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can you pass inspection with a cracked windshield​

Can You Pass a Car Inspection With a Cracked Windshield?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Glass Repair, Tips and Advice.

Many drivers requiring auto collision repair in Tucson, AZ, have damage to their car’s windshield. What happens if you don’t address the damage when your car needs to undergo inspection? Can you pass an inspection with a cracked windshield?

Discover key information about passing a car inspection with cracked glass features and what you should do if your windshield incurs damage.

Understand Federal and Local Windshield Crack Rules for Vehicle Inspections

Will a cracked windshield fail inspection? The answer depends on the size and location of the damage, per federal requirements. The national guidelines state that vehicles will fail inspection if they meet any of the following criteria:

  • A crack is larger than 3/4th of an inch in diameter.
  • There are multiple cracks within 3 inches of each other.
  • Glass damage impedes the driver’s view.
  • The cracks intersect.

When it comes to windshield damage, inspection requirements also vary depending on what state you’re in. Some states impose stricter guidelines than the federal ones. Research how your local government approaches the state inspection and windshield cracks.

Consider the Extent of the Damage

Can you pass your inspection with a cracked windshield? Many drivers can assume the answer just by looking at the glass. A minor chip usually isn’t cause for concern, but a large webbed crack from a sudden impact poses more safety hazards.

If you worry about staying compliant with state rules and having your car pass its inspection, address any windshield damage before you schedule a thorough check.

Repair or Replace Your Windshield Before Inspection

For peace of mind, it’s best to address the cracked windshield before your car undergoes inspection. Consult an expert who can recommend the best course of action. In some cases, technicians can repair the surface, though replacing the windshield may be necessary.

Reach out to your auto insurance company to see if they will cover the cost of repairs. Depending on your policy, your insurer may reimburse you for the cost of windshield repairs or replacement.

For example, collision coverage typically covers windshield cracks and other types of vehicle damage resulting from an accident. What if the glass cracks because a branch falls on the car? This is often included in a comprehensive coverage policy, which some drivers may not carry.

Avoid the Dangers of a Cracked Windshield

Don’t delay fixing your car’s compromised glass. You could receive a ticket from police officers requiring you to repair the damage for safety. If you get into an accident with a cracked windshield, you’re at a greater risk of injury due to the unsafe glass.

Restore Your Vehicle With Formula 1 Collision Center

So, can you pass inspection with a cracked windshield? Use the information above to help you pass your vehicle’s inspection with flying colors.

Driving with a cracked windshield can be dangerous, so bring your car to Formula 1 Collision Center immediately and let us repair the damage. We’re your go-to source for auto body refinishing, repairing accident damage, and roadside assistance. Call (520) 369-4291 to request a service today.

auto glass replacement cost

How Much Does Auto Glass Replacement Cost in Tucson?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Glass Repair, Maintenance.

Having clear, unblemished car windows is essential for driving safely. However, rocks, twigs, and other road debris can damage your windshield and significantly hinder your vision. Although a small chip or crack isn’t usually a cause for concern, severe auto glass fissures often require a replacement. 

Unfortunately, many Tucson residents don’t know how much auto glass replacement costs or how repair shops determine the price. That’s why our team at Formula 1 Collision Center is here to explain the average rate of windshield replacement. 

Formula 1 Collision Center is Tucson’s number one collision repair center in Tucson, Arizona. If you need to repair or replace your vehicle’s windshield, call us at (520) 369-4291 to schedule an appointment.

How Much Does Windshield Replacement Cost?

Windshields are essential yet often underappreciated vehicle features that protect you from debris, the natural elements, and other road hazards while driving. Although windshields can withstand mild impacts and weather without issue, they can only take so much damage before becoming a safety hazard. However, figuring out how much auto glass replacement costs isn’t easy since various factors affect pricing.

Everything from your vehicle model to the type of glass it needs impacts the service’s rate. For example, replacing an older car’s windshield is often much cheaper than replacing auto glass in a modern vehicle with numerous advanced features.

