The auto glass industry is unregulated.  What does that mean to you? It means ANYONE can cut into your car.  ANYONE.

Protect your second-largest investment and yourself. Know your installer when getting your windshield replaced.  What does this mean for you? Whether the installer has one minute or 20 years of experience, don’t you want to know who is CUTTING INTO YOUR CAR? 

What do you need to know about your 3rd Party Administrator: the voice you think is your insurance company is NOT your insurance company.

You should know that when you call your insurance company, you are not talking to your insurance company.  As a result, you are talking to the largest auto glass business in the world – Safelite.  Safelite works as the third-party administrator for most insurance companies and has now acquired State Farm.  Insurance companies are paying Safelite to administer your claim. Have you ever called and the person you are talking to refers you to Safelite (which is illegal in Arizona, by the way; you have the right to choose who cuts into your car)??  At this instant, the person you are talking to works for Safelite.

We are the only industry that depends on its competitors for payment.  Awesome, huh?  Not really.  This is why you must choose your local shop.  Get to know your shops by visiting, calling, and asking questions.  We live here, we shop here, and we support you and your family. Be that as it may, YOU have the RIGHT to choose.

Get the facts.  Get the education you need.  You don’t need a lot of broken parts and cuts in your vehicle. Our industry is unregulated! Due to the fact that our industry is unregulated, protect yourself and know your installer when getting your windshield replaced.

Read about exploding glass in your car here: https://adventureautoglass.com/2020/09/14/exploding-car-windows/

The post The Auto Glass Industry is Unregulated appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

We’ve given our answers to each question below.

1. Why won’t the auto glass shop set an exact time for my mobile appointment?

First of five questions auto glass shops get asked

We don’t set an exact time because the previous job may take longer than expected or there may be other delays such as road work.

It is also possible that the previous installation finishes sooner, in which case we will arrive sooner during your appointment time frame.

Don’t worry though, we call before arriving and the time frames are typically only a few hours, none of that 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. business.

2. What is your warranty?

Second question auto glass shops get asked

We offer a limited lifetime warranty on every auto glass installation for as long as you own your vehicle.

Our warranty includes, but is not limited to, workmanship, material defects, and leaking. Proper adhesive cure times are an important factor for a safe installation.

3. Can you come to me?

The auto glass industry has changed. Many vehicles need to be calibrated in the shop.  Why is that?  Some automobiles need flat surfaces while others may need up to 50 feet or so of clear ground to calibrate.  Others are fine to calibrate in your driveway.  It all depends on your year, make and model of your vehicle.  There is no one-size-fits-all any longer.

4. Do you accept auto glass insurance, and do you offer a deal for cash customers?

We accept insurance and will be happy to walk you through the entire process from calling your provider to wrapping up with billing.

5. Are you a licensed and insured shop?

We are indeed and even an insurance-preferred auto glass replacement company. When you call, just make sure to tell your provider you want Adventure Auto Glass to replace or repair your glass.

These are the answers to the top five questions we get asked. . . a lot. We hope this helps you when selecting your auto glass replacement shop, and if you’re in the area, we’d love to help you out.

If you do have any more questions for us, we are always happy to help and encourage you to leave your questions below or give us a call!

Even if you’re not in the area, we might be able to recommend a shop; you never know.

Good luck out there and happy adventures!

The post 5 Questions Auto Glass Shops Get Asked. . . . A Lot appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

The post Common Types of Auto Glass Fraud appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

1. Recalibration is Essential

• Many ADAS features, such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking, rely on cameras and sensors mounted on or near the windshield.
• After replacing the windshield, these cameras and sensors must be recalibrated to ensure proper functioning.
• Failure to recalibrate can result in inaccurate readings, reduced safety, or even system malfunctions.

2. Types of Recalibration

• Static Recalibration: Done in a controlled environment using specific targets and equipment while the vehicle is stationary.
• Dynamic Recalibration: Requires driving the vehicle at specific speeds and conditions to reset the system.
• Some vehicles require both types of recalibration.

