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How much will it cost to replace the windshield in your newer Subaru Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, Ascent, or another model equipped with EyeSight safety technology? A report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) says it will cost more than you think, and it could shock you.

The IIHS reports Subaru vehicles equipped with EyeSight driver assist technology with cameras mounted on the windshield is the reason for the more expensive windshield replacement costs.

For example, a simple windshield replacement can cost as little as $250. But a separate Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) study found that vehicles equipped with front crash prevention, like newer Subaru models, were much more likely to have glass claims of $1000 or more. Much of the higher cost is related to having the EyeSight system recalibrated.

Sometimes the safety system must be repaired in the event of a crash. The IIHS report says vehicle repairs can make it necessary to calibrate Subaru’s EyeSight cameras and sensors that the features rely on to ensure they work correctly, a process that can be complicated and expensive.

Subaru’s EyeSight advanced safety system with crash avoidance features is now standard on the 2023 Subaru Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, Ascent, Legacy, and Solterra models. But the cost to replace the windshield is a hidden cost that can shock owners if they get a cracked windshield or, worse, if they have an accident and need further repairs to the system.

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 cars and 50 percent fewer pedestrian accidents. In addition, there was a 60 percent decrease overall in all driver accidents. But things like replacing a windshield are more expensive to repair.

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

Another study from Consumer Reports said 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.

Do you have to use an OEM windshield?

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.

In the Consumer Reports study, Hine said, “I’m 74 years old and retired, on a limited fixed income. 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 that the EyeSight system might not need to be recalibrated after replacing a windshield. 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 approved glass for the replacement to be successful.

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

All 2023 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 replacing a windshield 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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