Windshield Replacement Price Trends for 2026
Windshield replacement prices have increased 15-25% since 2023, driven primarily by the proliferation of ADAS technology requiring post-replacement calibration, supply chain normalization at higher price levels, and increasingly complex glass technology in newer vehicles. The average windshield replacement in Colorado now costs $375 to $550 including calibration, up from $280 to $400 three years ago. ADAS calibration alone accounts for roughly half of the price increase, adding $150 to $350 to jobs that previously did not require it. Glass material costs have stabilized but remain 10-15% above pre-2023 levels. Looking ahead through the remainder of 2026, prices are expected to remain stable with modest increases as more vehicles on the road require calibration. The best strategy for consumers is comparing multiple providers and choosing those who include calibration in their base quote rather than adding it as a surprise charge.
The auto glass industry has experienced significant price shifts over the past four years. Supply chain disruptions, ADAS technology proliferation, and rising labor costs have all pushed windshield replacement prices higher. This analysis breaks down the current trends and what they mean for consumers comparing prices in 2026.
Average Price Trends: 2022 to 2026
| Year | Avg. Aftermarket | Avg. OEE | Avg. OEM | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $230 | $350 | $520 | Baseline |
| 2023 | $250 | $380 | $570 | +8-10% |
| 2024 | $265 | $410 | $620 | +6-9% |
| 2025 | $280 | $430 | $650 | +4-6% |
| 2026 (est.) | $290 | $450 | $680 | +3-5% |
The rate of increase has slowed from the supply-chain peak of 2022-2023, but prices continue to climb. The overall trend since 2022 represents a 20-30% increase depending on glass type.
Key Drivers of 2026 Pricing
1. ADAS Proliferation
As of 2026, approximately 85% of new vehicles sold have at least one ADAS feature that requires windshield-mounted cameras. This means windshield replacement increasingly includes mandatory camera calibration at $150-$300 per event. Five years ago, this added cost applied to fewer than half of replacements.
2. Advanced Glass Technology
Modern windshields increasingly include acoustic interlayers, IR-reflective coatings, heated wiper zones, heads-up display surfaces, and rain-sensing zones. Each feature adds $30-$150 to the glass cost compared to basic windshields.
3. Labor Cost Increases
Skilled auto glass technicians are in high demand. Labor rates have increased 10-15% since 2023, and the complexity of modern installations requires more training and certification.
ADAS Impact on Total Replacement Cost
| ADAS Status | Glass + Labor | Calibration | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| No ADAS | $250 - $500 | $0 | $250 - $500 |
| Basic ADAS (1 camera) | $280 - $550 | $150 - $250 | $430 - $800 |
| Advanced ADAS (multi-sensor) | $350 - $700 | $250 - $400 | $600 - $1,100 |
Read more about how ADAS affects your quote in our ADAS pricing guide.
What This Means for Price Comparison
Rising prices make comparison shopping more valuable, not less. The spread between the cheapest and most expensive quote for the same vehicle has widened in 2026:
| Vehicle Category | Lowest Quote | Highest Quote | Savings Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy sedan | $220 | $600 | Up to $380 |
| Midsize SUV | $300 | $900 | Up to $600 |
| Luxury/EV | $500 | $1,600 | Up to $1,100 |
Seasonal Price Patterns in 2026
Windshield replacement demand is seasonal, and pricing reflects this. In Colorado, hail season (May through August) drives peak demand and can push wait times to 1-2 weeks with premium pricing. The best time to replace a windshield is typically late fall or winter when demand drops. See our seasonal pricing guide for month-by-month analysis.
Price Outlook for the Rest of 2026
Industry data suggests windshield prices will continue to rise modestly in 2026, driven primarily by increasing ADAS prevalence and ongoing labor cost pressures. The rate of increase is expected to moderate compared to 2022-2024. Aftermarket glass prices may stabilize as manufacturing capacity catches up with demand, while OEM prices will continue to rise as vehicles become more technologically complex. The best strategy for consumers is to compare multiple quotes, consider OEE glass as a value alternative, and time non-urgent replacements for lower-demand periods.
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