3. OEM vs. Aftermarket Glass – Why Recalibration is Essential

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Glass: Designed to match factory specifications and ensure compatibility with ADAS systems.
• Aftermarket Glass: It may be cheaper but can sometimes cause camera alignment or sensor accuracy issues.
• Some manufacturers require OEM glass for ADAS to function correctly.

4. Choosing a Certified Repair Shop – We recalibrate!

• Not all auto glass shops can perform ADAS recalibration.
• Look for a certified shop with the necessary equipment and expertise.
• Many dealerships or specialty repair shops handle recalibration in-house.

5. Insurance and Cost Considerations

• Many insurance policies cover windshield replacement and recalibration, but it’s best to confirm with your provider.
• ADAS recalibration adds extra cost to the replacement, sometimes hundreds of dollars, so it’s important to budget accordingly.

6. Signs of Improper Calibration 

After a windshield replacement, watch for:

• Dashboard warning lights related to ADAS.
• Lane departure warnings or collision alerts are activating incorrectly.
• Adaptive cruise control is not functioning as expected.
• Any unusual driving behavior related to driver assistance features.

7. Don’t Skip Calibration – Calibration is Essential!

• Even if your ADAS features appear to be working, even a slight misalignment of a few degrees can compromise safety.
• Proper calibration ensures your vehicle operates as intended and keeps you safe.

You can always follow us on facebook for up to date information: https://www.facebook.com/AdventureGlass

The post Recalibration is Essential appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

Auto Glass is unregulated which means ANYONE can cut into your car.  ANYONE.  There is no degree for our industry – it’s learn by fire.

Protect your second-largest investment and yourself. Know your installer when getting your windshield replaced.  What does this mean for you? Whether the installer has one minute or 20 years of experience, don’t you want to know who is LITERALLY CUTTING INTO YOUR CAR? 

You should know that when you call your insurance company you are not talking to your insurance company.  You are talking to the largest auto glass business in the world – Safelite.  Safelite works as the third-party administrator to most insurance companies.  Insurance companies are paying Safelite to administer your claim. Have you ever called and the person you are talking to refers you to Safelite (which is illegal in Arizona by the way)??  Sure you have – that is because the person you are talking to WORKS for Safelite.

We are the only industry that depends on their competitor for payment.  Awesome, huh?  Not really.  This is why you must choose your local shop.  Get to know your shops by visiting, calling, and asking questions.  We live here, we shop here, and support you and your family. YOU have the RIGHT to choose.

Get the facts.  Get the education you need.  You don’t need a lot of broken parts and cuts in your vehicle. Our industry is unregulated! Protect yourself and know your installer when getting your windshield replaced.

Read about exploding glass in your car here: https://adventureautoglass.com/2020/09/14/exploding-car-windows/

The post How does an unregulated industry affect you? Auto Glass: Unregulated but you have rights. appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

If you have an ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems, or ADAS) system in your car, you have to get your cameras calibrated to ensure they work properly and keep you safe. If you have cameras in your windshield you need to have your vehicle recalibrated for your car to function normally. These cameras can affect the following systems:

ADAS systems:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Automatic Braking System
• Automatic Parking
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Adaptive Light Control
• Pedestrian Monitors
• Proximity Monitors
• Driver Drowsiness Detection
• Collision Avoidance System
• Forward Collision Warning
• Lane Keep Assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Adaptive Headlights

Read more about ADAS here:  4 Types of ADAS

Due to the placement behind the front windshield, ADAS recalibration must take place after a windshield replacement. Unfortunately, this is much more complicated than pressing a “reset” button but instead requires a licensed and practiced ADAS Calibration Specialist.

You have a few options for how you get your cameras calibrated and please know the decision is up to you.

• We work with a company that will come to you or come to our shop shortly after the installation to do the calibration for you.
• You can make a separate appointment at the dealership.

Two Types of Re-calibration

Dynamic – this process has the vehicle drive at a set speed on well-marked roads. This normally takes up to an hour, possibly longer depending on your make and model

Static – this process uses a specific target image mounted in front of the vehicle during the process. This takes up to one hour or longer depending on the make and model of the vehicle.

