Local Independent Auto Glass Shops vs. Large Corporate Companies: What Are The Differences?

Discovering a crack in your windshield is a moment when you have to make several decisions. The first, and most important decision is what auto glass service you are going to hire to repair or replace your damaged windshield. While there are a ton of companies out there, we’d like to discuss the differences between hiring a local independent auto glass shop as opposed to a large corporate company. 

Quality is Important

When getting any work done on your vehicle, or anywhere, the quality of work and materials used matters. It’s essential when hiring an auto glass service that you are cognizant of the type of auto glass being used to replace your windshield. 

Some local and corporate shops use aftermarket/OE Equivalent glass but they don’t always put that into their quote. The best glass to use is OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass, so you want to make sure, if that’s the glass you choose, that’s what you are getting with your replacement. 

Many vehicles need OEM glass so their ADAS technology has proper calibration. Some larger corporate companies will install the glass and send you to the dealer for calibration. But, once you get there the dealer isn’t able to calibrate because aftermarket glass was used. This leaves you without functioning safety features. 

Quality of workmanship is also essential. Local, independent auto glass replacement shops are typically family-owned and have little employee turnover, which is a testament to their staff’s expertise. This is a stark contrast against corporate companies that are so large that employees can get lost in the shuffle. 

Auto glass technicians in small, independent shops have access to various tools and techniques that are the best approach to your specific jobs. Installers at large corporate companies are sometimes limited to a specific set of tools or techniques that may not be the best choice for your auto glass repair. 

Don’t Forget the Small Print 

The cost of a windshield replacement is substantial. Before you sign the paperwork you want to understand the details of a lifetime warranty, which is a valuable asset if issues were to arise. What if you discover a leak only a few months after your new windshield is installed? Does the warranty cover it? 

Corporate auto glass company contracts come with some fine print that you need to check over to be sure there are no additional fees or charges not included with the original cost. When you hire a local, independent shop, they will stand behind their warranty, because they understand the importance of satisfied customers. 

Insurance Companies Might Push Corporate Glass Shops

While an insurance company might recommend that you go with a large, corporate company, you have the right to choose the auto glass shop that you think will do the best job repairing or replacing your windshield. Your insurance company will suggest corporate companies because they would prefer to use aftermarket auto glass. But you have the right to choose and do not have to go with what the insurance company wants. 

Some insurance providers might have arrangements set up with corporate companies. One tactic is to patch your call over to the corporate auto glass company they prefer when you call to make an auto glass claim. So you aren’t talking with the insurance provider, but the corporate auto glass company they chose for you. Independently owned auto glass services can help you make that insurance claim, so you aren’t patched over to a third party. Click here to learn more.

Do Your Research Before Calling for a Free Quote

Many auto glass shops offer high quality services and parts. The first thing you should do is search online for “windshield replacement near me” or “best auto glass shop near me.” This is the best way to learn what your neighbors are saying about local, independent auto glass shops and corporate chain locations. 

While all of these auto glass companies will have reviews on their website, your best option is to check out Google reviews, or other non-partisan review sites, to see what former customers are saying. If you live in or around Amsterdam, Saratoga Springs, or the Capital Region of New York, check out our Google reviews here. 

Don’t Get Blown Off

The word on the street is that some customers found that large, corporate auto glass repair and replacement companies will “blow them off.” By this, they mean that they continually have their set appointments rescheduled not only once, but twice. You can be sure that a small, independently owned auto glass shop will stick to the original appointment they give you. Don’t wait to get blown off by the big guys to decide that a smaller auto glass company cares more about your happiness. 

Personalized Customer Service

One of the most significant advantages of working with a local, independent auto glass shop is the level of personalized customer service you’ll receive. Large corporate companies may be professional, but they often have a more standardized approach to customer service. Since they are larger, they tend to be less flexible and interactions are less personal. Local businesses pride themselves on building close relationships with consumers, so they offer a more tailored experience. 

Do You Need A Windshield Replacement in Amsterdam, Saratoga Springs, or The Capital Region of NY?

If you live in or around the Cobleskill, Rock City Falls, Saratoga Springs, or Albany areas, including the Capital Region, contact us at Craftsman Auto Glass. We offer a comprehensive range of professional auto glass services and our skilled technicians specialize in windshield replacement for all types of vehicles.