DIY Windshield Repair Kits: Are They Worth It?

August 15, 2025
Premiere Auto Glass

DIY windshield repair kits have become increasingly popular among car owners looking to save money and time on minor windshield damage. For many drivers in cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, or Salt Lake City, small chips and cracks are an unavoidable part of life. But should you really trust a $20 kit from a local auto parts store instead of visiting a professional like Premiere Auto Glass?

According to the National Windshield Repair Association, over 14 million windshields are replaced every year in the United States, but many could have been repaired instead, saving drivers up to 75% in costs.

Let’s take a detailed look at how these kits work, their pros and cons, and when it’s worth calling in a professional.

Understanding DIY Windshield Repair Kits

A typical kit contains resin, an applicator, curing strips, and sometimes a small razor blade for scraping excess resin. The concept is simple: inject resin into the chip or crack, let it cure, and smooth the surface.

You can find these kits at Amazon, AutoZone, Walmart, and many other retailers. They are marketed as quick, affordable solutions for chips smaller than a quarter or cracks shorter than 6 inches.

A AAA survey found that the average cost of a professional windshield repair is around $60, while a DIY kit can cost between $10–$30.

The Benefits of DIY Kits

1. Lower Cost

The main appeal of DIY kits is affordability. Spending $15 on a kit from O’Reilly Auto Parts is much cheaper than visiting a repair shop.

2. Convenience

You can repair the damage in your own driveway without scheduling an appointment. For busy people, this is a major advantage.

3. Speed

Most repairs can be completed in under an hour, compared to potentially waiting days for a shop appointment.

The Limitations of DIY Kits

While they sound great in theory, there are several drawbacks to consider.

1. Limited Damage Capability

DIY kits are best for very small chips or hairline cracks. Anything larger typically requires professional intervention.

Safelite AutoGlass recommends professional repair for cracks longer than 6 inches or chips larger than a quarter.

2. Skill and Precision Required

Although marketed as easy to use, achieving a truly invisible repair requires experience. An improper application can make the damage worse or even spread the crack.

3. No Guarantee of Durability

Professionals use stronger resin and advanced curing equipment, ensuring repairs last longer. DIY kits often provide temporary fixes that may fail in extreme weather conditions.

Glass.com reports that improper repairs can reduce windshield strength by up to 60%, increasing the risk in an accident.

Comparing DIY vs. Professional Repairs

Factor	DIY Kit	Professional Repair
Cost	$10–$30	$50–$150
Time	30–60 min	30–60 min
Durability	Temporary in some cases	Long-lasting
Aesthetic Quality	May leave visible blemish	Almost invisible
Warranty	None	Often lifetime warranty

If your windshield damage is minimal and you’re confident in your repair skills, a DIY kit from Rain-X or Permatex could work. But if the chip is in your line of sight or the crack is growing, it’s best to call Premiere Auto Glass.

Step-by-Step Guide: Using a DIY Windshield Repair Kit

Clean the Area – Remove dirt, dust, and moisture. A microfiber cloth and invisible glass cleaner work well.
Position the Applicator – Place it directly over the chip or crack.
Inject the Resin – Follow the kit instructions carefully to avoid air bubbles.
Cure with UV Light – Let the resin harden in sunlight or with a UV lamp.
Remove Excess Resin – Use the included razor blade for a smooth finish.

According to CarCare.org, addressing chips immediately can prevent 80–90% of them from spreading into larger cracks.

When You Should Skip DIY Kits

Damage in Driver’s Line of Sight – Any imperfection can distort vision.
Cracks at the Edge of the Windshield – These weaken structural integrity.
Multiple Chips or Large Cracks – Better handled by a pro.
If the Windshield Has a Rain Sensor or Camera – Calibration may be needed after repair.

The Risk of Waiting

Windshield chips can quickly turn into full cracks due to temperature changes, vibrations, or even a bump in the road. In Utah or Colorado, where winter mornings can be freezing and afternoons sunny, the expansion and contraction of glass makes damage worse.

Insurance Journal notes that auto glass claims are among the most common insurance claims in the U.S., accounting for 30% of all auto-related claims.

Insurance Coverage for Windshield Repair

Many insurance companies, including State Farm, GEICO, and Progressive, cover chip repairs at no cost to you. That means you might be able to get a professional repair for free instead of risking a DIY job.

Conclusion

DIY windshield repair kits can be a cost-effective solution for very minor damage, but they have their limits. If the chip or crack is small, not in your direct line of sight, and you follow instructions carefully, you might save time and money. However, for larger cracks, damage near the windshield edges, or any situation where safety is at stake, visiting a professional like Premiere Auto Glass is the best choice. Professionals have the tools, experience, and materials to ensure the repair is strong, safe, and long-lasting—often with a warranty for peace of mind.

FAQs

1. Can a DIY windshield repair kit fix a long crack?
No, they are only suitable for small chips and cracks under 6 inches.

2. Will a DIY kit make the damage invisible?
It can improve appearance, but often a slight blemish remains.

3. Are professional repairs safer?
Yes, they restore structural integrity better than DIY kits.

4. How soon should I repair a chip?
As soon as possible—ideally within 24–48 hours.

5. Does insurance cover windshield repair?
Often yes, many insurers cover it with no deductible.