Both re-calibration processes require certified professionals. We strongly advise not to attempt these processes independently as a faulty re-calibration could result in an ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) malfunction.

The ADAS system is designed to protect your vehicle on the road, which is why it is so essential that a professional completes the re-calibration process.

Come hang out with us on twitter at https://twitter.com/AdventureGlass to learn more!

The post ADAS and Recalibration: What you can expect at your replacement appointment appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

Repair or Replace – which is it and why does it matter?

We get so many questions every day. A big one is what is the difference between repair and replace?  It’s a great question with an equally great answer.

The Windshield Replacement:  When you have a crack that is longer than a dollar bill or in your direct line of vision; this is called a REPLACEMENT Click replacement to learn more about windshield replacement.

The Chip Repair:   When you have a ding in your windshield that is smaller than a quarter (we do not fill cracks) is what our industry considers a REPAIR.  Click Repair to learn more about windshield repairWhy does it matter?

When you call an auto glass shop, you need to know what you are asking for.  Most shops do not “repair” cracks; especially those that are longer than a dollar bill.  If you ask for a repair, the customer service representative will tell you that it isn’t doable which can freak out the customer.  Because, after all, why are you saying you don’t “repair” auto glass when you are an auto glass shop?  Make sense?  If you need a replacement, it is helpful if you tell the CSR that is what you want instead of a repair.

Repair:  Chip smaller than a quarter with no legs

Replacement:  Crack longer than a dollar bill – the whole windshield will be removed and replaced.

If you know what you want, your claim will go smoother and you will be much happier.

To clearer days!

The post Do I Need a Repair or Replacement? appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

Automobiles are getting fancier.  The game has changed with your insurance, your car and your glass shop. That means your windshield is getting fancier.  There are many things that are either in or connected to your windshield including heater wiper park areas, rain sensors, LDWS (lane departure warning systems), third visor frits, heads-up displays, and the list goes on and on.  The days are gone of simply putting in a new windshield.  Your auto glass shop will ask for your VIN so that we can find your piece of glass.

What we see when looking at your car.

Here is an example of a Chevy Truck – back in the day there were only one or two choices, but now there are several.  This is why we can’t give you an instant quote and why we need your VIN Number – we have to call the dealer to figure out what you have in your car.  Some cars have up to 20 different windshields to choose from and if we order you the wrong part, either it won’t fit or your extras won’t work.

What does this mean for you?

What does this mean for you?  Unfortunately, longer wait times.  Depending on your car and the camera system, we may need dealer glass.  If we do, we have to ask your insurance company for authorization.  This takes anywhere from minutes to days depending on your insurance company.  If they give us authorization, we then need to order it from the dealer.  Again, it could take a day to months depending on the availability of the glass.

What you can do.

If your insurance company does not give us authorization you have two choices.  1) We put in what they do authorize and hope for the best or 2) you pay the difference between what the insurance company authorizes and what the dealer windshield costs.  This is where it gets weird.  You have full glass coverage, therefore your insurance company should cover the entire bill, right?  We agree.  But they do not.  You need to talk with your agent about what, exactly is covered so you understand what is allowed.  We cannot tell you as every insurance company is different and they are changing their policies daily.

Your glass shop cannot call the insurance company and change things for you; you must do it or be on the line with the glass shop.

With the weather we have had and the technical problems with glass creation, storage, and demand, things are running 2-4 weeks behind so we appreciate your patience and consideration.  We are happy to answer any questions you may have.

The post Your Insurance, Your Car, and Your Glass Shop appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

We get so many questions every day. A big one is what is the difference between repair and replace?  It’s a great question with an equally great answer.

The Windshield Replacement:  When you have a crack that is longer than a dollar bill or in your direct line of vision; this is called a REPLACEMENT Click replacement to learn more about windshield replacement.

