Why Are Independent Auto Glass Companies Better than Big Corporations?

Auto glass damage, like a crack in your windshield, is nothing short of annoying. Did you also know it’s unsafe? Much of the structural integrity of your vehicle depends on the windshield, which is why it always needs to be free of any damage or cracks. When you find damage to the windshield, you wonder who you should hire to repair or replace it.

In this blog, we’re going to go over all the reasons why we believe you are always better off in the hands of an independently owned auto glass company than one of those big, corporate guys.

1. Quality

When you think about the level of security a windshield brings to a vehicle, there’s no denying that quality work and parts are essential to a repair or a replacement. Many of the big guys offer aftermarket/OE equivalent glass, but that isn’t always stated in their quote.

When replacing a windshield, it’s best to use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass because it ensures a tighter seal and is created to work with your ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). So be sure they offer OEM glass—and if you request it, you want to make sure that’s what they’re using.

Quality in workmanship is also higher in an independent auto glass company. They’re typically family-owned and have less employee turnover than the corporate companies. The staff at an independently owned auto glass company often has a higher level of expertise.

2. Read the Whole Contract

Before you sign a contract, you should always read it thoroughly. This is true for windshield replacement too. Big corporate companies tend to include a lot of fine print that you must check before you sign. You could be agreeing to additional fees or charges.

Independently owned auto glass companies stand behind their warranty and will review your contract with you to ensure you're fully informed, as customer satisfaction is their top priority.

3. Insurance Companies May Push Corporate Services

Your insurance company may recommend that you hire a large, corporate company, but you have the right to choose the auto glass company you prefer, as long as they’re in the network. Insurance companies prefer to send their customers to the big guys because they use aftermarket glass.

When you discover that your windshield is damaged, you should contact the auto glass company—not your insurance. The insurance company might patch you directly to the auto glass company of their choice, not giving you a chance to make your own decisions for your vehicle.

4. Do Your Research

The first thing you should do after discovering damage to your windshield is start your search for an independently owned auto glass service. You can check with your family, friends, and neighbors, as well as doing a good Google search. Remember, all companies will put five-star reviews on their website. If you want an honest, customer-driven review, go to Google Reviews or Yelp.

If you live in or around Austin or the surrounding areas of Central Texas, check out our Google Reviews here.

5. Commitment to Service

Big corporate auto glass companies don’t have the same level of commitment to service as the smaller guys. Local, independent auto glass companies know the importance of good customer service. They understand that word of mouth is the most effective way to grow—or lose—business. So they do their part to make sure their customers are happy all the time.

In contrast, the big guys tend to do things like offer limited appointment windows and charge extra for mobile service. They don’t have to rely on word of mouth because they have franchises everywhere, so they tend to focus on the bigger picture—but forget the small things, like happy and satisfied customers.

Do You Need a Windshield Repair or Replacement in Austin, TX or Surrounding Areas?

If you live, work, or are visiting Round Rock, Austin, Bee Cave, or Manor, TX, and you need a windshield repair or replacement, contact us at Capitol City Glass. We are a family-owned and operated auto glass company that has been servicing the Central Texas area for more than ten years. Click here for a free quote.