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Tag Archives: windshield replacement
Will Thanksgiving Road Trips Create More Work?
AAA predicts that at least 73 million people in the United States will hit the road this week, traveling at least 50 miles to be with loved ones for the Thanksgiving holiday. Depending on the region and the weather, the … Continue reading
Glass, ADAS Shop Moves Buildings After Fire Damages Previous Location
Michigan ADAS Calibrations and Glass opened its doors in a new location on Monday, Aug. 25, just two days after a fire tore through its building in Green Charter Township. Read more here.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ADAS, auto glass shop, new location, recalibration, windshield replacement Leave a comment
‘Thankful I Was Safe’: East Tennessee Man Says He Had To Replace Windshield After Unsecured Load Smashes Into Car
A Knoxville, Tennessee, resident tells his local news station he had to pay out-of-pocket for a windshield replacement after a box flew off the back of someone else’s vehicle. Read more here.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged smashed windshield, unsecured load, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Glass Doctor Demonstrates Windshield Installation
The Glass Doctor location in West Bend, Wisconsin, demonstrated a windshield replacement for a local news outlet. Read more here.
St. Louis Ranks in Top 5 U.S. Cities for Toughest Car Maintenance
Common issues in St. Louis include transmission and windshield repairs, with weather conditions and older roads contributing to the city’s ranking. Chicago tops the list of toughest cities for car upkeep, followed by Atlanta, Philadelphia and Detroit. Read more here.
Women Gets Windshield Repaired After Accident. There’s Just One Problem
A woman took her car to a body shop and got her windshield ostensibly repaired. But what it’s doing now led her to express concern that it wasn’t really fixed. Read more here.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged bad replacement, consumer, windshield repair, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Explaining Replacement Prices to Customers
With recalibration on cars with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and other factors raising the bill on newer vehicle windshield replacements, shops are left with customers, who range from curious to disgruntled, eager to know why they’re paying more. Shop … Continue reading
Auto Repair and Windshield Replacement Costs Have Risen. Why?
If your shop has had more customers with “sticker shock” at the cost of a windshield replacement over the past couple of years, you aren’t alone. Alongside collision repair costs, windshield replacement prices on newer models have increased significantly over … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged ADAS, higher prices, rising costs, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Auto Glass Gets Personal: A Customer’s Experience With Windshield Replacement
For auto glass technicians, cracked or chipped windshields are a normal part of life. They see them every day and make their living fixing them. But for their customers, a cracked windshield is more of a catastrophe. To provide the … Continue reading
Man Seeks Windshield Replacement, Leaves with More Problems
In the first week of March 2024, a man took his vehicle to an auto glass shop in India for a windshield replacement. He documented the fiasco that followed in a forum post, complete with pictures. Read more here.
Driver Complains about Inflated Windshield Claim, Insurance Rates
In 2022, a Tampa, Florida, man submitted an insurance claim for the repair of his cracked windshield. A year later, however, he received a call from someone claiming to be with an auto glass company wanting to fix the glass … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines, glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged auto glass insurance claims, Farmers Casualty, Farmers Insurance, Florida, Florida Autoglass Guys LLC, Florida windshield replacement, Liberty Mutual Insurance Co., National General Insurance Co., Sarasota, State Farm General Insurance Co., The Travelers Casualty Co., WFLA, windshield replacement Leave a comment
How much does it cost to replace a car window?
The total car window replacement cost depends on several factors, including the vehicle type and who performs the work. Iseecars.com says the average cost to replace a windshield, sidelite, or rear sidelite runs from $100 to $400. Read more here.
Court of Appeals Rules for Campfield
The U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals on January 16 agreed with Rich Campfield, the owner of Ultra Bond, that Safelite’s “dollar bill rule” hurt his business by driving away customers with windshield cracks longer than 6 inches. Campfield sued … Continue reading
New Year Brings New Start for Auto Glass Industry Veteran
The Japanese term Kaizen means change for the better or continuous improvement, and the start of a new year provides the perfect time to launch a business dedicated to that core concept. Shauna Davis formed Kaizen Glass Solutions to provide … Continue reading
Making the Jump from Customer to Shop Owner
Joe Kook transitioned from auto glass customer to shop owner in 2020 when he bought Tom’s Auto Glass Jim Gauthier installs a windshield at Tom’s Auto Glass in Chesterfield Township, Mich. in Chesterfield Township, Mich. Kook’s background includes 20-plus years at … Continue reading
Study: ADAS Adds More Than a Third to Repair Costs
The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that advanced driver assist systems (ADAS) make up a third of the cost of automobile crash repair. “Consumers may not realize it, but the sensors that help ADAS ‘see’ the world around the vehicle … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AAA, ADAS, ADAS components, Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS), American Automobile Association (AAA), automobile crash repair, cameras, front-end collision, radar sensors, rear collision, side mirror replacement, windshield replacement, windshield replacement cost Leave a comment
Mygrant Glass Clarifies Windshield Refund Policy
Mygrant Glass sent a notice to auto glass customers outlining the mandatory steps to be taken before returning a windshield that could not be successfully recalibrated. According to a memo from William Stanfield, those steps are: • Pre-scan for DTCs … Continue reading
Plastic Wrap for Windshield Nets Traffic Ticket
Ontario Provincial Police in Grenville, Ont., stopped a driver whose vehicle looked more like a bowl of leftovers in the fridge than a proper car. “If you have ever asked yourself if plastic wrap would make a suitable windshield replacement, … Continue reading
Center City Biker Incident: Good Samaritans Step up to Help Woman Get Windshield Fixed
“It was an unfortunate situation,” Otto Glass Repair Shop owner, Otto Hernandez said. “Nobody deserves to get that act of violence or act of evil inflicted on them.” Read more on Fox 29.