The Chip Repair:   When you have a ding in your windshield that is smaller than a quarter (we do not fill cracks) is what our industry considers a REPAIR.  Click Repair to learn more about windshield repairs.

Why does it matter?

When you call an auto glass shop, you need to know what you are asking for.  Most shops do not “repair” cracks; especially those that are longer than a dollar bill.  If you ask for a repair, the customer service representative will tell you that it isn’t doable which can freak out the customer.  Because, after all, why are you saying you don’t “repair” auto glass when you are an auto glass shop?  Make sense?  If you need a replacement, it is helpful if you tell the CSR that is what you want instead of a repair.

Repair:  Chip smaller than a quarter with no legs

Replacement:  Crack longer than a dollar bill – the whole windshield will be removed and replaced.

If you know what you want, your claim will go smoother and you will be much happier.

To clearer days!

The post What is the Difference Between Repair and Replace? appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

This is our top five list of questions we recommend you ask any auto glass repair shop you use, including Adventure Auto Glass!

We’ve given our answers to each question below.

1. Why won’t the auto glass shop set an exact time for my mobile appointment?

We don’t set an exact time because the previous job may take longer than expected or there may be other delays such as road work.

It is also possible that the previous installation finishes sooner, in which case we will arrive sooner during your appointment time frame.

Don’t worry though, we call before arriving and the time frames are typically only a few hours, none of that 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. business.

2. What is your warranty?

We offer a limited lifetime warranty on every auto glass installation for as long as you own your vehicle.

Our warranty includes, but is not limited to, workmanship, material defects, and leaking. Proper adhesive cure times are an important factor for a safe installation.

3. Can you come to me?

We can come to you with our mobile service, which serves the majority of Yavapai County.

Be aware that some vehicle types do require an in-shop appointment, but we will let you know ahead of time.

4. Do you accept auto glass insurance, and do you offer a deal for cash customers?

We accept insurance and will be happy to walk you through the entire process from calling your provider to wrapping up with billing.

5. Are you a licensed and insured shop?

We are indeed and even an insurance preferred auto glass replacement company. When you call, just make sure to tell your provider you want Adventure Auto Glass to replace or repair your glass.

We hope this helps you when selecting your auto glass replacement shop and if you’re in the area, we’d love to help you out.

If you do have any more questions for us, we are always happy to help and encourage you to leave your questions below or give us a call!

Even if you’re not in the area, we might be able to recommend a shop, you never know.

Good luck out there and happy adventures!

The post Top 5 Questions to Ask an Auto Glass Shop appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

As Americans, we hold a certain level of secrecy around personal identifying numbers. We shroud our Social Security number in secrecy, hold tight to our credit card numbers, and even blur out license plates in pictures.

To what effect? In addition to the obvious protection against identity theft, this level of privacy provides us comfort and a sense of security. We feel better knowing that others don’t know everything about us and our lives, myself included!

What is a VIN?

Should you be as secretive with your vehicles VIN? In case you were wondering, VIN stands for Vehicle Identification Number. It is a unifying number on every vehicle that provides insight into numerous aspects of your vehicle such as the year, make, and model.

VINs allow mechanics and technicians to confidently order replacement parts for your vehicle knowing they will 100% fit based on the VIN.

VIN Security

The question remains: Is it safe to share your VIN with anyone other than an auto mechanic or technician?

The simple answer is yes. There is nothing compromising about sharing your vehicle’s VIN. In most cases, it visible from the exterior of the vehicle, and any random Joe can come along and look.

The VIN only provides certain information about your vehicle.

Be Careful

While it is perfectly fine to share your VIN with people, though I don’t think it makes for riveting conversations, there is something to be said about those who refuse to share their vehicle VIN.

Each VIN is unique to each vehicle and because of this, the VIN is often used to check a vehicle’s accident history. Someone who is hiding their VIN may be trying to hide prior damage in a vehicle they want to sell.

If you are purchasing a used car from any retailer or private party, be sure to ask for the VIN. Then, on your own time, run a vehicle history report like Carfax. If the seller is hesitant to provide it explain why you need it. If they refuse to provide it still, run for the hills.