That said, most vehicle owners pay between $350 to $550 for auto glass replacement.

Factors That Affect Windshield Replacement Costs

Replacing the windshield is more complex than many Arizona residents realize, especially on high-tech modern cars. Below are some factors that affect auto glass replacement costs.

Driver Assistance Features

Many modern vehicles have driver assistance features like lane-keeping systems and adaptive cruise control that help drivers travel safely. Once a mechanic replaces the cracked windshield, they have to recalibrate the car’s sensors and cameras for these features to function correctly. This significantly increases the service’s cost, adding up to $400 more to your bill.

Type of Glass

Most repair shops offer two types of windshields:

  • OE (original equipment) glass
  • Aftermarket glass

OE glass comes from your vehicle’s manufacturer, while third-party manufacturers develop aftermarket glass. Original equipment windshields typically carry a higher price than aftermarket varieties since they often consist of higher-quality materials. It’s best to assess the pros and cons of both OE and aftermarket windshields to determine the best variation for your vehicle and budget.

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center for First-Class Windshield Replacement in Tucson, Arizona

If you need to replace your vehicle’s windshield in Tucson, Arizona, contact Formula 1 Collision Center. Our team will determine the auto glass replacement cost and provide an estimate before starting the process. We work with some of the leading auto glass companies and will handle all your windshield replacement needs at a price that fits your budget.

From minor auto glass damage to extensive collision repair, no job is too big or small for our professionals.

Call our Formula 1 Collision Center team at (520) 369-4291 today!

USAA Stars Repair Facility

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Painting, Auto Glass Repair, Collision Repair, Dent Repair, USAA.

USAA Repair Facility in Tucson, Arizona

As a USAA STARS repair facility, Formula 1 Collision Center fulfills all the expectations you may hold for your ideal auto repair shop. With the help of our highly qualified technicians and excellent customer service, you can rest assured to benefit from the same level of quality and timeliness that you associate with USAA as your preferred insurance company. 

The USAA STARS Warranty stands for Streamlined Appraisal Repair Service.   Staying true to its name, the warranty program selects premium auto repair shops from all over the country that are known for their excellent work and swift services. The STARS program aims to support every USAA member with high-quality auto repair solutions through this process.

We use our skills, knowledge, expertise, experience, and connection to our car community to provide quality repairs to the various parties that visit our location. Our services include collision repair, auto body refinishing, towing assistance, factory-certified collision repair, and a comprehensive repair process, and access to top-notch auto body repair professionals.

As one of the premier auto body shops in Tucson, Arizona, Formula 1 Collision Center checks all of these boxes. In turn, we are able to cater to all your needs as a USAA member. Whether you need help with minor repairs or major damages, our seasoned technicians are just a call away.

Your USAA STARS Repair Facility in Tucson, AZ

Fulfilling our role as a USAA STARS Repair Facility, Formula 1 Collision Center goes beyond restoring your car to its pre-accident condition. In addition to delivering the level of services that you expect from a premium auto body shop, we also help you throughout your claims process for a hassle-free repair experience. 

This means that no matter the extent of the damage, the Formula 1 Collision Center team handles the otherwise complex aspect of filing for claims, communicating with your insurance company, and settling your related fees prior to repairs. This provides you with a one-stop solution for auto repair, which brings immense comfort to the stressful experience of restoring your vehicle. 

We Put Your Comfort Front and Center as a USAA Member

To make sure that our solutions deliver the same level of services as your USAA experience, Formula 1 Collision Center takes a holistic approach to vehicle restoration and repair through an insurance claims process. This results in a seamless solution that delivers your required affordability and quality without any problems. As a part of the STARS Warranty program, our team takes care of the following aspects:

Itemized Damage Report

As one of the most important documents in auto repair claims, an itemized damage report serves as the backbone of the process. Our team makes sure to prepare this report after a comprehensive inspection to outline the services, parts, and labor required for your vehicle repair and restoration. This enables you to enjoy transparent solutions while also being confident in their overall quality.