Safelite Group Acquires Intermountain Auto Glass
Safelite® Group, owner of Safelite AutoGlass®, has purchased the assets of Idaho-based Intermountain Auto Glass. The transaction closed on Friday, October 6. “On behalf of our associates across the country, we welcome new team members with enthusiasm as they join … Continue reading
Can Your Insurance Company Drop You Like a Rock for Too Many Replacement Windshield Claims?
Daniel Wheelwright says he has had three such chips grow into big-time cracks. He says when the windshields could not be repaired, they had to be replaced: three of them in two years. That third claim, apparently damaged his relationship … Continue reading
Windshield Woes: Drivers Struggle with Repairs and Responsibility
“We are fielding at least 300 calls for repairs a month. And we are far from the only business in the area doing this kind of work,” said Ross Smith, the co-owner of Raleigh Auto Glass. Read more on WRAL.com
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged supply chain, windshield, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Former Safelite President and CEO Tom Feeney Retires
On June 30, Tom Feeney will retire from Safelite after a 35-year career with the auto glass company. Feeny previously served as president and CEO for 14 years, and was credited for the company’s significant growth during that time. Feeney … Continue reading
Who Knew? A New Shop Named Hoodoo
Hoodoos are geological formations in the southwest United States. “Hoodoos stand out not only geologically, and we want to be a company that stands out,” Sean Dodson says of opening Hoodoo Glass LLC of Farmington, N.M. on June 1. His … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged ADAS, auto glass, Calibration, Farmington, Hoodoo Glass, New Mexico, windshield repair, windshield replacement 2 Comments
New York Senate Joins Assembly in Shuttering Auto Insurance Photo Mandate
If enacted into law, the act will take effect on January 1, 2023 and apply to all auto insurance policies issued, renewed, altered or modified on or after that date. Click here to read more.
The wait for Auto Glass Week™ is almost over!
The wait for Auto Glass Week™ is almost over! Get a sneak peek at what’s hot and happening. WATCH NOW
Safelite® Group Acquires Frontier Glass
Safelite Group, owner of Safelite AutoGlass, acquired the assets of Frontier Glass in Buffalo, N.Y. The deal was completed on May 27. “We’re pleased to welcome Frontier Glass associates to the Safelite family,” says Safelite Group president and CEO Renee … Continue reading
Before the Heat is On: Keep Your Cool
Today is National Heat Awareness Day. If not already, auto glass technicians will soon repair and replace glass in the summer heat. It is 100% possible to avoid heat illness and stroke if you know what to look out for … Continue reading
Fastest Growing Retailers: New Business, Promising Future
The secrets to success are different for each business. But, one thing is certain for these auto glass retailers: revenues continue to grow lightning fast as they put the COVID-19 pandemic in their rearview mirrors. AGRR takes an in-depth look … Continue reading
Slough Supercenter is New Direction for National Windscreens in the UK
National Windscreens celebrated the opening of its new supercenter in Slough last week. The center is the first of its kind for the company in the United Kingdom with a focus on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), according to a … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Hotel Soliciting Alert
In today’s digital world, it can be difficult to know which websites to trust. GlassBYTEs.com and AGRR™ magazine encourages you to only use Auto Glass Week’s official site when booking a hotel room for this year’s event. Event management cannot … Continue reading
Minority-Owned Family Businesses Work to Build Generational Wealth
“I’m the first one in my family, of 11 kids, that has done something as far as a business pushing myself to have something of my own,” Platinum Auto Glass owner Fred Quezada said. Click here to read more.
