How to avoid Scarborough Auto Glass repair scams

Whether a rock appears out of thin air, or if you end up being the victim of an act of vandalism, windshield cracks and chips are quite common. If the chip is in a very inconvenient place on the glass, you have to have it repaired immediately. In your eagerness, you have to avoid falling prey to an auto glass scam artist. According to many Scarborough Auto Glass experts, most mechanics and repair men in the industry are generally honest. Unfortunately, every batch has its bad apples. Even in well known and respected repair shops there are fraudulent repairmen that will take you for a spin if you do not keep an eye open. Here are some ways you can watch out for potential con men.

Know the Difference: Windshield Repair vs. Replacement

As many Scarborough Auto Glass technicians have said, if the mechanic looks at the glass and his first reaction is to tell you that the chip is un repairable, go see another mechanic for a second opinion. Most auto glass scam artists use lines like, '8 out of 10' cracks cannot be repaired. In your case, that may be true, but in most cases, professionals can handle almost any kind of chip or crack. Get a second opinion from a reputable garage before you decide to change your windshield all together. Also, watch out for terms like, 'It can be repaired but you will not like what it looks like after'. This is another common trick used to fool customers. The mechanic will charge a high price to fix the crack but will intentionally do a lack luster job. Then, they will suggest that the money you already spent on the repair will go towards a windshield replacement. These are complete lies. The adhesive used to repair car windows have the same refractive index as the windshield. Once repaired properly, a chip or crack is invisible. If after a repair, you can still see fault lines, than the mechanic did something wrong. Most scam artists take this approach, instead of suggesting a replacement from the get go. If they ask you to change the glass immediately, you might put your guard up. So they give you a high price for the repair, hoping you would opt for a replacement. If you still do not budge, they will intentionally mess up the repair job. Once the windshield is further damaged, you will have no choice but to go with a replacement. To avoid being scammed, always get a second opinion if the repairman asks for a high price or requests a windshield replacement. If the price is too low, do the same thing. With the cost of labour and the type of work that needs to be done, there is a certain price threshold. A price too low may indicate a jack of all trades looking to make something extra on the side. 

Appearance is Key

 Auto glass repair shops are usually located in industrial areas. Most of them look shabby, greasy and at times downright unsanitary. Repairmen are supposed to look grimy and rugged. A lot of times, these places have the best mechanics and best possible deals. Even still, try to avoid places without a proper, well organized front desk. The shop does not need flashy uniforms or posh counter tops, just try to avoid the absolute bottom of the barrel establishment that also moonlights as a chop shop. Do not trust someone who works out of the back of a truck.  Chose a shop online or one which has been recommended to you by someone you trust. Never, ever trust someone who approaches you at a car wash or in the parking lot. It is an easy marketing method but almost every single time, they are usually scams. You do not need any immediate repairs but a fraudster will approach you at the car wash and pitch you a long winding story as to why you need to have your car looked at.  Many windshield scam artists go to local neighbourhoods and knock on peoples doors. If you see these people, try to keep your car in the garage. There have been instances where such individuals intentionally damage your windshield before approaching you. These fraudsters usually try to entice you by offering gift vouchers and tickets. Even if the offer sounds goods, stay clear, reputable auto shops always look to expand and build their business through repeat clientele. They have websites and marketing campaigns but the majority of their business comes through referrals and through good solid work that keeps customers satisfied.

Insurance Coverage

Dishonest repairmen will always tell you that you insurance will cover everything. This is just a trick. Once they get their hands on your insurance information, they can charge sky high repair costs to cover their shoddy work. They can even make claims for unnecessary repairs and in some cases for work they have not even done. Every time you make an insurance claim for a repair or when a scammer makes the claim, your insurance premium rises. If you have made other claims recently, you may end up filing too many and lose your policy or the insurance company may force you to upgrade your plan. If claims are widespread, the premiums could rise for everyone across the board. This may sound farfetched, but according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, between 2009 and 2010, auto glass fraud shot up by 527%. With so many scams operating in the industry there is a very possible chance that insurance premiums may rise for everyone. The financial problems associated with this are bad enough, but you could even be jailed for fraudulent insurance claims. So, when a repairman says that your insurance will cover all the costs or is eager to get your insurance information, be very diligent. Make sure you are dealing with true professionals, who are not out to rip you off. The shop may also make a claim that it is the only one authorized by your insurance company to make repairs. Do not take their word for it and double check with your insurance company.