TLDR:

Yes, it is safe to share your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number. It does not contain any compromising personal information. A VIN explains a great deal about vehicles but most importantly are used to run a vehicle history report. If a seller refuses or is hesitant to provide you the VIN of a vehicle, it could be a sign they are trying to hide prior damage done to the vehicle.

Author: B. Delamater

Reminder:

We provide windshield repair and replacement service to most of Yavapai County including the greater Prescott & Prescott Valley area as well as the Verde Valley, Sedona, and much more! More questions? Give us a call, we’re happy to help!

For More Information on Windshield Replacement, click here.

Questions? Give us a call or message us on Facebook!

The post We Need Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

We have all been there. The hair on the back of your neck goes up.  You get that chill up your spine. The sweat starts on your scalp and your upper lip.  Locked inside. . my keys. .taunting me from my seat.    How could I be so careless? How could I do this to my poor raspberry cafe mocha still in the cup holder? So I ask myself, what window do I break in my car?

A tragic story, but we are here to help you out. Every car owner has locked themselves out of their car at least once, especially with older models that don’t auto-unlock if the keys are in the ignition.

Typically, this isn’t a major issue as you just have to call a tow truck or locksmith to help you out, it’s just a matter of waiting. However, since you left you coffee in the cup holder under the beating heat, time is of the essence!!

Breaking Windows

What window do I break in my car?

Ideally, we don’t want you to break any glass, but given the dire situation, we understand it to be necessary. So, if you must, we recommend breaking your driver or passenger side window.

Why not the windshield?

Good luck ripping out your windshield from the outside, but if you can, then go for it. Just remember it is laminated glass.

Why not the smallest window?

Logically this would make sense. The small glass should be the cheapest, right? WRONG! Supply and demand have determined that the smaller windows in your vehicle, like back passenger windows, vents, and back glass are all much more expensive than the front driver or passenger window to replace.

So please, for the sake of your wallet, DO NOT break the smallest window in your vehicle unless your glass insurance covers the costs completely.

Hurray! You’ve rescued your ice coffee and you can now get your keys. Glass is all over your car, but a shop vac can take care of that (the beauty of safety glass!). All you have to do now is call your local Auto Glass company to have it replaced!

Prevention

Maybe iced coffee isn’t as important to you as it is others. You might not want to break any glass in your car if you can help it. Totally understandable!

What can you do to prevent having to break your window if you’ve locked yourself out?

Spare Keys

Always have at least one if not two spare keys available to you in case of an emergency. If needed, phone a friend or Uber to fetch the spare. Keep them at home, with a neighbor, or generally anywhere you can readily access.

Hide-A-Key

I know what you’re thinking. Isn’t that for a house? Well, yes, but also no. There are hide-a-keys designed specifically for your vehicle.

They are usually small metal boxed that attach using extremely strong magnets; slip your spare key inside and stick the box somewhere inconspicuous underneath your car. Place it somewhere that’s not too easy to reach but you could get to if you needed too. I would recommend getting a box that also locks for added security.

Be mindful of doing this if you live in an area with a higher rate of crime. Car thieves are not oblivious to these key boxes, so depending on where you live or drive to, a hide-a-key box may not be the best solution.

The BEST Solution

When it comes down to it, the best thing that you can do to prevent having to break a window is to not lock yourself out. Easier said if you actively have this problem but try making a routine with your keys so you get locked out less.

For example, place your keys in your pocket before you open your car door. Alternatively, keep them on a lanyard and put that around your neck or wrist before you get out of your vehicle. This may take a while and some determination to fully adapt to the habit, but it will be worth not having to wait for a locksmith or breaking your window.

Good luck out there and happy adventures!

The post And Where Are My Keys? Locked Inside. . . .Taunting Me appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

Do You Have Auto Glass Replacement Problems? The auto glass industry is unregulated.  What does that mean?  The quick and dirty answer is this; no regulation means that anyone can cut into your car.  ANYONE.