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A Day in the Life: Easy Fix
Mike Williams manages three franchise locations in B.C., in Vancouver, Aldergrove, and South Surrey. He has found that working in glass is a community-minded, people-first profession, one that has turned out to be—clearly—the right fit. Click here to read more. … Continue reading
NOVUS Glass Celebrates Kelowna Location
Kelowna in western Canada is the latest location for NOVUS Glass, and joins Fix Network’s global portfolio of locally owned and operated aftermarket franchise centers. Kelowna’s operations manager Scott Maciag has worked in glass repair and replacement for 12 years, … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged auto glass, Canada, Fix Network, franchise, Kelowna, NOVUS, windshield repair, windshield replacement, windshields Leave a comment
D’Ieteren Group Resumes Buy Back of Shares, Sets Future Plans
D’Ieteren Group, which owns 50.01% of Belron, the owner of Safelite AutoGlass and Safelite Solutions in the United States, continued its plan this week to buy back shares for nine to 12 months. The Group’s board of directors decided in … Continue reading
Auto Body and Glass Repair Shops Busy with Storm Damage in South Dakota
Glass companies are also incredibly busy as the extreme wind shattered glass in hundreds of vehicles caught out in the storm. Packages filled with replacement pieces have been arriving since the storm hit on Thursday but it could still be … Continue reading
Fast Growing Retailers: Revenue on the Rise
The secrets to success are different for each business. But, one thing is certain for five auto glass retailers: revenues continue to grow lightning fast as they put the COVID-19 pandemic in their rearview mirrors. AGRR takes an in-depth look … Continue reading
Caliber Celebrates 25 Years By Gifting 46 Vehicles
The Caliber family, including Caliber Collision, Caliber Auto Care and Caliber Auto Glass, celebrates 25 years in the industry by giving back to the communities it serves. In 2022, Caliber will gift 46 vehicles to individuals in need of reliable … Continue reading
Owners Say Toyota Highlander Windshield Chips and Cracks More Than it Should
Getting a chipped windshield in any car is almost as common as getting a flat tire. It’s happened to almost all of us and we either bought the repair kits or called the dealer and got it replaced. While more … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, Toyota Highlander, windshield, windshield repair, windshield replacement 2 Comments
At the Top: Auto Glass Retailers in 2022
Today, glassBYTEs.com takes a look at top auto glass retailers this year compared to AGRR’s 2020 list. Who remains on top? Were there any major changes? In the number one spot this year and in 2022, Belron and Safelite remain … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2022, AGRR, auto glass, business, Calibration, Top Retailers, windshield repair, windshield replacement, windshields 1 Comment
Ten Bad Driving Habits That are Not Good for Your Car
Last, but certainly not least, ignoring a windshield chip is not good for your car, because it increases the likelihood that the damage will worsen. Click here to read more.
Increasing Costs Continue to Impact Auto Glass Shops
Winter is over and summer is around the corner, but auto glass shops continue to struggle with the same challenges the new year presented in January. Costs of materials, availability of glass and the price of gasoline impact business. Patricia … Continue reading
Labor Shortage and Supply Chain Affect Boyd Group Inc. First Quarter 2022
In addition to adding 11 new locations in the first quarter of 2022, Boyd Group Services Inc. reported sales increased 32% compared to the first quarter of 2021. Boyd Group experienced $556.8 million in the first quarter of this year. … Continue reading
Synergies Raises $12M to Give Factory Managers an AI Analytics Assistant
The startup declined to disclose its valuation but said it’s serving nearly 100 customers, 80% of which are in Greater China, including mid-sized factories with thousands of workers run by Foxconn and Fuyao, one of the world’s largest auto glass … Continue reading
Driven Brands Exec Talks Expansion Plans
Driven Brands shot to the number three spot in AGRR magazine’s 2022 list of Top Auto Glass Retailers in the category of companies with $100-$200 million in revenue. In April 2022, the company announced it was acquiring All Star Glass, … Continue reading
Auto Windscreens Commits to Net-Zero Standard
Auto Windscreens joined the Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign, the world’s largest and fastest growing group of companies aligning to help halve global emissions by 2030. According to a company statement, Auto Windscreens is committed to the Science Based Targets … Continue reading
AGSC/NWRD ROLAGS 2 Standards Committee to Meet in June
The AGSC/NWRD ROLAGS 2 Standards Committee (windshield repair) will meet on Tuesday, June 14, 2022 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET. The meeting will be held electronically by Zoom. The agenda, related documents and instructions for joining the Zoom … Continue reading
Embrace Technology: Small Businesses Share Appreciation of Calibration
In celebration of National Small Business Week, glassBYTEs.com spoke with small business owners about why they got into auto glass, why they stay and what they think of the industry’s future. Innovation and Calibration Intermountain Auto Glass opened in Boise, … Continue reading
How Much Money Shops Lose When Sending Away ADAS Work
ADAS services are set to experience at least a 17 percent increase through 2030. Click here to read more.