Certification

 As mentioned before, grimy repair shops often have the best mechanics and the most satisfying deals. If you do find one such shop, always look at the certification of the mechanics. The sign of an uncertified mechanic is one who offers to keep all the repairs of the books. There is no reason for a mechanic to make such a suggestion. This is a choice that should only be up to the customer. Even if you are at a really nice place, ask to see their certification if it is not on the wall in their waiting area. Do this whenever you go to a new mechanic or someone you have never worked with before.

In Conclusion

A mechanic, who practices fraudulent activities, is someone who is not well versed in auto repairs. They will probably do a horrendous job and make a real mess of it. The windshield pays a vital part in the deployment of the airbags, if it is not replaced properly, it could pop out during a collision or if the job was done really poorly it could pop out while you are driving. Windshield repairs and chips have to be repaired perfectly. The windshield holds the weight of the car's roof and acts as added protection, especially in a head on collision. The crack has to be repaired in such a way that the structural integrity of the windshield remains the same as the day it first came of the production line. So, these auto glass con men do not just impact you financially but could affect your physical health. Only a trained expert  should repair your auto glass.

    

TORONTO AUTO GLASS REPAIR COST

The cost associated with repairing your windshield is certainly a not fixed amount. It depends on the Toronto auto glass shop you choose to visit, the severity of damage and most importantly, the type of repair that is needed.

Auto Glass Repair: Average Costs

The price range depends on the following factors:

• The type of glass you choose
• The type of damage that needs to be fixed
• The brand of service you decide to choose
• The type of vehicle you have
• The location of the crack

Due to the fact that windshield replacement costs more than windshield repair , Toronto auto glass workers will work hard to repair your windshield as opposed to replacing it.

Replacing the rear or front auto glass is the most expensive repair.  For all vehicle types, the total costs averages at around $300.

Auto Glass Replacement Costs: Back of the Windshield

The average cost to replace the back windshield starts at $100 and goes up to around $300. Despite contrary belief, replacing the back windshield is just as important as replacing the front windshield. Leaving it damaged is extremely harmful to both you and your passengers.

According to social media news, thousands of accidents occur on a monthly basis. In saying that, it’s extremely imperative for you to strive to operate a vehicle that will protect you and your passengers at all times. Your vehicle cannot completely protect you from anything if your auto glass is not intact.

During rollover accidents, your back windshield prevents your passengers from being ejected. Regardless of the speed in which you are going, anybody can end up passing away once they are ejected from a moving vehicle. That being said, you should never leave a crack or chip in your windshield for too long. Take your vehicle toreputable auto glass shop as soon as possible.

Auto Glass Replacement Costs: Front of the Windshield

On average, it costs around $300 to replace the front of your windshield. If the crack is less than 24 inches in length, it can be easily repaired by an auto glass changers technician. Once the length of the crack exceeds 24 inches, it must be replaced.

Whether your crack is big or small, it should be taken care of by an expert. In most cases, the option to receivemobile services all day long is made available. With this service, you can avoid driving an unsafe vehicle.

Just like the back, the front windshield serves many safety purposes. It is attached to the air bag, which means, if it is damaged, there is a chance that your airbag will not deploy. This could lead to serious injury or death. In addition to this, your front windshield stops the roof of your car from collapsing on your head during rollover accidents. Rollover accidents occur over 300 times per month in the Toronto area.

Below, we will highlight the average costs of a windshield replacement, depending on your vehicle. 

Auto Glass Replacement Costs: Vehicle Type

The type of vehicle you own has an effect on the average cost of auto glass repairs.

Auto Glass Repair Costs: Cracks and Chips

Windshield cracks and chips are very common in the Greater Toronto Area. Stone chip repairs are required when there is a scratch or crack on the surface of your auto glass. This is mainly caused when flying debris, such as rocks, hit your windshield.

A repair of this kind costs around $20-$60. The price difference is due to the type of auto glass that needs to be repaired and the size of your crack or chip. Any crack or chip that is around one to two feet in length will cost you around $60-$70 to repair. The cracks and chips that are up to one foot in length will cost you around $50-$60 to repair.

Auto Glass Repair Costs: With Insurance Coverage 

Many people are unaware of the fact that their insurance provider may be able to cover the full cost of their auto glass repairs. Ultimately, you will need to call your insurance provider in order to see if they will cover all costs for you. But, before you do that, we will help you to understand what your options are as pointed below:

• If your existing windshield needs to be replaced in Toronto, your insurance provider will more than likely cover the cost. However, you may be required to pay some extra costs, such as, a deductible. If you have coverage, and the cost to replace your windshield is below you deductible, you will be required to pay the outstanding balance. In cases like these, people tend to pay out of pocket instead of paying through their insurance company.