Swift Delivery of Services

Getting quick repairs at auto repair shops is often difficult to the point of being impossible. But with Formula 1 Collision Center’s status as a USAA repair facility in Tucson, AZ, we bridge the gap of communication between our facility and your insurance company. This allows us to start on repairs in as little as 24 hours after your authorization.

Collection of Charges 

Through the STARS Warranty program, our facility is also able to get all the required deductible and fee details directly from your USAA insurance policy. This allows us to collect the required funds on the spot to ensure your utmost comfort and convenience throughout the process. This also reduces the timeframe for the delivery of your restored vehicle.

Excellent Restoration and Repair

We understand that individuals want to obtain the best quality collision repair. It isn’t just about collision repair but high quality repairs of all types for your vehicle. We know that you do not merely want to go from point A to point B but would also like to go there reliably and with full confidence.

We are to provide an effective auto body service with guaranteed repairs and other services that matter to your current vehicle. Whether you have a damaged vehicle or would like a detail oriented team that pays attention to consumers, then reach out to us for assistance.

With over 40 years of experience as a premier auto body repair shop, Formula 1 Collision Center is known for quality first while restoring vehicles to their pre-accident condition. Through our use of the latest technology, investment in cutting-edge equipment, and availability of highly-skilled technicians, we are able to repair your vehicle to deliver its ideal functional, aesthetically, and performance requirements. 

Limited Lifetime Warranty

To show our confidence in our work while also gaining your trust in our craftsmanship, we also offer a limited lifetime warranty with all of our repair jobs. As a part of the USAA STARS Warranty, this also means that you will be able to enjoy the limited lifetime warranty for as long as you own the vehicle. 

When put together, these aspects ensure that you are able to get through the otherwise difficult experience of auto repair claims without stretching yourself thin. 

Contact Us for a Seamless Auto Repair Claims Experience 

If you are a USAA member with an applicable auto insurance policy from the company, you can rest assured to get these quality services through Formula 1 Collision Center. No matter the extent of damage that your vehicle faces, our services can take care of it for you in an ideal manner. 

Formula 1  Collision Center has been serving the Tucson Community for over 40  years! With our expert Collision Repair and Auto Body Refinishing, we are ready to restore your vehicle back to its original condition.

To see how our solutions can help, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We will be glad to understand your concern and guide you through the rest of the process right away.

What to Do When You Need Auto Glass Repair

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Glass Repair.

Though most drivers hope they will never be involved in any kind of auto accident or collision, the truth is that sooner or later many of us will find ourselves in some kind of altercation. Whether we simply find ourselves in a mild fender-bender in a grocery store parking lot or we are involved in a more serious collision while driving on the freeway, accidents are much more common than we’d like to think. This is why it’s so important to find a trusted auto body repair center that can not only help with all different kinds of collision repair, but who are experts in helping you get your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. One of the more commonly damaged parts of a vehicle seen after a collision is the auto glass. From the windshield to the rear windows, auto glass is not only designed to be durable but also to safely crack, break, or shatter when placed under the right kind of pressure.

Accurate Collision Repair Estimates

Nobody wants to look at their vehicle and realize it has been damaged in a vehicle. This is particularly true when the glass has been broken or damaged in some way. It’s fairly common for windows to be cracked or even fully broken when a vehicle has suffered an impact of some kind. Drivers can often feel financially stressed when they see their auto glass has been damaged. However, one of the best ways to alleviate any kind of auto glass repair anxiety is by finding a team of trusted auto body repair specialists — like the team at Formula 1 — who can take the time to thoroughly inspect your vehicle. Not only will they be able to inspect the damage that has occurred, but they can provide you with an estimate of how much the repair work might cost and how long it might take. This takes all the uncertainty out of it and helps your vehicle get back to its pre-accident condition.