Houston Rental Car Has Windshield Crushed by Mysterious Cement Block
The owner of the car says she’s asked police to look at security camera footage around the area in hopes of discovering what happened. As of Thursday afternoon, a formal police report has not been completed. Click here to read … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, cement block, Houston, windshield, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Report Further Proves Importance of Calibration, Pre- and Post-Scans
Humans do not have crystal balls to foresee the future, but more and more auto glass industry members see a future of more, not less, auto technology. “ADAS technology will over time lead to fewer auto accidents and vehicles needing … Continue reading
D’Ieteren Group Announces the Launch of a Transformational Project for its Headquarters
In response to the growth of the Group’s businesses and the changing urban environment, D’Ieteren Group has launched a project to upgrade its historic site and head office. In so doing, it is demonstrating its commitment to keep its roots … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, Brussels, D'Ieteren Group, headquarters, windshield repair, windshield replacement 1 Comment
The Dangers of Driving with a Damaged Windshield
When you have a damaged windshield, it impacts your driving in several ways. At first glance, it might seem like a minor issue — but the reality is that driving with a damaged windshield is a precarious proposition. Click here … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ADAS, auto glass, auto safety, windshield repair, windshield replacement, windshields Leave a comment
Ford Launches “Certified Glass Network”
Ford is introducing its own “Ford Certified Glass Network” (FCGN) for auto glass businesses that work on Ford vehicles. The automaker’s website says the program will help prepare technicians “to meet the highest quality standards for every Ford and Lincoln … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged ADAS, AGSC, auto glass, Calibration, certification, Ford, Ford Certified Glass Network, Lincoln, windshield replacement, windshields 1 Comment
Auto Glass Growth Included in Driven Brands Holdings Inc.’s First Quarter Results for 2022
The key word for Driven Brands Holdings Inc. (DBHI) in 2022 is growth. And auto glass services are part of that growth. In a conference call discussing quarterly results last Wednesday, president and CEO Jonathan Fitzpatrick said 2022’s growth will … Continue reading
Shops Pushing Back as Safelite Pushes for Auto Glass Laws
Safelite’s efforts led to passage of new laws in Utah and Arizona. As its efforts moved east, however, Safelite butted heads with another group that is offering its own vision about how to safely make repairs: The Auto Glass Safety … Continue reading
Driven Brands Acquires All Star Glass
Driven Brands Holdings Inc. has acquired All Star Glass, A chain of 30 auto glass shops located primarily in California, Arizona, Texas and Nevada. “We pride ourselves on offering simple, convenient solutions to the consumer and our glass services are … Continue reading
Ford Issues Positioning Statement on Glass
During windshield and side glass replacement and performing collision repairs requiring repair to the front and/or rear window channels, it is important to utilize Ford OEM repair procedures to ensure complete proper repairs are performed. Click here to read more. … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Aftermarket, auto glass, Ford, OEM, positioning statement, windshield repair, windshield replacement Leave a comment
I-CAR Announces Creation of Optional ADAS Technician Career Path
While currently an optional role for achieving Gold Class recognition, individuals who proceed with this career path will contribute to accurate system diagnostics, repairs and calibrations in addition to potentially creating a new revenue stream for shops that can capture … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ADAS, ADAS Technician, auto glass, Calibration, Gold Class, I-CAR, windshield replacement Leave a comment
The Dangers of Driving with a Damaged Windshield
When you have a damaged windshield, it impacts your driving in several ways. At first glance, it might seem like a minor issue — but the reality is that driving with a damaged windshield is a precarious proposition. Click here … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ADAS, auto glass, windshield repair, windshield replacement Leave a comment
One Sent to Hospital After Unsecured Load Crashes Through Windshield on Massachusetts Highway
The passenger of a sedan was hit by drywall that went through their vehicle’s windshield. The passenger was transported to Baystate Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Click here to read more.
AirPro Diagnostics Names New Vice President of Strategic Solutions
AirPro Diagnostics announces Fred Iantorno as vice president of strategic solutions. Iantorno will assist the company in technology integration opportunities and market awareness of the company’s calibration system, the AirPro Auggie. “We are excited to welcome Fred to the team … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Introduces Career Day
Building and supporting the next generation of technicians are vital to the auto glass repair and replacement industry. Auto Glass Week 2022, Sept. 14-16 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, will address this with Career Day, … Continue reading
Tesla Expands Insurance Offering to Three New States
Tesla says it is the second largest insurer of Teslas in Texas, one of its first auto insurance markets. Click here to read more.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, auto insurance, Colorado, insurance claims, Oregon, Tesla, Texas, Virginia, windshield repair, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Supply Chain and Materials Costs: Challenges Persist for Auto Glass Industry, Part 1
Call it what you will. Growing pains. Challenges. Opportunities for innovation. The auto glass industry is going through a difficult time of changes. “I think number one, that’s pretty obvious: the supply chain challenges,” says Ryan Mandell, director of performance … Continue reading
Insurer Won’t Pay for a New Windshield? State Law Requires They Offer That Option
In most states, comprehensive insurance covers replacement after you pay your deductible. Click here to read more.