• If your existing windshield needs to be repaired, it will most likely be free of charge.

Auto Glass Repair: Additional Costs

Sometimes, there are additional costs in which you have to pay. Certain vehicles have special moulding, and as a result, the auto glass you repair will also need the same material in order to match the overall structural design of your vehicle. This could end up resulting in a 20% increase in costs. In addition to this, it costs around $10-$20 if you need new windshield wipers. If your auto glass was tinted, it could cost you anywhere from $99-$400.

In Conclusion

Repairing your auto glass is an investment that you will benefit from. It is imperative for you to operate a vehicle that is safe for you, in residents of Toronto with your passengers. If your auto glass is damaged, call a reputable technician today.

The Top Auto Glass Repair Myths

As a vehicle owner, you’ve probably heard a large amount of stories about auto glass. Of those many stores, more than half are most likely fake, and if you’re not a Toronto auto glass expert, it’ll be hard to spot the myths from the facts. In saying that, we’ve decided to unleash some of the most popular auto glass myths:

1.       You have to visit your car dealership if your windshield breaks.

The only time you should ever do this is if the car dealership is the only store open and you need your glass to be repaired as soon as possible. It’s a proven fact that car dealerships charge 2x more than average Toronto auto glass shops. In order for you to save money, you need to visit a reputable shop that has a proven track record of success. Our technicians use the top windshield repair techniques.

2.       The auto glass repair process takes hours.

Many people opt out of receiving repairs due to the fact that they believe it takes forever to fix. This is a popular myth that should be put to an end today. It typically takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour for a technician to repair and/or replace your windshield. By the time you’re done your lunch, your car will be good to go.

3.       If you have a small crack/chip, you must replace your entire windshield.

Small cracks or chips can easily be repaired. The process of replacing your entire windshield comes into play when the crack/chip is over 9 inches long. You should never avoid the idea of visiting an auto glass shop simply because you believe you need a full replacement.

4.       Insurance companies don’t provide windshield repair coverage.

This is not true at all. Depending on your coverage plan, your insurance provider may be able to cover half, if not the full cost of your bill. Give them a call and ask them if they’ll be able to decrease the overall costs.

5.       Your monthly insurance rate will rise.

Many people believe a broken windshield is equivalent to being involved in a car accident. This is certainly not true. If your windshield breaks, don’t hesitate to report it to your insurance provider. Your driving record won’t be affected at all.

6.       It costs a lot to repair a windshield.

You’d be surprised by the quote you receive from our experts . Repairing your windshield isn’t as much as people say it is. In fact, some jobs will only cost around $30. The investment is well worth it.

7.       I won’t get a ticket for driving around with a damaged windshield.

A lot of drivers don’t really understand the importance of operating a vehicle that is 100% safe. Police officers are cracking down on drivers who fail to drive vehicles that are safe and reliable. If your windshield has a crack in it, you won’t even be able to renew your license. Each year, you must pass an e-mission and safety test in order to operate your vehicle. If your windshield is cracked, you will fail. Avoid high ticket costs by repairing your windshield today.

Remain Updated

When you hear auto glass stories, always double check the reliability of them by contacting a professional.  

Do you know whether you should get an auto glass repair or replacement?

Auto Glass Repair or Replacement?

One of the first questions that comes up very often after a windshield damage is whether to repair it or replace it. Originally, damaged windshields had to be replaced. This practice was very expensive, so windshield repair became common. According to Scarborough auto glass google data, most insurance companies will give you the option of repairing a windshield for free, instead of replacing it (in which case you might have a deductible to pay). Commonly, if the windshield repair is smaller than 6″ long, it can be repaired (and that chips/dings fitting can be repaired). There are 2 companies, Ultra Bond and ETOK that have a product which can repair cracks up to 24″ long. Repairing is often desirable because it keeps the original factory windshield the same. Repairing also prevents the old windshield from being thrown out, saving more money in your pocket and environment friendly.

Repairing the windshield costs about $60 and up for the first chip, plus about $15 to $25 per additional chip. Auto glass cracks can be more expensive depending on the length, up to about $200 to $250. Windshield replacement is significantly more expensive with the average price being reported as $550. You must also consider that the price can be well over $1500.00 if branded windshield is used. Try to check for marking that has information about the piece of glass and who manufactured it. Since we couldn’t find any good reference out there, we started questioning Scarborough auto glass team of experts from auto glass changers. According to them majority of car windshields are required to have a DOT (Department of Transportation) code on them.Ontario Motor Vehicle Council (OMVIC) have a lot of cases in regards to the windshield and vehicle glass which I thought would be helpful for you to read.

