Picture this: you get a chip in the windshield of your brand new car, and you’re dreading the replacement cost. But you get a quote from an auto glass company and find out it’ll only cost $180. Sound too good to be true? That’s because it is.
In this article, Tim Newcomer, owner of Van Go Auto Glass, explains the bait and switch tactics used by auto glass companies to lure customers in before breaking the news that the actual cost is a lot higher than they were quoted. Read Tim’s advice on how to spot the red flags and avoid falling victim to this common tactic.
What is the “bait and switch” tactic in the auto glass industry?
The bait and switch in auto glass happens when a company gives you a lowball quote, often just for the cost of the glass. Once you bring your car in for the appointment, the “real” price appears, which includes installation, calibration, adhesives, molding, and labor. That reasonable-sounding $180 quote is suddenly $500+ and you’re either stuck paying or you have to leave with a windshield that still isn’t safe for driving.
Some shops will even push financing options when the price shock hits, making it sound like they’re helping you, but it’s only because they weren’t honest up front.
How common is this in the Denver Metro?
Unfortunately, it’s very common. Van Go sees customers every week who call after being quoted a low price elsewhere before being handed a much higher bill.
And it’s not just the big corporate companies; even smaller shops in Denver and the suburbs pull this tactic. And some cut corners with installation or use inferior quality glass to try to meet lowball quotes.
One customer’s windshield camera system was nearly ruined by a sloppy replacement from another shop. They used aftermarket glass when the finicky camera required OEM glass and installed it incorrectly. It ended up costing her a lot more in the end.
What are some red flags customers can watch out for when getting an auto glass quote?
If you pay attention and ask the right questions, it’s usually pretty easy to spot a company that’s being dishonest or not transparent. Common red flags include:
- Unrealistically low prices. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
- No breakdown of costs. A transparent shop should include glass, installation, glue, molding, and labor in a line-item quote.
- Only one price option. A good company can often give you multiple options, like OEM (original equipment) or reputable aftermarket glass.
If you get a quote that seems questionable, or a company didn’t explain their pricing, call them back for clarification. If they dodge your questions, it’s best to walk away and call another shop.
When a Ford F150 owner showed up to his appointment at another shop, they told him his quote was no longer valid, it wasn’t covered by insurance, and he would have to pay out of pocket just to replace the center piece. Frustrated, he called Van Go, and we worked with his insurance to replace the whole thing at zero deductible.
What can car owners do to avoid falling victim to the auto glass bait and switch tactic?
The best thing you can do is ask questions of the auto glass company and your insurance provider.
Ask the company:
- What brand of glass are you using? If not OEM, who makes it?
- Can you give me a breakdown of the full cost, including installation and materials?
- Do you work with insurance and know how to get OEM glass covered when possible?
Ask your insurance:
- What is my deductible?
- Will you cover OEM glass? (A good company can help you push back if they try to deny OEM glass.)
Pro Tip: If you’ve already been hit with a bait and switch, don’t feel stuck. Get another quote and don’t be afraid to push back or call a more reputable shop for help.
How does Van Go Auto Glass do things differently?
Van Go is built on transparency and trust. We explain your options, what type of glass will work for your car, and what your out-of-pocket or insurance-covered costs will be.
Unlike other shops, Van Go:
- Gives you a full breakdown of pricing before any work starts.
- Works directly with your insurance so you don’t get stuck paying out of pocket unnecessarily.
- Advises when OEM glass is truly necessary (especially for vehicles with sensitive camera systems) and when you can save with aftermarket glass.
- Provides clear choices so you understand the price and quality of the glass you’re getting.
If you’ve been quoted a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is. A transparent shop will always give you the full breakdown before you commit.
No hidden fees. No surprises. Just transparent quotes you can trust.
For a windshield quote that is actually what you’ll pay, contact Van Go Auto Glass today.