Auto Glass Replacement

It’s incredibly common to notice small cracks or chips in a windshield and have no idea where they came from. It’s also pretty common for drivers to choose to ignore these more minor-seeing issues since they don’t necessarily interfere with the driving experience on a day-to-day basis. However, it’s essential even the most minor of auto glass issues get addressed right away since they have the potential to quickly expand and cause larger problems. For example, even the smallest of crack and spread out into a much more massive crack across auto glass, particularly if it has been subjected to wide ranging temperatures. Furthermore, once the integrity of auto glass has been compromised with a chip or a crack, even the smallest of impacts can cause the glass to shatter, requiring auto glass replacement. This is why it’s key to have auto glass repaired even with the smallest of issues.

No driver wants to ever be involved in an auto accident or a collision, but the truth is that they occur more regularly than we’d like to admit. This is why it’s so important you find a trusted auto body repair center that can help you with all things related to an auto accident or collision. The next time you are looking around for the best auto glass repair in Tucson grab the nearest phone and get in touch with our team here at Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291 right away! Our team of highly trained auto body repair specialists know how important it is to get a vehicle back to its original condition and we do everything in our power to make sure it happens quickly and professionally.

4 Reasons to Repair Minor Auto Glass Damage

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Glass Repair.

While a major function of your vehicle’s auto glass is to maintain safety while on the road, it also plays a significant role regarding aesthetic value. If your auto glass has been cracked or chipped, it can consequently become more vulnerable to shattering during the impact of an accident. And by repairing little chips and cracks, you can keep them from growing into larger ones that could create the need to fully replace the glass. Here’s a look at four benefits of repairing minor auto glass damage.

Aesthetic Value

This is particularly important when it comes to commercial fleet vehicles because the trucks and vans are broadcasting an image of your company to the public, and you want that image to be creating a positive association.

Prevent More Extensive Damage

In many instances, windshield damage can be simply fixed, but the key is to get the work done promptly so that the crack or chip doesn’t spread. Generally speaking, rock chips can be fixed when their diameter is less than that of a quarter’s, and cracks can be repaired if they’re shorter than three inches. Otherwise, replacement will likely be required.

Resale Value

In the event that you decide to put your vehicle up for sale anytime soon, you’ll want the online pictures to grab the attention of prospective buyers. If it appears that the vehicle’s exterior has not been well taken care of, then possible buyers might become concerned about the maintenance of the mechanical components as well—and then click onward to the next ad.

Insurance Coverage

Auto glass damage is regularly covered by insurance, even for minor issues like rock chip repair. And by choosing an actual shop, instead of some roadside pop-up tent, you can trust that the repairs will be done at a high quality and that the service techs can help you properly navigate the insurance side of things.

If you’re in need of auto glass or auto body repair, be sure to get in touch with a reputable shop. For auto glass repair in Tucson, Marana, and Oro Valley, AZ, the experts to contact are at Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291. Formula 1 specializes in Subaru and Volvo auto body repair in Tucson. Feel free to give Formula 1 a call today to schedule an appointment for any of your auto body needs!

5 Services Offered by a Reputable Auto Body Shop in Tucson

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Body Painting, Auto Detailing, Auto Glass Repair, Collision Repair, Dent Repair.

From minor scratch repair to frame straightening after a major accident, it’s important that you entrust your vehicle to a shop that has earned itself a strong reputation in the community for providing top-notch service at a reasonable rate. Here’s a look at five types of auto body repair offered by a trusted collision repair center in Tucson.

Paintless Dent Removal

This process involves a service tech using a specialized set of tools to work out the dent from inside the paneling. This precludes the need for painting, which is a process that can be time-consuming and costly. Although some larger dents won’t qualify for this type of repair, smaller ones regularly will.

Computerized Estimates and Parts Ordering

By using the latest technology for estimates and ordering, the repair process will be better streamlined and more efficient, ultimately working to get you back behind the wheel in a more timely fashion.

Color Matching Technology

Even if your car has suffered significant collision damage, color matching technology can work to return it to its pre-accident appearance.

Computerized Frame Straightening

When technologically-advanced frame straightening returns your vehicle as closely as possible to factory specifications, it will help to keep you better protected in the event that another accident occurs in the future.

