A cracked windscreen or broken windscreen can be more than just an inconvenience—it can compromise your safety on the road. Whether it’s a tiny chip or a large crack across the glass, many car owners in Malaysia are unsure whether to repair or replace it. If you’re facing this issue, here’s everything you need to know, including your options, costs, and insurance coverage.
What Causes Windscreen Cracks or Breakage?
Windscreens are built to be tough, but they’re not invincible. Common causes include:
- Flying stones or road debris
- Sudden temperature changes (especially after heavy rain or heat)
- Minor accidents or bumper-to-bumper impacts
- Poor installation or defective glass
Even a small crack in your windscreen can grow bigger with time, especially if you continue driving or go over bumps.
Is It Safe to Drive With a Cracked Windscreen?
In short—no.
Even small windscreen cracks can:
- Obstruct your vision
- Reduce structural integrity of the car
- Weaken during airbag deployment
- Be illegal if it’s in the driver’s line of sight
For your safety and legal protection, it’s best to fix the problem as soon as you spot it.
Repair or Replace: How to Decide?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide whether to repair or replace your windscreen:
| Condition | Action |
|---|---|
| Small chip (less than a 25 sen coin) | Repair |
| Crack shorter than 6 inches | Possible repair |
| Crack longer than 6 inches or in driver’s line of sight | Replace |
| Multiple cracks or shattered glass | Replace |
If you’re unsure, it’s best to let a professional assess it.
How Much Does It Cost in Malaysia?
Repairing a cracked windscreen may cost between RM100–RM200, depending on severity. Replacing it, however, could range from RM400 to over RM1,000, especially for vehicles with sensors or high-end features.
But here’s the good news—most comprehensive car insurance policies in Malaysia cover windscreen repair or replacement, if you’ve added on windscreen coverage.
Does Insurance Cover Windscreen Damage?
Yes, if you’ve added windscreen coverage to your insurance policy.
Windscreen coverage usually includes:
- Front windscreen
- Rear glass
- Side windows
- Sunroof (if applicable)
With windscreen add-on, you won’t lose your No Claim Discount (NCD) when you claim for a replacement.
🔗 Need to renew insurance with windscreen coverage? Click here
How to Claim Windscreen Insurance?
Here’s how it usually works:
- Take a photo of the damage
- Visit a panel workshop or your insurance provider’s windscreen panel
- Get the quotation and submit the claim
- The workshop will do the paperwork and repair or replace your windscreen
Most repairs can be completed within the same day, and some providers even offer mobile repair services at your home.
What If I Don’t Have Windscreen Coverage?
If you don’t have this add-on, you’ll have to bear the full cost yourself. But don’t worry—you can easily add windscreen coverage during your next renewal. Platforms like MetaFin make it simple to compare and choose coverage that includes windscreen protection with just a few taps.
🛠️ Tip: You can get coverage for just RM70–RM150/year depending on the value of your windscreen.
Internal Tip: How to Check If You Already Have Coverage
If you’ve previously bought your insurance online or through agents and forgot to check, you can:
- Look at your insurance cover note
- Ask your insurance provider
- Use platforms like MetaFin to retrieve past insurance details using your car plate number
🔗 Check past insurance instantly with MyCarInfo
External Resources
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a tiny crack or a completely broken windscreen, don’t wait too long to take action. What starts as a minor problem can quickly turn into a costly and dangerous issue. Check your coverage, compare repair costs, and consider adding windscreen protection during your next insurance renewal.
Using platforms like MetaFin can help you renew your car insurance, add windscreen coverage, and even have your road tax delivered—all in one place.