It was 95°F outside. I was steam cleaning the interior of a Honda. I hit the inside of the windshield with the steamer to blast the vents. CRACK. A spiderweb fracture exploded across the glass. The customer wants a new OEM windshield ($1,200) because it has “Honda Sensing” cameras.
Key Takeaways
- Thermal Shock is “Accidental Damage”: This is a textbook Garage Keepers claim. You caused damage to the vehicle while it was in your care.
- The Deductible Problem: The replacement cost ($1,200) is close to the deductible ($500 or $1,000). Filing a claim may not be worth the resulting premium increase.
- Workmanship Exclusion Risk: An aggressive adjuster might argue “You shouldn’t use steam on hot glass,” classifying it as Faulty Workmanship (excluded). You must argue it was accidental/sudden.
- Calibration Costs: Modern windshields require ADAS (camera) calibration. This adds
400−400−600 to the bill. Insurance covers this, but cash buyers often forget it.
The “Why” (The Trap): Physics vs. Negligence
Trap: You used a tool (steamer) improperly on a sensitive surface.
Exclusion: “Damage arising out of operations performed.”
Defense: “I was cleaning the dash, and the steam accidentally hit the glass.” (Accident).
If you say, “I was cleaning the glass with steam,” you admitted to poor technique (workmanship).
The Investigation: “I Called Them”
I priced out the windshield claim.
1. Safelite (Cash)
- Quote: $450 for glass + $400 for calibration = $850.
- Verdict: If your deductible is $1,000, you pay this 100% out of pocket.
2. Garage Keepers Claim
- Verdict: Covered, but counts as a claim.
- Impact: Rates likely increase 10% next year.
Comparison Table: Glass Damage
| Method | Cost to You | Record Impact |
| Insurance Claim | Deductible ($500) | Negative |
| Cash Pay (Safelite) | $850 | None |
| Glass Coverage (Customer’s) | $0 (If they have $0 ded) | None (But unethical to ask) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Don’t Steam Glass: Change your process. Use glass cleaner and towels. Steam is too risky on laminated glass.
- Check Temperature: If the glass is hot to the touch, let it cool or run the AC before cleaning.
- Negotiate Cash Price: Call a local glass shop (not the big chain). Ask for a trade/wholesale price. You can often get it done for $500 total.
- Avoid the Customer’s Insurance: Asking them to claim it on their “Glass Coverage” is risky. If they tell their insurer “The detailer broke it,” their insurer will subrogate against you anyway.
FAQ
Q: Can I repair the crack?
A: If it’s longer than a dollar bill, no. It must be replaced.
Q: Why does the camera need calibration?
A: The camera looks through the glass. If the new glass has a slightly different curve, the automatic braking might fail. Liability risk!
[IMAGE: Photo of a windshield with a “thermal stress crack” starting from the bottom edge.]