When a windshield is replaced, 30 minutes’ drive away times are common. However, it can take 8-24 hours for the adhesive to fully dry. This means that in some types of collisions such as rollovers or head-on, the windshield could pop off, causing the roof to crush more easily, or airbags not to function properly as you are using the windshield for support. Cracks on the glass are also the results of chips which were left not repaired and grew into a larger problem. The google data reports about Whitby Auto Glass that auto glass standards require 100 percent windshield retention in frontal barrier crash tests, while DOT only requires 80 percent, and that some aftermarket parts do not match the tolerance, thickness, and shape of auto glass changers parts. Therefore, they can have a higher rate of leakage, wind noise, imperfect fit, solar performance and optical distortion which will be very costly for replacement. The question of repair vs replacement depends to the situation and condition of the damage. In my opinion is better to read more and ask frequent questions as the concept of vehicle manufacturing is changing every year. Majority of auto manufactures in USA use their own parts as the percentage is less with the European, Japanese and Korean auto industry. If you want to look up a part number for a recent model year car, you can do so from the corner side of the door with complete specifications. Read more of our blogs as next time I will write you some good hints in regards to preventing the problem before it happens.

Facts About Window Tint

Many people visit their local Toronto auto glass shop in order to tint their windows for aesthetic purposes only. It seems as though window tint nowadays is only associated with the fact that it looks “cooler” than the factory shade that is applied to your auto glass. What is your take on window tint? Do you know what some of the main window tint facts are? We’ll discuss this below.

The True Facts

Window tint was introduced in 1966 by a lad named Madico. In the beginning its sole purpose was to protect the car’s uphoulstery from the sun’s UV rays. It has been said by many Toronto auto glass experts that installing window tint increases the lifespan of your interior fabric by 65%. Window tint may be seen as something that is merely appealing; however it also serves many safety purposes. Did you know that in the event of an accident, your window is less likely to shatter if it is tinted? The tint in your windows can effectively hold your glass together, allowing it to refrain from shattering easily upon impact. This is a feature that is not normally discussed among vehicle owners. During the summer months, your window tint does a great job at keeping the interior portion of your car nice and cool. If you have leather seats, you can avoid the burning sensation that comes along with entering a car that has been sitting in the hot sun for hours. In addition to this, your steering wheel and other components will remain at a temperature that isn’t too uncomfortable to touch.  Window tint can last years if you choose to install one that is of the highest quality. The best tints don’t chip off after a few washes, they stay intact and remain looking brand new. If your window tint does begin to chip, you should immediately visit your nearest auto glass store. The technicians will effectively repair it in a short amount of time. It’s important for you to learn about the many window tinting laws. In most cases, your auto glass professional will warn you if they feel as though you are requesting a tint that is too dark. You shouldn’t only study laws that have been put in your region – but to other regions that you decide to travel to as well. If you live in Toronto, and travel to Montreal, you can receive a ticket from a police offer in Montreal if your window tint is too dark. You can surely attempt to fight the ticket, however, the fact that you don’t live where you got a ticket isn’t a valid excuse to be exempt from all charges. The charge can be upwards of $200 if your window tint is too dark. If you do choose to tint your windows, you should always go to a professional. Cheap services are often advertised by people who make it their hobby to watch online videos that are not detailed enough. You need someone who is qualified and certified if you’d like to experience the true benefits of window tint. High quality window tint does a great job at blocking out harmful rays that are omitted from the sun, whereas low quality don’t. If you are constantly exposed to the sun’s UV rays while you are trying, you could be a victim of cancer. As you can see, window tint has many benefits and our experts can install it for you in no time. Auto glass technicians would also like to let you know why repairing your windshield is better than getting a full replacement.

Why Repairing Your Windshield is Better than Getting a Full Replacement

Many people believe they’re better off getting a completely new windshield instead of simply repairing their crack or chip. If your North York auto glass expert is able to repair your windshield, you should definitely go with that option as opposed to requesting for a full replacement. We’ll explain why below.