Windshield-smashing home run earns Okeechobee player $500 scholarship
Instead of a banner at the high school field, Gilbert Ford in Okeechobee added a monster home-run wall with an image of an F-150 pickup truck as part of its “Bust the windshield” contest. Click here to read more.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, Gilbert Ford, Okeechobee, scholarship, windshield, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Tom Feeney Expands Roles
Tom Feeney, former CEO of the Safelite Group and current executive chairperson of Belron North America, is assuming additional roles in the automotive insurance industry. Hi Marley, creators of a communication platform designed for the insurance industry, announced last week … Continue reading
Large Hail Stones Crack Windshield During Severe Thunderstorm in South Dakota
Justin Frantzen recorded this footage of dangerous hail crashing down around him while he was in his car. “This is actually the first big hail I’ve ever been in,” Frantzen told Storyful. “I was worried that my windshield could’ve caved … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, auto safety, Hail, South Dakota, windshield, windshield replacement Leave a comment
NOVUS Glass Welcomes New Franchise Location
NOVUS Glass, an automotive glass repair and replacement services provider, adds St. Albans, Vermont to its franchise locations. According to a company statement, St. Albans is “a fully equipped facility with cutting-edge windshield repair and replacement tools and technologies. The … Continue reading
When is a Car Dealership Not a Car Dealership? When It Buys Auto Glass Companies
Bill Knight Automotive is a car dealership with Ford dealerships in Tulsa and Stillwater, Okla., Lincoln and Volvo dealerships in Tulsa, and collision repair centers in Tulsa, Stillwater, Broken Arrow, and Owasso, Okla. The company employs more than 320 people … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged auto glass, Bill Knight, Calibration, Ford, Lincoln, Volvo, windshield repair, windshield replacement 1 Comment
Company with 68 Years of History Closes its Doors in Illinois
Herb’s Glass & Mirror in Elgin, Ill., began as an auto glass shop 68 years ago. Known for the place to go to have windows in classic cars replaced, the business later also replaced windows in historic homes. A message … Continue reading
Where the Carmakers Stand on Pre- and Post-Scans
What do the carmakers say about pre- and post-calibration scans? While many do not address glass replacement directly, they do have positions on the necessity of performing scans when calibration or recalibration has been performed. Here’s what the manufacturers say, … Continue reading
Register Today and Reap the Rewards at Auto Glass Week™ 2022
Attendees, competitors, and sponsors— register today for Auto Glass Week™ 2022 (AGW). Auto Glass Week 2022 is designed specifically for your personal and business growth, filled with new prizes, hot networking opportunities, and educational development. Register now and benefit from … Continue reading
Gas Prices: ‘We Could See $5 a Gallon’ as Russia-Ukraine War Drags on, Strategist Says
Expect to see the average cost of gasoline hit $5 per gallon by the peak driving season if the Russia-Ukraine conflict isn’t resolved soon, says one strategist. Click here to read more.
GEICO Announces Auto Insurance Rate Increase in Illinois
Citing the inflation of repair and replacement prices, GEICO will be raising auto insurance rates in Illinois by an average of 6%. The new rates will go into effect on May 30, 2022. Click here to read more.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass claims, auto insurance rates, Geico, Illinois, windshield replacement Leave a comment
DuPont Clarifies Supply Chain Challenges
Auto glass adhesive suppliers are not immune to supply chain challenges. “Due to challenging domestic and global market conditions in 2021, supplies of raw materials have been constrained over the past several months causing unprecedented supply chain disruptions that impacted … Continue reading
Go! Glass Ottawa Earns Best Glass Repair Award
Go! Glass, an automotive glass repair and replacement company part of the Driven Brands family, celebrates winning Ottawa’s best glass repair with FACES Magazine 2022 Ottawa Awards for Go! Glass Ottawa. “Like every other industry, we’ve been affected by the … Continue reading
Not Telling a Customer about Calibration Could Cost You $2,500 in Arizona
If the Senate Bill 1410 recently passed in Arizona becomes law, auto glass shops that neglect to tell customers about calibration before they begin a glass replacement would be fined $2,500 —each time. The bill requires that customers be informed … Continue reading
Sudden Search for a New Career Proves Successful for Spouses Who Founded Arizona’s Reliable Glass
Aside from needing a windshield replaced or windows done in their home, neither Lorraine or Greg Tornga had any experience with the glass repair or installation industry. But when the tech bubble burst post-9/11 and left Greg suddenly unemployed, the … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged anniversary, Arizona, auto glass, Reliable Glass, windshield repair, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Back to Business: Maine Auto Glass Shop Owner Recovers After COVID-19
Norman and Betty Jo Cash are thankful for the support of their auto glass and Windham, Maine communities. “I had a serious bout with COVID, but I’m doing remarkably well, considering,” says Norman, 53. He and his wife, Betty Jo, … Continue reading
State Farm Reports Average Auto Hail Claims $5,000
Total Auto and Home insurance claims were $2.5 billion in 2021, down from $3.1 billion in 2020. Auto hail claims totaled $480 million. Click here to read more.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, auto insurance, Hail, State Farm, windshield, windshield repair, windshield replacement Leave a comment
UniGlassPlus Franchisees Awarded by International Franchise Association
Claire Lamarche and Jean-Francois Joyal, owners of UniGlassPlus/Ziebart Carleton Place in Carleton Place, ON, are Franchisees of the Year. The two were honored at the International Franchise Association (IFA) 62nd Annual Convention in San Diego, Calif., “for being an outstanding … Continue reading
Missouri Collision Shop Sues for $10 Million in ‘Steering’ Lawsuit
In Collision Company v. State Farm, Brad Buck seeks $10 million from the auto insurance company for allegedly aggressively steering business away from his Kirksville, Miss., collision repair shop. The lawsuit also names the Missouri director of insurance and three … Continue reading
The Cost of Calibration, Part 5: South Gulf
GlassBYTEs.com’s series discussing the cost of calibration in different U.S. regions concludes this week with the South Gulf area, which includes Texas, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky and Arkansas. Thirty year-old Venable Glass Services operates locations in Brandon and … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged ADAS, auto glass, auto insurance, Calibration, South Gulf, windshield replacement, windshields Leave a comment
The Cost of Calibration, Part 4: North Central
GlassBYTEs.com’s series discussing the cost of calibration in different U.S. regions continues this week with the North Central area. John and Beth Earl own Earl’s Auto Glass in Cozad, Neb. “I would agree with that,” Beth Earl says of the … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged ADAS, auto glass, auto insurance, Calibration, North Central, windshield replacement, windshields 1 Comment
Repairing, Replacing and … Tinting?
