I was in the chip repair business for several years. Most insurance companies will pay the entire cost of repairing the chip, and waive the deductible.

My advice is to stay away from the DIY repair kits; it takes an experienced hand to make an acceptable repair to a chip. Before you allow just anyone to attempt a repair, ask if they have to drill the windshield prior to the repair. There are some repair systems that do not require a hole be drilled in order to inject the repair resin, and they are the best.

The sooner you decide whether to repair or replace, the better. Even a week of driving, under normal conditions, will allow dirt, water, and all manner of contaminants to enter the laminate, and will reduce the chance of an acceptable repair.

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1980 300SD 146K miles.