Local, Independent Shops versus Big Box, Corporate Shops For Your Auto Glass Replacement Services

When you discover damage to your auto glass, the first decision you need to make is whether to go with the auto glass repair shop your insurance company pushed you towards or choose a local, family-owned auto glass shop. In this article, we will explore the differences, highlighting the pros and cons of choosing big box auto glass companies versus supporting your local auto glass shop.



Note: You have the right to choose! Your auto insurance provider cannot dictate this decision or use scare tactics to steer you towards a corporate store. You are in control of restoring your vehicle to its original or even better condition when replacing your auto glass.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Who Is Going To Do Your Auto Glass Repair or Replacement

Do They Offer FREE Mobile Auto Glass Repair Services?

Both big box and local, independent auto glass shops have access to original manufacturer quality glass. We believe it’s crucial to avoid aftermarket auto glass to ensure safety and a proper seal. When obtaining a free quote, make sure to ask about the type of windshield, car window, back glass, or sunroof glass included in the quote.

Because most large corporate shops and local shops have access to most types of auto glass. The most important factor to consider when choosing between a big box and a local auto glass shop for quality, is who will be installing the glass. Local, independent shops typically have lower employee turnover than big box shops, which often means you'll get a more experienced installer. This can vary by shop, but it's an important factor to consider. See an example of this by clicking here to a Reddit post.

When you replace a windshield, sunroof, or any auto glass, it can be costly. The last thing you need is to deal with an air leak from a poor installation a few months later. Many complaints on Reddit and other social platforms highlight issues with the small print in warranties offered by Big Box companies. In contrast, local independent shops often provide more reliable service, as they depend on repeat business and referrals, lacking the extensive marketing budgets of Big Box stores. Supporting local businesses not only ensures quality work but also strengthens your community.

Example from Safelite's website on 6/30/2024. https://www.safelite.com/national-lifetime-warranty

"DISCLAIMER"
"In some cases, through no fault of the repair technician, during the repair process the damaged area may become larger and require a windshield replacement. These instances are not covered by the warranty and Safelite is not responsible for the cost of the windshield replacement or any additional damage."

You have the right to choose the auto glass shop that best meets your needs! As a policyholder, you have the right to restore your vehicle to its original condition. Insurance companies may try to steer you toward aftermarket windshields or direct you to a Big Box company to schedule your auto glass replacement. However, you are not obligated to use a large corporate auto glass shop. Instead, conduct your own research to find the best provider for your auto glass services. Your insurance must cover any reasonable quote that restores your vehicle's glass to its original condition.

Insurance companies often have arrangements with Big Box auto glass companies. Sometimes, when you call to file a claim, you're actually speaking to a representative from a Big Box auto glass shop. To understand your rights, perform a simple Google search for "Do I Have The Right To Choose My Auto Glass Shop When Filing an Insurance Claim?" You'll likely see many Big Box names recommended by large insurance companies. This highlights the tactics big businesses use that local shops can't compete against. Supporting local businesses ensures quality service and strengthens your community. Learn about insurance claims for auto glass in North Carolina from a recent post by North Carolina Consumers Council, click here.

Don’t rely solely on the reviews posted on an auto glass shop’s website. Instead, perform a quick search on platforms like Google, Yelp, or Facebook to see what customers are really saying. This will give you a more accurate and unbiased view of the shop’s reputation and service quality. If you are in the Charlotte, NC area, check out the over 430 reviews for The Auto Glass Experts by clicking here.