What’s your latest money multiplier? For Gilbert Quesada, owner of All Star Glass in Bosque Farms, N.M., repeat customers are facilitated and funneled with window film. “A customer will schedule a windshield replacement, and see all of my film and … Continue reading
On the Up and Up: Auto Glass Shops Struggle with Rising Costs
As the costs of auto glass materials rise steadily each month, how are auto glass shops making up for the difference in their reduced profit levels? The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest Producer Price Index data for January 2022 revealed … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged auto glass, auto glass shops, materials costs, PPI, Urethane, windshield replacement, windshields 4 Comments
Police Say No One was Hurt After Ice Flew Off a Commercial Vehicle and Shattered Windshield
Niagara police are reminding drivers to clear snow off their cars before hitting the road after a chunk of ice smashed through a windshield on the QEW. A photo shared on Twitter by the OPP Highway Safety Division Sunday afternoon … Continue reading
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Windshield?
A broken or cracked windshield is one of the most common vehicle repair problems motorists face. According to Insurance Journal, 30% of all automotive insurance claims are windshield-related. Approximately 14 million windshields are replaced in America each year. Drive long … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, auto insurance, windshield, windshield repair, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Auto Windscreens Appointed Preferred Supplier for Brightside
United Kingdom insurance broker Brightside has appointed Auto Windscreens a preferred provider for auto glass repair, replacement and ADAS calibration. Auto Windscreens maintains auto service centres across the United Kingdom, as well as mobile units. “We’re proud to be working … Continue reading
Oklahoma Auto Shops Struggle with Increased Demand, Supply Chain Issues
The threat of more winter storms is a cause for concern from auto body shops across the metro. They say hailstorms in Norman last year, plus supply chain issues, have caused a major backlog at garages across Oklahoma. Click here to read … Continue reading
Volvo Issues New Position Statement on Windshield Replacement
Volvo Car USA LLC has issued a statement that all windshield replacements on Volvo vehicles must be performed “according to Volvo standards at an authorized facility, using only Volvo Genuine Windshields and adhesives.” “The Volvo windshield is an integral part … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Aftermarket, authorized, auto glass, Volvo, windshield replacement 3 Comments
Windshield Cracks May Expose Bigger Issues
My 1998 Toyota Camry developed windshield cracks at the upper corners recently. They grew longer, so I took it to a national chain for a windshield replacement. They looked at it and said they wouldn’t replace the windshield until the … Continue reading
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The Cost of Calibration, Part 2: the West
In part 2 of our five-part series on the cost of calibration across the U.S., we look at the perspective of shops out west. Rick Valentine owns Intermountain Auto Glass in Boise, Idaho, where set pricing is in place for … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged ADAS, auto glass, auto insurance, Calibration, United States, West, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Sheets of Flying Ice Leading to Surge in Windshield Repairs
The phone at Mr. Windshield Auto Glass on Western Avenue has been ringing off the hook this week. “I haven’t stopped,” said Suzy Rocheleau, a customer service representative. “I haven’t even caught my breath.” Click here to read more.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, windshield repair, windshield replacement Leave a comment
The Cost of Calibration, Part 1: the Northeast U.S.
