Repairing small windshield cracks. Out of pocket vs insurance
 

I have two penny-sized cracks near the middle of my front windshield. A local shop is quoting me about 80 dollars to repair both, which I think is quite reasonable. I also found out that GEICO has free windshield repair coverage. What would you do in my shoes? Other than paying out of pocket, are there downsides to going with the local shop? (I am thinking if there are weird things that could happen with the maintenance record of the car)

Thanks!

I went the insurance route. As long as you don't make a habit out of it, it's part of your comprehensive coverage and does not affect your insurance rate

Thanks! Just to update everyone: I ended up with going through my insurance. They sent someone to me the same day to fill in the cracks. Experience was p good.