Scratch Repair in Tucson

To help ensure that rust doesn’t set in, it’s best to be proactive and promptly get to the shop if your vehicle has been scratched up.

If you’re in need of auto body repair, be sure to get in touch with a reputable collision center. For auto body repair in Tucson, the experts to contact are at Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291. Formula One is the official body shop of Tucson Subaru and Volvo of Tucson. Feel free to give Formula 1 a call today to schedule an appointment for any of your vehicle’s auto body needs!

5 Reasons to Fix Windshield Rock Chips

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Glass Repair.

In the event that you were recently driving behind a semi truck and it shot a rock back into your windshield, there’s a good chance that it left you with a rock chip. While the damage might not appear to be a huge deal, you’ll still want to get it taken care of quickly so that your field of vision is not impaired and so the chip doesn’t continue to grow to the extent that windshield replacement becomes necessary. Here’s a look at five benefits of getting windshield rock chips repaired.

Clear Field of Vision

aNot only is this important to the safety of you and those with whom you’re sharing the road, but driving with a cracked windshield that impairs your visibility is actually a ticketable offense in the state of Arizona.

Safety During Accident

In the unfortunate event that you’re involved in a collision, the odds of your windshield shattering could be increased with the presence of rock chips.

Fast and Convenient Repairs

Oftentimes, rock chip repair can be completed in only a half an hour or so, allowing you to get in and out of the shop quickly.

Avoid Windshield Replacement

With rock chips that have a diameter less in size than that of a quarter, repairs can typically be done quickly. However, if the repairs are delayed and the chip grows larger than that size, then the replacement of your windshield may very well be needed.

Insurance Coverage

It’s common for insurance plans to cover rock chip repairs. By choosing a reputable shop, you can receive assistance with any insurance issues that may arise when navigating that bureaucracy.

If you’re in need of rock chip repair, be sure to get in touch with a reputable shop. For auto body and auto glass repair in Tucson, AZ, the experts to contact are at Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291. Formula 1 also specializes in Volvo collision repair in Tucson. Feel free to give Formula 1 Collision Center a call today to schedule an appointment for any of your auto body needs!

Does my windshield need to be replaced?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Glass Repair.

There are multiple reasons why it’s important to keep your windshield in great condition. For one, it plays a central role in your ability to maintain a clear field of vision, which will help to reduce the chances of getting into an accident. And in the event that you do get in a wreck, it’s important that your windshield is able to hold up as strongly as possible. If you have a windshield that is chipped or cracked, you’ll want to arrange an appointment with a reputable auto glass specialist who can make a quick and accurate determination on if the damage can be repaired, or if windshield replacement will be necessary. Here’s a look at five signs that you may need windshield replacement.

Cracking

The general rule is that if the windshield crack is longer than three inches, then you’ll likely need replacement instead of repair.

Rock Chips

When a rock chip has a diameter that is larger than that of a quarter, then the concern is that the windshield is compromised to the extent that it might not hold up against the impact of a collision—making windshield replacement the best option. And when it comes to smaller-sized rock chips, instead of going to some pop-up roadside tent, it’s best to have the repairs done by a reputable shop so that you can trust that they will be done expertly.

Freezing Temperatures

If the wintertime temperature does dip below freezing, additional strain on any cracks or chips could lead to windshield replacement being needed.

Extensive Scratches

Because a main job of your windshield is to provide optimal visibility, if it’s extensively scratched up, it should be replaced so that you have a clear field of vision.

Windshield Was Improperly Installed

In the event that you have reason to believe that your windshield was originally installed incorrectly, then it might be worth it to have an auto glass expert look it over and figure out if any work on it will need to be done.

If you’re in need of windshield replacement or any kind of auto body repair, be sure to get in touch with a reputable specialist. For windshield replacement in Tucson, AZ, the experts to contact are at Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291. Feel free to give Formula 1 Collision Center a call today to schedule an appointment for any of your auto body needs!

Need Help With Auto Glass Repair?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Glass Repair.