As technology advances in automobiles, the necessity for calibrating Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) after repair or replacement of a windshield is growing. But, who should pay for calibration? In a five-part series, glassBYTEs.com explores the cost in different regions … Continue reading
AGRR Bill Deferred to 2023 in Virginia Legislature
The Virginia House Highway Safety and Policy Subcommittee held a hearing on January 26 to consider 12 bills, one of which is related to auto glass safety and supported by the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC). The subcommittee held the … Continue reading
Local Auto Glass Shops Facing Glass Shortage
Most industries have experienced some sort of shortage during the pandemic. Now a global glass shortage is delaying car windshield and window replacements by weeks and even months in some cases. Click here to read more.
Cyber Pain: Mygrant Glass Website Down
As if the supply shortages in the auto glass industry weren’t challenging enough, in the last week officials at some auto glass shops that do business with Mygrant Glass have noticed the glass company’s online absence. “We’re going through some … Continue reading
Everything’s Gone: Recovery After Burglary
The morning after Christmas, Fresno Glass LLC of Fresno, Calif., had three visitors—and none of them were Santa Claus. The glass shop, which provides auto, commercial and residential glass services, was broken into and $50,000 to $100,000 worth of tools … Continue reading
Mr. Chip Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for New Location in Flushing
Mr. Chip Windshield Repair held a ribbon cutting with the Flushing Area Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the opening of its new location in downtown Flushing. Click here to read more.
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Driven Brands Acquires Auto Glass Now, Expands US Presence
Automotive services provider Driven Brands Holdings Inc. has acquired auto glass repair firm Auto Glass Now for $170 million, thus expanding its presence in the U.S. Click here to read more.
Driven Brands Acquires Auto Glass Now for $170 Million
Driven Brands Holdings Inc., headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., acquired Auto Glass Now’s more than 75 company-operated locations in the U.S. on Dec. 30. Auto Glass Now joins Driven Brands with more than 20 years of auto glass repair, replacement and … Continue reading
Technology Has Made Our Cars Safer, But a Cracked Windshield is the End of the World
There were times when the windshield lived up to its name, being nothing more than a piece of glass with the sole purpose of protecting against the wind. Click here to read more.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, technology, windshield repair, windshield replacement, windshields Leave a comment
Not in Kansas Anymore: Auto Glass Technician Shares Tornado Experience
Koty Crook lives and works in Hopkins County, ground zero for the tornado that swept through Kentucky on December 10. “It was a normal day,” Crook, 27, says of that Friday, which was also payday. Crook is a technician for … Continue reading
Local Auto Glass Companies Getting 50 Plus Calls a Week Amid Increase of Smash and Grab
While it’s not unusual this time of year for cars to be burglarized, auto glass companies say this year it’s reaching an all-time high. The phones at car repair shops have been ringing like crazy. Click here to read more. … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, auto glass shops, burglary, crime, windshield repair, windshield replacement, windshields Leave a comment
Through the Glass: Competition Turns into Friendship
Aaron Bradford and James Chapman met at Auto Glass Week 2021 in June as competitors in the Auto Glass Technician Olympics. Chapman, from Zanesville, Ohio, won third place, while Bradford placed fourth. “He beat me by one point,” Bradford says. … Continue reading
Driver Narrowly Escapes Injury as Loose Semi Wheel Crashes Through Windshield in Summit County
The Park City Fire District said a westbound semi on I-80 lost a wheel near mile 177, about nine miles east of Echo. The wheel rolled into the eastbound lanes and careened into a pickup truck. Photos from the scene … Continue reading
Gas Leak May Have Caused Explosion at Speedy Glass in Ontario
Garth Noye feels lucky to be alive after a major fire and massive explosion rocked a Midland commercial area Wednesday morning. Noye, who works at Speedy Auto Glass, was one of the dozens of onlookers, who watched as fire crews from … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged auto glass, explosion, fire, Midland, Ontario, Speedy Glass, windshield repair, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Auto Glass Companies Remain in Franchise Top 400
Several auto glass companies rose in ranks on the Franchise Times Top 400 for 2021 list. Rankings are based on sales in 2020 by companies with franchised locations. Glass Doctor is ranked at number 238 with 191 locations, including 179 … Continue reading
New Legislation is on the Move in Florida
Both the House and the Senate introduced new forms of legislation last week in Florida. The aim is to prevent shops from offering incentives to customers in exchange for making insurance claims for windshield replacements or repairs. House bill, H169 … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged H169, new bill, new legislation, S312, windshield repair, windshield replacement 3 Comments
Geico Files Complaint Against Shazam Auto Glass, LLC and Owner for Fraud
Geico Insurance Co. (Geico) has filed a federal lawsuit in Florida against Shazam Auto Glass, LLC, (Shazam) and its owner, Sean Martineau. The insurance company alleges Shazam and Martineau are responsible for a “fraudulent scheme” that included falsifying windshield replacement … Continue reading
Mercedes-Benz Releases Windshield Replacement Statement
According to a company press release, Mercedes-Benz USA said it “strongly recommends” using only Mercedes-Benz parts for windshield glass replacements. In the same release, the company mentioned the windshield glass manufactured for its vehicles has particular specifications. Other glass manufacturers … Continue reading
