A small windshield chip left unaddressed often spreads into a larger crack over time, particularly with temperature fluctuations or road vibration, making the decision to repair early rather than wait a financially sensible one in most cases. Chip repair is typically far less expensive than full windshield replacement, and many insurance policies waive the deductible entirely for repairs specifically because insurers prefer the lower-cost outcome of early intervention. The size and location of damage determines whether repair is even an option — chips smaller than a coin and located away from the edge of the windshield are usually repairable, while cracks longer than a few centimetres or damage near the edge typically require full replacement. Repair timing matters too, since a chip exposed to dirt and moisture for an extended period becomes harder to repair cleanly compared to one addressed promptly after it occurs. For full replacement, ask specifically whether the shop uses OEM glass or an aftermarket equivalent, since this can affect both fit and the proper functioning of features like rain sensors or heads-up displays built into modern windshields.