The Most Expensive Car Part: €2 Billion for Windshields

In Germany, the costs of car windshield repairs have sharply increased. According to GDV data, in 2024 insurance companies paid nearly €2 billion for 2.2 million cases of windshield damage. The average damage amounted to €900, which is 7% more than the previous year and 77% higher than in 2014 when glass replacement cost €509. Experts attribute the rise to three key reasons. Firstly, the prices of spare parts are soaring: windshields have increased by over 50%, and rear lights by almost 90%. Secondly, service rates are rising: by approximately 8% in the last year. Finally, modern cars require complex calibration of cameras and sensors after any intervention, even a simple glass replacement.