Heated windscreen - surface scratch

[JC888]

I suppose I'm lucky the damage doesn't look as serious as it sounded but it's been an expensive year for me so far in terms of car maintenance...

I can see 3 very small (about 5mm) surface scratch on my heated windscreen at the lower corner passenger side (definitely out of normal driving line of sight).

Question is do I leave it or get it repaired? Is this repairable without changing the whole windscreen?

[Lexman8]

I'm no expert on this but my instinct would be to get them repaired. If there is any depth to the scratches they may become a focal point for thermal shock if you use the heated screen when it's frozen?

Windscreen repairs use a compound with similar optical properties to glass so they become almost invisible as well as providing the necessary strength and protection.

Most insurers will cover the cost for a nominal fee and it won't affect your NCB (at least in theory).

[Driver Dave]

My insurers, NFU, will pay for a repair with no excess and no impact on NCD. Screen replacement has an excess which varies depending if you use their recommended replacement company or go elsewhere.

All the insurance companies I have had dealings with in the past have had a similar policy.

[skippyfox]

Defo get them repaired asap. The longer it's left the less chance of a successful repair.

[JC888]

Had windscreen repair in the past (although not heated) and fairly confident this damage can be filled in however it won't be 100% transparent.

I will get in touch with my insurance and arrange for a repair.

Edit: This is interesting, I've gone to my insurers website and there's a link to AutoGlass for repairs. Looking at my insurance documents glass repairs would be covered under the comprehensive policy.
There was some questions on AutoGlass website to fill in about the damage (mine was windscreen, 3 chips and largest chip about 3mm/size of match stick head 3mm) and the website says I don't need repair. I will measure again tomorrow to get a more accurate size.

[Driver Dave]

If you have an Autoglass outlet nearby I would take it in and let them have a look at it, a small chip can soon develop into a major crack, especially on these screens which are extremely thin.

[SimNugget]

I had similar on my BMW M2, had it repaired at my cost £30 as my insurance still wanted £50 excess to repair it. I was worried about frost and ice turning it into a crack. I can definitely still see it, but it is smooth externally and the air has been pushed out with the resin so should prevent cracks forming.

I am always loathe to have replacement windscreens fitted as non OEN parts are often shyate and with all the cameras, auto lights and HUD stuff nowadays I just don’t want the hassle.

S

[JC888]

Thanks all. I will contact AutoGlass and see what they say.
Below are better images of the scratches:

[SwissXC90]

The trouble is that when they are small like yours the filler may not stay in place. Best drive to the glass company and let them look and asses it themselves

[JC888]

Thanks all. It's £10 excess on mine and I suppose for peace of mind it's best to book an appointment and let them have a look at it.