Regarding car services in Abu Dhabi, windshield replacement is one of those services that get car owners by surprise—particularly when there are surprise expenses. Although the price quoted can be simple at first glance, hidden expenses usually add up and considerably hike your overall cost. Knowing these costs beforehand is crucial not to be surprised, whether because of local law, the nature of the car you drive, or installation intricacies. In this blog, we will guide you through the possible hidden expenses to look out for when your windshield replacement is done in Abu Dhabi so you can make the best decision and stay within your means.
1. OEM vs Aftermarket Glass
One initial concealed expense occurs when deciding between aftermarket and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass. Aftermarket glass is usually less expensive, although the insurers or vehicle warranties might call for OEM replacement, which can be costly. Most consumers are initially presented with a low cost but discover later that their dealership or insurance won’t cover aftermarket parts.
With high vehicle standards and quality in Abu Dhabi, car owners tend to feel pressured to opt for OEM to preserve resale value or comply with registration needs. This change can increase your total cost of windshield replacement by 20–50%.
2. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Calibration
New cars have features like lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control, which are based on sensors and cameras usually mounted near or on the windshield. Replacing the windscreen renders these systems inoperable and needs to be recalibrated for them to work correctly.
Recalibration is a unique process that might not be part of your original quote. Depending on the make and model of your car, this could increase your final bill by anything from AED 400 to AED 1,500. Not recalibrating might jeopardize your safety and result in future repair bills or insurance claims.
3. Charges for Labor and Installation
Quotes for windscreen replacement may only represent the price of the glass, excluding the labor and service charges. In Abu Dhabi, where service standards are high, qualified labor does not come cheaply. Fitting charges may differ depending on the complexity of the car, the tools involved, and even if the service is done on-site or at a garage.
There can be convenience fees if your mobile service is provided—wherein a technician visits you at your place. They will cost anything from AED 100 to AED 300, depending on whether you are far away from the servicing organization.
4. Removal and Disposal of the Old Windshield
This is an often-overlooked cost. Some service centers charge a fee to remove and safely dispose of your old windshield, mainly if it contains glass embedded with sensors or heating elements. While it may seem minor, these fees can range from AED 50 to AED 200, depending on environmental disposal regulations.
In Abu Dhabi, specific municipal laws require that hazardous materials like laminated glass be disposed of in a particular way, which increases the service center’s cost—and yours.
5. Weatherproofing Materials and Sealants
Your initial quote may not include weatherproofing sealants, trims, and adhesives necessary for a proper windshield installation. High-quality sealants ensure the glass remains watertight and safe, which is particularly important in Abu Dhabi’s hot and dusty climate.
Choosing higher-quality materials will be more expensive, but omitting them may cause leaks or even a replacement within a few years. Plan for an extra AED 100 to AED 250 for top-quality sealants and corresponding materials.
6. Insurance Deductibles and Exclusions
Though most Abu Dhabi car owners use their insurance to pay for windshield replacements, all policies differ. Some only pay for part of the expense, come with a high deductible or do not offer coverage for aftermarket glass.
Also, making a claim could affect your no-claims discount in the long term. Always check the small print and see if the full price is included or if you will pay out-of-pocket for specific components or services.
7. VAT and Other Taxes
The UAE enforces a Value-Added Tax (VAT) of 5%, which may not be included in the advertised replacement cost. Always confirm whether the quote includes VAT. For a high-end windshield replacement that costs around AED 2,000, that’s an additional AED 100—a significant amount if you’re on a tight budget.
8. Emergency or Same-Day Service Charges
In cases of extensive damage to your windshield that compromises safety, you may choose same-day or emergency service. Convenient as they are, such speeded-up services generally come at an additional cost. Abu Dhabi service providers can bill AED 200 to AED 500 extra for priority setting, particularly during weekends or outside working hours.
9. Replacement of Tinting or UV Protection Film
A lot of Abu Dhabi windshields have UV-protective films or factory-installed tinting. These must be reapplied when replacing the windscreen, especially if you have aftermarket glass. This can cost between an extra AED 150 to AED 500, depending on the quality of the film and the coverage area.
10. Possible Interior Cleaning or Detailing
Replacing a windshield involves cutting through adhesives and handling glass, which can leave your dashboard, upholstery, or carpeting dusty or sticky. While not always necessary, interior cleaning may be offered or required post-installation and can cost AED 100 to AED 250, especially if you’re driving a luxury vehicle.
Conclusion
Windshield repair Abu Dhabi involves more than just swapping out a piece of glass. From recalibration to dumping and VAT, the unseen expenses can soon mount up. Always request a thorough, itemized quotation before sanctioning the job to prevent being surprised. Ensure it incorporates all the materials, labor, taxes, and extra services depending on your vehicle’s features. Knowing beforehand will enable you to plan more effectively and make your life safer and locally compliant.
Through awareness of these hidden expenses, you can get windshield replacements in Abu Dhabi without worries or financial dilemmas.