Windshield replacement is a common service required for many Tesla owners, especially those who frequently drive on roads with potential hazards like gravel or debris. While Tesla recommends having the windshield replaced at an authorized service center, the process can also be handled by third-party auto glass repair shops. The time it takes to replace a Tesla windshield can vary depending on several factors, but in most cases, it should be completed within a single day.
Factors Affecting Windshield Replacement Time
The time it takes to replace a Tesla windshield depends on several factors:
Availability of the replacement windshield
Complexity of the repair
Workload at the service center or auto glass shop
Calibration requirements for the vehicle’s sensors and cameras
If the replacement windshield is in stock at the service center or auto glass shop, the process can be completed more quickly. However, if the windshield needs to be ordered, it may take a few days to arrive, delaying the repair.
The complexity of the repair can also impact the time required. Some windshield damage may be more challenging to remove or may require additional preparation work before the new windshield can be installed.
The workload at the service center or auto glass shop can also affect the turnaround time. If the facility is busy with other repairs, it may take longer to schedule the windshield replacement and complete the work.
Finally, Tesla vehicles are equipped with various sensors and cameras that may need to be recalibrated after a windshield replacement. This process ensures that the vehicle’s safety features, such as Autopilot, function correctly. The calibration time can vary depending on the specific model and the facility’s equipment.
Typical Windshield Replacement Time
In most cases, a Tesla windshield replacement should take approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the factors mentioned above. This includes the time required for the adhesive to cure, which typically takes around 30 minutes.
However, some Tesla owners have reported longer wait times, especially if the replacement windshield needs to be ordered or if the service center is particularly busy. In these cases, the windshield replacement may take up to a full day.
To minimize the wait time, it’s best to schedule the windshield replacement appointment in advance and ensure that the replacement windshield is available. Tesla owners can also check with their local service center or auto glass shop to get an estimate of the expected turnaround time.
Choosing a Windshield Replacement Provider
When it comes to choosing a windshield replacement provider for a Tesla, owners have a few options:
Tesla authorized service center
Third-party auto glass repair shop
Mobile windshield repair service
Tesla recommends having the windshield replaced at an authorized service center to ensure that the repair is done correctly and that the vehicle’s sensors and cameras are properly calibrated. However, some Tesla owners may prefer to use a third-party auto glass repair shop for convenience or cost reasons.
When choosing a third-party auto glass repair shop, it’s important to ensure that the technicians have experience working with Tesla vehicles and are familiar with the specific requirements for windshield replacement. Some shops may not have the necessary equipment or expertise to properly calibrate the vehicle’s sensors and cameras, which could lead to issues with the vehicle’s safety features.
Mobile windshield repair services are another option for Tesla owners who prefer the convenience of having the repair done at their location. However, it’s important to ensure that the technician is experienced in working with Tesla vehicles and has the necessary equipment to properly install the replacement windshield and calibrate the vehicle’s sensors and cameras.
Cost of Windshield Replacement
The cost of replacing a Tesla windshield can vary depending on the specific model and the provider chosen for the repair. On average, the cost of a Tesla windshield replacement ranges from $1,200 to $2,500, including labor and materials.
The cost of the replacement windshield itself can range from $600 to $1,500, depending on the model. Labor costs can range from $200 to $500, depending on the provider and the complexity of the repair.
In some cases, the cost of windshield replacement may be covered by the vehicle’s warranty or the owner’s insurance policy. Tesla owners should check with their warranty provider or insurance company to determine if they are eligible for coverage.
Overall, while the cost of replacing a Tesla windshield may be higher than for some other vehicles, it’s important to ensure that the repair is done correctly to maintain the vehicle’s safety features and performance.