Blog: Converting Older Windshield Installations
Blog: Converting Older Windshield Installations
B.C. Shop Owners Adjust To Latest ICBC Change
The Insurance Company of British Columbia’s (ICBC’s) most recent policy change affects the way glass suppliers are reimbursed for moulding and windshield replacements. The changes became effective June 4, 2018. Windshield replacement costs were a main factor in the change … Continue reading
Auto Glass Shop Assists in Hit-and-Run Investigation
A windshield-replacement job brought the unusual resolution to a hit-and-run investigation in New Hampshire last month. Police in Dover, N.H., arrested Bruce Bernier, 61, of Newmarket, in connection with a hit-and-run incident April 2. According to police reports, a black … Continue reading
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Oklahoma Service Warranty Bill Heads to Governor
An Oklahoma bill related to service warranties has been passed by both the House and Senate and is now headed to Gov. Mary Fallin for her signature. The bill, SB 1142, relates to “service warranties; amending [the sections of the … Continue reading
Autoglass Launches Artificial Intelligence Technology
Autoglass, a vehicle glass repair and replacement company based in the UK and owned by Belron, says it has successfully trialed the latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to assess the severity of vehicle glass damage. The company says this can … Continue reading
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Florida Insurer Windshield Inspection Bill Clears Another Senate Committee
Florida state Sen. Dorothy Hukill’s proposed amendment to current legislation that would require an insurer’s inspection prior to a windshield repair or replacement cleared another Senate committee hearing. “[Auto glass repair] companies have been lurking in parking lots, waiting by … Continue reading
Judge Grants Timeline Extension for Campfield vs. Safelite Case
An Ohio judge has granted an extension in the timeline for the discovery phase of the lawsuit filed against Safelite Group, Inc. by Richard Campfield and Ultra Bond. Judge Michael Watson of the Eastern Division of the Southern District of … Continue reading
Tiny and Sons Glass Company Hosts Legislators
Last week, Peter Brown, president of Tiny & Sons, hosted 10 legislators from the Massachusetts state Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Business at his shop outside of Boston in Pembroke, Mass. The group was made up of Senators … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged auto glass, Tiny & Sons, TPAs, windshield replacement 2 Comments
ADAS: Keeping Windshield Repair and Insurance Costs Low
Auto insurance premiums have seen a surge in recent years—up 21.5 percent since 2012, according to consumer price index (CPI) figures from the U.S. Department of Labor. These stats represent one of the largest increases in a five-year span, second … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged ADAS, recalibration, windshield, windshield repair, windshield replacement 3 Comments
Deepest Discounts for Auto Glass Week™ End Next Month
Move quickly to take advantage of the deepest discounts and secure your spot at Auto Glass Week™ 2017 before early bird registration ends June 12. Early bird registration will save you up to $100 versus onsite registration. In addition to … Continue reading
AZ Glass Pros Announces New Windshield Replacement Services in Phoenix
AZ Glass Pros Announces New Windshield Replacement Services in Phoenix
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Mercedes Calls for OEM Glass in Windshield Replacement
Mercedes Benz USA “strongly recommends” using its glass for windshield replacements in a new position statement. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged MBUSA, Mercedes, OEM Glass, windshield replacement 1 Comment
ADAS Conference Stresses Need for Recalibration
Third-party recalibration solutions could leave drivers with unsafe vehicles after a windshield replacement – that was the message delivered at a conference in the United Kingdom November 17. Continue reading
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Rosekind: Vehicles with ADAS Must Be Repaired Correctly
“We want to focus initially on rolling out automatic-emergency braking. Let’s hope all the cameras and sensors work after the car is repaired,” said Mark Rosekind, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) administrator, during the Washington, D.C., Auto Show on Thursday. “When vehicles are repaired, including windshield replacement, let’s hope this technology works correctly. Continue reading
Police Department Seeks AGRR Industry’s Help Solving Fatal Hit and Run
The Seekonk Police Department in Massachusetts is asking AGRR company owners if they have replaced a windshield on a 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu or 2004-05 Malibu Classic, 1997-99 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 1997 or 1998 Oldsmobile Achieva. The car may have been involved in a hit and run. Continue reading
Auto Glass Safety Council E-Newsletter Now Available
The Auto Glass Safety Council has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Baltimore is the Place to be in 2014!
The 2014 Auto Glass Week™ (AGW), set to be held October 7-9, 2014, at the Baltimore Convention Center and Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, has something for everyone, including the whole family. While the event will offer educational seminars, an exhibition hall and the attendee-favorite, annual competitions, the city delivers an experience like no other. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, AGW, automotive glass, glassBYTEs.com, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Gold Medalists of Auto Glass Repair and Technician Competition Named
Danny Kale of Glasspro took home the gold medal for the NordGlass Auto Glass Technician Competition and Braulio Lopez of Repair and Go -Espana S.L. in Lugo-Galicia, Spain grabbed the gold for the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in honor of … Continue reading
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