As a car owner, you probably take a lot of steps to help take proper care of your vehicle. From driving in a safe and defensive manner, to parking away from other cars in a parking lot, or regularly washing the exterior, taking pride in what you own is an important part of vehicle ownership. However, even when all these steps are taken it doesn’t mean you are immune to complications. It’s common for drivers to notice a new chip in their windshield that seemed to come out of nowhere or, worse, find themselves involved in a collision of some kind. When auto glass is damaged it is vital that it gets repaired ASAP not only for the integrity of the vehicle, but for the safety of the occupants inside.

Collision Repair

When involved in a collision of some kind, a vehicle can suffer all manner of damage. And one of the things that can often be damaged is the glass. Whether it’s the windshield, the rear window, or one of the side windows, these vulnerable parts of a vehicle are susceptible to damage when part of a collision. In addition, auto glass is an essential part to the safety of a driver and of the occupants inside and the auto glass should be repaired or replaced as quickly as possible. One of the first lines of defense against dangerous outside elements, such as inclement weather or flying debris, is a good windshield and a good set of windows. If you think you might be in need of auto glass repair be sure to get in touch with a nearby auto body repair shop who can do a proper inspection and help get your vehicle back on track.

Cracks and Chips

For many car owners, the damage they might see over the course of driving a vehicle may not be as dramatic as a fully broken window or windshield. In fact, many people will simply encounter a minor chip or crack in their glass and their initial reaction may be to not think too much of it. After all, what harm could a tiny chip or crack do to such a durable piece of glass? But the truth is that even the most seemingly harmless little crack or chip in auto glass could be the trigger for bigger issues.For example, if a windshield has a small crack and then sits out in the hot sun all day long the glass may begin to expand, creating pressure with this crack and causing it to pop out into a much larger and more costly problem to repair. Or a rock could kick up on the freeway and shatter the windshield since the chip has compromised the integrity of the glass.

When a vehicle is involved in a collision there are any number of damages that might occur, from minor to major. Whether you’ve discovered a small dent in your hood or an entire back window has been smashed in, it’s vital that you find an auto body repair center who has the expertise to properly inspect and repair your vehicle. This is especially true if you are in need of new auto glass, as the glass on our vehicles is an essential part of staying safe and secure as a car owner. If you find yourself in need of quality auto glass repair in Tucson get a hold of our team here at Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291 right away! Our team of skilled and trusted auto technicians understand how important quality auto glass is and we are here to make sure you are driving a safe and reliable vehicle.

How to Identify the Different Kinds of Windshield Rock Chips

Written by Formula 1 Collision on . Posted in Auto Glass Repair.

If you were recently cruising calmly down the road and then all of a sudden—wham!—a rock shot up and chipped your windshield, then you’ll want to act quickly to get the damage repaired. When the repairs are delayed, the chip is liable to grow to the size that the windshield needs to be replaced.

When choosing where to get rock chip repair, it’s best to go to an established shop, rather than some pop-up roadside tent. This way you can trust that the repairs are being done by a true professional who can be held accountable for the quality of their work. Here’s a look at five tips on how to identify different types of rock chips.

Star Chip

This chip has lines streaking out from the impact point. If left unrepaired, the star chip is especially prone to spreading outward to the extent that full windshield replacement becomes required.

Half Moon

This chip’s crescent-like shape is caused by an object hitting the windshield at an sideways trajectory, and can be one of the more difficult rock chips to fix.

Bullseye Break

The bullseye break has rings that surround a central point of impact. In most cases this type of chip is easily repairable.

Combo Rock Chip

A combination chip has features of two or more of the aforementioned rock chips. For these chips, the complexity of the repair can individually vary.

Windshield Crack

An ignored rock chip can turn into a large crack. When a crack is more than three inches long, there is a good chance windshield replacement will be needed.

If your vehicle needs auto glass repair or replacement, be sure to get in touch with a reputable specialist. For auto glass repair and replacement in Oro Valley, Sahuarita, Marana, and Tucson, AZ, the experts to contact are at Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291. Feel free to give Formula 1 Collision Center a call today to schedule an appointment for any of your auto body needs!