Windscreen and Headlight Damage: How Small Claims Affect Your No-Claims Discount

A stone thrown up by a lorry on the motorway leaves a crack in your windscreen, or a headlight gets broken on a narrow street. The damage is not huge, but the repair bill is not trivial either. Most drivers then ask the same question: if I claim on my kasko (comprehensive motor insurance), will I lose my no-claims discount? This guide explains the general logic for glass, lights and similar small damage, and how to make a sensible decision.

How the no-claims discount works

In kasko, each claim-free period can turn into a premium advantage at renewal, commonly called the no-claims discount. If a kasko claim is paid during the period, that advantage may be reduced or lost. How the discount is calculated and which claims affect it varies by insurer and policy.

Do not confuse two separate systems. Compulsory traffic insurance uses a step system linked to accidents where you were at fault and the other party was paid. The kasko no-claims discount relates to payments for your own car. For more on the traffic insurance side, read no-claims discounts in motor insurance.

Why glass damage is treated separately

Glass claims are common and many policies treat them in a special way. In some kasko policies, glass replacement under certain conditions does not affect the no-claims discount; in others, every payment may. The difference is written in the policy’s special conditions. Check:

• Whether glass claims affect the no-claims discount,
• Whether this privilege is limited by a number of claims or a condition,
• Whether replacement must be done at a contracted glass service,
• Whether original or equivalent parts are used,
• Whether sunroofs and rear windows are treated the same way.

Repair or replace?

Small stone chips and short cracks can sometimes be repaired rather than replaced; the service decides based on size and position. Damage in the driver’s line of sight is a safety issue first. On newer cars with sensors and cameras behind the windscreen, ask specifically how your policy handles replacement.

Headlights, mirrors and bumpers

Headlights, side mirrors, indicators and bumper scratches are usually handled differently from glass and, in most policies, count as a standard claim. So claiming for a small broken headlight may affect your discount. Some policies include mini-repair services for minor damage; their effect on the discount also depends on the policy.

Claim on kasko or pay yourself?

The right choice comes down to a simple comparison:

1. Get a repair estimate from a service or authorised workshop.
2. Ask about the effect on your discount for this type of claim under your policy.
3. Estimate the renewal impact: ask your agent for an idea of the premium difference if the discount is reduced.
4. Factor in the deductible, if your policy has one.
5. Compare the cost of paying yourself against the long-term effect of claiming.

This is especially important close to renewal. Also ask your agent whether you can report the damage without claiming payment; notification and a claim are not always the same thing.

If the other driver was at fault

If another driver broke your headlight or bumper, claim from their compulsory traffic insurance. Since you are not using your own kasko, your kasko no-claims discount is not affected. An accident report or official record is the key document.

Three quick scenarios

• Stone chip cracks the windscreen: if your policy protects the discount for glass claims, claiming usually makes sense. If not, compare the repair cost with the discount loss.
• You break a headlight while parking: likely a standard claim. Close to renewal and with a manageable repair cost, paying yourself may be better.
• Another car breaks your mirror: if the driver is known, claim from their traffic insurance and protect your discount.

Before deciding, a short call to your agent lets you compare the figures against your actual policy terms. An agent working with several insurers knows their different rules and can save you time.

Common mistakes with small damage

• Assuming glass claims never affect the discount without reading the policy,
• Claiming on your own kasko when the other driver was at fault,
• Driving for weeks with a cracked windscreen; cracks can spread and affect safety,
• Repairing without photos or records.

Comparing glass and small-damage terms when choosing a new policy is the easiest way to avoid surprises at renewal. To review these terms in your policy, see our comprehensive car insurance (kasko) in Maslak page, call us on +90 530 375 89 61 or send a message on WhatsApp — our team offers English support.