First off, the difference in cost when it comes to repair and replacement is very drastic. You can end up spending hundreds of dollars for a full replacement and around $30 for a simple repair. The reason for the increase in price for a full windshield repair is due to many things. The North York auto glass experts have to spend more time working on your car (which increases labour costs), and they need to order a new windshield that will work with your car. Another downfall of repairing your complete windshield is that you don’t get the original factory auto glass that it came with. Car manufacturers use specific types of auto glass on specific models. There’s actually a special seal that is embedded into factory windshields which prevents fog from obstructing your view. As soon as your windshield is replaced, the handy factory seal is also removed. Regardless of how reputable your local auto glass shop is, they may not be able to guarantee that your new windshield is an effective as the old one. You are still safe, but your old windshield still would have been a better choice. If your windshield is cracked or chipped, this doesn’t affect your factory seal. All the technicians need to do is simply repair the damage and you’re good to go.  If you do happen to notice a crack or chip in your windshield, you should always take it into a shop as soon as possible. There are a lot of things that can prevent your crack of chip from staying the same size. In the Toronto area, there are many factors that contribute to the possibility of your windshield becoming more damaged than it already is. The weather, flying debris, and the chances of getting into an accident can all increase the chances of your small chip turning into a large crack. Your auto glass expert won’t always have the ability to repair your crack. If it is longer than 9 inches, or even in certain areas on the glass, you’ll unfortunately need to replace the entire glass. Once you have a damaged windshield, it evidentially no longer looks appealing. A skilled auto glass team can effectively repair your windshield, allowing it to look brand new again. They use high quality resin for the purpose of ensuring your auto glass remains intact and durable. The best thing to do is to repair your current windshield so that you can keep all of the features that came with your factory glass. When you are searching for an auto glass repair shop, it is imperative for you to do your research. Always look up reviews and ensure the technicians are skilled and reputable. If you’ve never heard of the company before and you can’t find any reviews online, you can use them at your own risk. However, it is highly recommended for you to use a company that is well known or proven to do a great job. Some auto glass workers may push you to get a full repair because you end up paying more. But, if you enter a reputable shop, you won’t have to worry about the many windshield repair scams. You should know how to Decrease Your Chances of Requiring Extensive Auto Glass Repairs.

HOW TO DECREASE YOUR CHANGES OF EXTENSIVE MISSISSAUGA AUTO GLASS

Mississauga auto glass experts often come across a plethora of situations during their shifts. Most of which include customers who unfortunately need a full windshield repair as opposed to a minor fix. The cost between the two services is fairly dramatic due to the fact that a full replacement requires for the auto glass experts to do more work and order supplies. While you are cruising along the streets of the Greater Toronto Area, there are many things that could possibly lead to a damaged windshield. Experts would like to inform you of what those things are and how you can avoid them.

Although there are certain situations that you just can’t avoid (such as a rock flying into your windshield), you can still take preventative measures in order to reduce your chances of requiring a full windshield repair. In most cases, Mississauga auto glass workers can only repair cracks that are less than nine inches in length. A simple crack repair can cost around $30 whereas the full windshield replacement is around $200 and up. The most common mistake made by many vehicle owners is the act of leaving a crack in your windshield for too long. This evidently leads to your crack increasing in size, which then leads to you requiring a full repair. You should always repair damages as soon as possible to that you can avoid costly fees. The same rule applies when it comes to your side and rear view windows. Another common mistake that is unfortunately made by many residents is the Greater Toronto Area is the act of leaving valuables in plain sight. Even if you have tinted windows, or you feel as though you’re in a “safe” area, you should always refrain from leaving your valuables in the car. If you do choose to leave your items of value in the car, always hide them. Last year alone, over 30,000 car windows and windshields were smashed so that the culprit could break into the car and steal valuables. If you unfortunately parked in a space where there are no surveillance cameras, you will have to explain your case to both the judge and your insurance company so that they can ensure it’s a true story. On top of that, you’ll have to visit your local auto glass store for repairs. In some cases, your insurance company will cover the damages – but, you must call them and see if you’re actually covered. Always remember to keep your valuables safe! In most parking lots there are signs up that read, “we are not responsible for lost or stolen items!” The main reason for this is, many people have tried to blame or sue malls and other commercial properties due to the fact that their items were stolen. It is imperative for you to note that you are the only person responsible for your items. So, in order to avoid the costly repairs that are associated with auto glass damage, never leave your valuables in plain sight. Driving too close to huge trucks can also lead to damaged auto glass. It has been proven that trucks spew out both large and small rocks from the road. If you are driving at a close proximity to these vehicles, there is a high chance that you will end up with damaged auto glass. It is imperative for you to take precaution during your travels, especially in the winter time. Find out why winter is the worst time to leave a crack in your windshield.