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Consumers want new advanced safety features on their vehicles, like forward collision warning, emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Subaru’s EyeSight advanced safety system with these systems is now standard on the 2021 Subaru Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, Ascent, and Legacy models. But the cost to replace the windshield is a hidden cost that can shock owners if they get a cracked windshield.

Consumer Reports says the advanced safety systems are making new cars safer. The Institute for Traffic Accident Research and Data Analysis (ITARDA) investigation found Subaru vehicles equipped with the EyeSight safety system had an 80 percent decrease in rear-end collisions between vehicles and 50 percent fewer pedestrian accidents. There was a 60 percent decrease overall in all driver accidents. But things like replacing a windshield is more expensive to repair.

What does it cost to replace a Subaru windshield with EyeSight?

CR says Ted Hine was shocked when the dealership quoted $1,400 for a replacement windshield for his Subaru Forester. The reason it’s so expensive is Subaru uses OEM windshields, and after it’s installed, the EyeSight cameras located on the windshield need to be recalibrated. If there are any distortions on the new glass, EyeSight will not work correctly.

There are cheaper alternatives than going to a Subaru retailer. Companies like Safelite AutoGlass and other national companies quoted between $650-$700 for the Forester windshield. But then it costs an additional $220 for the EyeSight technology recalibration. This still brings the total to $900.

“I’m 74 years old and retired, on a limited fixed income,” Hine said. “I can’t afford $900-plus for a windshield every time a truck randomly throws a rock at me.”

Does EyeSight have to be recalibrated every time?

We contacted a Subaru retailer near Denver, and they told us after a windshield is replaced, the EyeSight system may not need to be recalibrated. After the new glass is in, a light on the dash will stay lit if it’s not working correctly. If the light goes out, the new glass is good. But it’s important to use OEM or approve glass for the replacement to be successful.

This will still cost you $650 or more depending on the model. Subaru’s YouTube video says a new windshield with labor cost, and EyeSight recalibration is $1,000+.

All 2021 Subaru Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, and Ascent SUVs now come standard with EyeSight technology. It will protect you in the event of a crash and decrease the chance of an accident. The downside is, repairs like a windshield replacement will cost you more.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

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