comparing Car Insurance Prices in the UK — This article offers practical advice on how to navigate the car insurance market effectively, helping you find the best deals.
How to Compare Car Insurance Quotes in the UK — Learn the essential steps to compare quotes and ensure you’re getting the right cover for your needs.