Here are a few things you might run into when you need our services:

• Auto Glass Gone Wrong
• Broken Windshield
• A small chip
• The chip that turned into a HUGE CRACK
• A small or LARGE animal hits your car
• Rocks.  Yup.  we have rocks.
• ExPloDinG glass – it happens
• Mirrors are stolen or fall off
• Your sunroof breaks
• Weed whackers – self-explanatory
• Animals inside your car wanting to escape – we hope this isn’t ever the case!
• I-17 – huhhhh…yeah
• A dust storm – now your windshield is pitted
• The inevitable window that no longer closes or opens – WHY CAN’T THEY LAST?????
• The crazy scratches on the door windows – Dirt in your door gets stuck on those black wispy things on either side of your glass and scratches when rolling up and down your windows
• That film on the inside of your windshield – you know, you can draw finger art in it
• Noise, creaking, leaking, odd sounds. . . . yeah we know
  

  Adventure Auto Glass

This is a small list of things that we can help you with.  It’s crazy.  You don’t think about us until one of them happen.  We know, we understand, and it’s okay.  Dave just had a great vacation and is ready to roll!  If you have auto glass problems, let us help!

Why us though?  Don’t take my word for it, take our customer’s word for it!

Edd from Sedona:

“Our prior experience with Adventure Auto Glass and the very personable service by Dave made it a no-brainer to use them again.
Prompt, friendly, caring and professional service – you feel like a valued customer.
My thanks to Dave and Jim for the quality job in not only installing my new windshield but taking additional steps to care for my car surrounds. I enjoyed the casual conversation with them while they worked, nice to use a local company that supports our community as well.
If in need, I highly recommend using the best – Adventure Auto Glass.”

If you didn’t like that one, we have many more!  Take a look on our website or Google listing https://www.google.com/search?channel=nus5&client=firefox-b-1-d&q=adventure+auto+glass!

Auto glass problems are a part of life.  But they don’t have to ruin your day.  We got you!

The post Auto Glass Problems. . . We Get It. appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

The post Trifecta of “Possible” Auto Glass Scams – You Need to Know! appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.

Their initial thoughts are usually that someone shot the glass (yes, with a gun) or that some pesky neighbor kid must have broken the glass with a rock

While these scenarios are not impossible, in most cases of glass exploding, no one is at fault. The truth of the matter is your glass did spontaneously explode. Why, you ask? Well, the explanation is rather simple.

Why does it “explode”?

All glass in your vehicle is made of safety glass also known as tempered glass. This means when it breaks, it shatters to avoid having large shards of glass cutting passengers. This also means that the glass is also under a certain level of pressure at the molecular level. However, it is still MUCH stronger than regular glass.

“Enough science, what happened!?”

Okay, okay. Here’s what happens. Your car windows or back glass at some point are nicked with a rock. This most likely happens while driving and yes, rocks can kick up and hit the back of your vehicle.

That small nick or chip creates a weakness in the structure of the glass, making it much more susceptible to temperature changes, and other stresses.

So later that week, month, or year, when the temperature inside and outside your vehicle is drastically different or significant stress is placed on the glass, it shatters.

Why doesn’t it just spread and crack like a windshield?

Again, the windshield and the rest of the glass in your vehicle are made slightly differently. The windshield is made of two pieces of glass laminated together. The rest of the glass in your car is one pane of safety glass. The purpose of safety glass is to shatter so that cracks DON’T form, leading to large glass shards.

Sorry to break (no pun intended) the excitement of the exploding glass mystery. Your glass simply exploded because something hit it before, and the stress of the impact caught up with it later when further stress was added.

Even still, your glass insurance will cover the costs to replace the glass and we are happy to replace any glass in your vehicle, regardless of the cause.

Be safe out there!

Author: B. Delamater

Reminder:

We provide windshield repair and replacement service to most of Yavapai County including the greater Prescott & Prescott Valley area as well as the Verde Valley, Sedona, and much more! More questions? Give us a call, we’re happy to help!

The post Exploding Car Windows?? appeared first on Adventure Autoglass.