windshield damage opinion
01-02-2017, 05:42 PM
#2
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2011
Posts: 1,648
Pulled this from another web site:
An OEM windshield will be identical to the original, factory installed windshield that came with your car when it was brand new. These windshields may not necessarily manufactured by the company who made the windshield originally installed on your car, but they are nearly identical in almost every way. This glass is manufactured according to your car maker’s very specific regulations, and should match your original in size, shape, and color. The thickness and durability should be identical as well. It’s important to note that these windshields are also certified by the Department of Transportation, so you can be assured of their safety.
Aftermarket glass is manufactured by auto glass companies who don’t necessarily contract with specific auto makers. Since these companies are not manufacturing OEM windshields under contract for the auto manufacturer, they don’t have to abide by specific manufacturer guidelines. In fact, due to copyright laws, auto glass companies are actually prohibited from producing windshields that are identical to the factory-installed versions. Obviously, the size and shape will have to be identical, because otherwise the glass would not fit into your vehicle. However, the thickness and durability may be different, and the color of the tint may vary slightly as well.
Some consumers complain that their aftermarket windshields leak or produce excess noise. Others may notice a wavy quality to the glass, or the different color to the tint may be displeasing. While the differences are usually small, very discriminating car owners may be displeased with their aftermarket glass. Others, however, report little to no difference between their car’s original windshield and their new aftermarket version.
Like most things, the decision may come down to money. Insurance companies may only cover aftermarket glass, because it is less expensive. This leaves the car owner to decide whether they want to pay extra for an OEM windshield. Many aftermarket windshields work out very well for the consumer, but those not willing to take a risk on slightly lower quality will often choose to invest in an OEM windshield.
One final note on OEM windshields vs aftermarket: If the vehicle is leased, the leasing contract may specifically state that the windshield can only be replaced with an OEM windshield. Any time the windshield in a leased vehicle is to be replaced, the driver should check their leasing agreement very carefully for this specification. Otherwise, extra charges may be assessed when the vehicle is returned at the end of the leasing period.
I have replaced two windshields in the past and have used OEM and have not had any problems. My insurance paid for OEM glass, less my deductible.
An OEM windshield will be identical to the original, factory installed windshield that came with your car when it was brand new. These windshields may not necessarily manufactured by the company who made the windshield originally installed on your car, but they are nearly identical in almost every way. This glass is manufactured according to your car maker’s very specific regulations, and should match your original in size, shape, and color. The thickness and durability should be identical as well. It’s important to note that these windshields are also certified by the Department of Transportation, so you can be assured of their safety.
Aftermarket glass is manufactured by auto glass companies who don’t necessarily contract with specific auto makers. Since these companies are not manufacturing OEM windshields under contract for the auto manufacturer, they don’t have to abide by specific manufacturer guidelines. In fact, due to copyright laws, auto glass companies are actually prohibited from producing windshields that are identical to the factory-installed versions. Obviously, the size and shape will have to be identical, because otherwise the glass would not fit into your vehicle. However, the thickness and durability may be different, and the color of the tint may vary slightly as well.
Some consumers complain that their aftermarket windshields leak or produce excess noise. Others may notice a wavy quality to the glass, or the different color to the tint may be displeasing. While the differences are usually small, very discriminating car owners may be displeased with their aftermarket glass. Others, however, report little to no difference between their car’s original windshield and their new aftermarket version.
Like most things, the decision may come down to money. Insurance companies may only cover aftermarket glass, because it is less expensive. This leaves the car owner to decide whether they want to pay extra for an OEM windshield. Many aftermarket windshields work out very well for the consumer, but those not willing to take a risk on slightly lower quality will often choose to invest in an OEM windshield.
One final note on OEM windshields vs aftermarket: If the vehicle is leased, the leasing contract may specifically state that the windshield can only be replaced with an OEM windshield. Any time the windshield in a leased vehicle is to be replaced, the driver should check their leasing agreement very carefully for this specification. Otherwise, extra charges may be assessed when the vehicle is returned at the end of the leasing period.
I have replaced two windshields in the past and have used OEM and have not had any problems. My insurance paid for OEM glass, less my deductible.
01-03-2017, 05:32 AM
#4
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Central Florida
Posts: 1,802
I have had 3 different windshields on my 09 and quite frankly the Safelite installed PPG seemed to be the most long lived (or at least most resilient to the type of stones in FL!) as well as clearest of the lot (as well as or better than OEM)
The OEM windshield did not offer anything unique in my experience.
The OEM windshield did not offer anything unique in my experience.
01-04-2017, 09:52 AM
#5
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Connecticut
Posts: 392
Your good with an aftermarket windshield. Now if your replacing a side window that is tinted, that is a different story. There is a difference and I would go with OEM or your tint guy will have to do their best to match it.
Yes past experience.
Yes past experience.