My '92 Metro needs a windshield replacement. I can buy a replacement for about $125.00. Can a person with average abilities / tools replace a windshield in the driveway in an afternoon, or is it worth the additional $100.00 to have a glass shop do it?
thanks,

Windshield replacement is, generally speaking, not that hard. I have only done a couple (not on geo though) and one of the important things is to get the proper window sealant. I got mine at NAPA but I am pretty sure you can get it at just about any auto parts place. It is specifically made for windshield installations. I cannot remember what it is called but ask at the store and they will know. You also have to buy a wire knife to cut out the old one.

If you can get it done for $100 you might want to consider that. You can certainly do it yourself but it can be messy and if you break the new windshield during the install there goes your savings. Your auto insurance company also might cover window repairs 100%. Mine did and I did not even know it.

If you decide to DIY, it would be cool if you posted some pics on the forum as you go.

Best of luck:thumbsup:

IMHO spend the $100 and have it done.

Call every place in the phone book !

It is like buying tires! The variations in price are astounding !

If you find a place not doing much business, it is likely they will give you a "special price" to get the business.

They don't like the help sitting around on their hands with nothing to do....
the installers are being paid whether they work or not - better to have them working!

If you don't get a good price, wait two weeks and try again.
Business changes from week to week.

The time spent on the phone will be well worth it !

BTW - try the insurance thing ! You don't have anything to lose....

DoctorBill

My '92 Metro needs a windshield replacement. I can buy a replacement for about $125.00. Can a person with average abilities / tools replace a windshield in the driveway in an afternoon, or is it worth the additional $100.00 to have a glass shop do it?
thanks,
Honestly, Your going to buy/rent a tool that cuts thru the old Urethane sealant, remove the window lace, cut thru the old Urethane, remove the windshiels, clean all the old Urethane out of the mounting surfaces, Apply a new bead of black Urethane sealant, then use a couple of suction cups on the windshield to guide it correctly into position......And most likely need help from an assistant to do the project. I've literally installed 1000's of windshields and back-glasses on cars in my 30+ years at GM but when my 91 Buick Century had a leaking windshield, I took it to a local place and they resealed it for me. The hassle was not worth the $$$ they charged me............At a $100.00 to do your front winshield, I would let them do it too!