Is A Replacement Windshield As Good As The Original?
Windshields can get damaged with chips or cracks. Smaller chips can be repaired, but larger ones require a replacement windshield. Some automakers recommend or require OEM glass for their cars with cameras or sensors that support Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This is to ensure the functionality of those systems.
Windshields can get damaged with chips or cracks. Smaller chips can be repaired, but larger ones require a replacement windshield.
Some automakers recommend or require OEM glass for their cars with cameras or sensors that support Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This is to ensure the functionality of those systems.
Cost
When it comes to a replacement windshield, there are different options available to you. One option is an OEM windshield, which is the glass that was originally in your vehicle. This type of windshield is made by the same company that produced your car, so it should meet or exceed all the quality and safety standards set by your manufacturer. However, OEM windshields are generally more expensive than non-OEM windshields.
Another option is a third-party windshield made by a company not affiliated with your automaker. Third-party windshields are usually cheaper than OEM windshields, but they may not be as good in terms of safety and quality. Another thing to keep in mind is that if your car is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, such as rain sensors or lane-keeping assist systems, you will need to have these cameras and sensors recalibrated after getting a new windshield.
The cost of a replacement windshield depends on several factors, including the year, make, and model of your vehicle. Windshields for luxury vehicles, such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, typically cost more to replace than windshields for more common cars like Honda and Toyota. Also, windshields equipped with features such as rain sensors or advanced driver assistance systems will cost more to replace than windshields without these features.
In some cases, a replacement windshield can be covered by your insurance policy, which means that you will not have to pay for it out of pocket. However, this only applies if you have comprehensive coverage of your policy. If you only have liability coverage, you will need to pay for the repair or replacement out of your pocket.
Another factor that will determine the cost of a windshield replacement is how extensive the damage is. Windshields are made of tempered glass, meaning they will shatter into small, granular pieces when broken. Small bullseye chips, which look like concentric circles, can often be repaired, but larger star breaks require a full replacement. This is because these larger cracks will spread quickly and affect other parts of the windshield if not repaired immediately.
Durability
When windshield cracks or chips, many drivers are looking for a solution that will last longer than a quick repair. While a chip may seem minor, it can be the seed for a crack that grows and spreads over time. This is why choosing a replacement windshield that meets industry specifications and has been tested by the Department of Transportation is important.
Choosing an OEM windshield can help you avoid this problem, as these windshields are made from high-quality, durable glass designed to resist stress. This means that your replacement windshield will last longer than aftermarket versions. In addition, OEM windshields are backed by the car manufacturer’s warranty, so you can be confident that you’re getting a quality product.
While aftermarket manufacturers create windshields that meet DOT-certified equivalency standards, this doesn’t mean they all make the same quality glass. Some of them are much better than others, which is why it’s important to shop around for the best windshield for your vehicle.
Another thing to keep in mind is that aftermarket windshields aren’t always the same size as original ones. This can cause problems when it comes to ensuring that the new windshield fits correctly. In addition, it may also reduce the visibility of your vehicle’s head-up display.
If your vehicle has ADAS features like lane keeping assist system, forward collision warning, and blind spot detection, you’ll want to use an OEM windshield to preserve the functionality of these technologies. Likewise, if your vehicle is on the newer end of the spectrum, we recommend using an OEM windshield to ensure that all sensors and cameras have a clear view of the road. This will prevent inaccurate readings, which can lead to unintentional braking or disabling of the features. If you’re shopping for a new windshield, make sure to compare the prices of both OEM and aftermarket products to find one that offers the best value. Unless you’re an experienced auto glass technician, leaving the installation job to a professional is generally a good idea. They’ll have the right equipment and tools to do a stress-free job.
Safety
Your windshield is an important safety feature of your car that protects you from flying debris and supports the structural integrity of your vehicle’s roof in a rollover collision. This is why it’s so crucial not to let insurance companies pressure you into getting cheap aftermarket replacement windshields that may not meet your original glass’s quality and safety standards.
When it comes to your safety, a replacement windshield should always be the same size, shape, and color as your original windshield. It should be just as durable and long-lasting, and it should also be compatible with your vehicle’s new technology, like lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. Many aftermarket manufacturers cut corners to bring their prices down, and this can mean your replacement glass will not be as safe or compatible with your car’s features.
While it’s rare for a windshield to completely shatter, it’s not uncommon for a rock or other debris to cause a chip in your windshield. Then, as the temperature changes throughout the day, that little chip can slowly spread into a crack that can block your view of the road and put you at risk of an accident. This is why it’s so important to repair your windshield with a professional glass company as soon as possible.
It’s not only a matter of your own safety, but it’s also a matter of how much you value the comforts and conveniences of your vehicle. If you choose to go with an aftermarket replacement glass, you might end up with a windshield that doesn’t match your car’s style or safety features, and this could lead to problems down the line, including air leaks and unreliable technology compatibility.
If you’re unsure whether you need a replacement windshield, our expert team is here to help! We can answer your questions about the best type of glass for your vehicle, and we will work with you to ensure you have the right coverage on your insurance policy. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Appearance
One of the main reasons to choose a replacement windshield is that it will look better than the old windshield and add to the overall appearance of your vehicle. In addition, a new windshield will provide improved visibility for safer driving. It will also help to reduce the risk of glare from headlights on the road.
Choosing a company that uses only OEM or approved aftermarket glass for your windshield replacement is important. This will ensure that the windshield fits correctly and meets your car manufacturer’s standards. A good way to tell if the windshield is OEM is to check for a stamp or monogram in the corner of the windshield. The stamp or monogram will typically include the name of your vehicle’s manufacturer as well as the brand of the windshield.
A reputable installer will be able to trace the original glass back to the vehicle manufacturer, which will guarantee that the glass meets your specific quality and safety requirements. This is not always possible with aftermarket or generic glass, which may have different thicknesses and clarity than the original windshield. In addition, aftermarket and generic glass are usually manufactured from recycled materials, which can affect its durability and performance.
OEM glass is more expensive than aftermarket or generic glass, but it offers a number of benefits that can justify the higher cost. OE glass is made to specifications set by the automaker, which usually results in high-quality glass that exceeds federal safety standards. On the other hand, aftermarket and generic glass are made to a lower standard. This is because the specialized specifications used by the automakers are confidential for business and copyright reasons. As a result, aftermarket and generic manufacturers have to reverse engineer the OE glass, which can result in important details being overlooked, such as the thickness and clarity of the glass.
After the installation, you should take your car for a test drive to ensure the new windshield has settled in place without any issues. If you hear a whooshing sound when you drive at speed, this indicates that the adhesive has not fully cured. This can result in gaps or cracks forming in the fixture.