Which Replacement Windshield is Right For You?
A good windshield is essential to car safety and structural integrity. However, it can be damaged by cracks or chips. Small dings and chips can be repaired, but significant damage calls for replacement glass.
Automakers strongly recommend using OEM glass for replacements. This ensures a perfect fit and prevents the loss of functionality of ADAS systems such as automatic pre-collision braking or lane departure warning. You can return to our home page.
Aftermarket products are more affordable
Whether you want to save money on your windshield repair or upgrade it to high-tech glass, there are options for every budget. You can choose between OEM or aftermarket products. But which one is right for you?
The first step in choosing the right windshield is knowing what type of car you have. Then you can find the windshield that matches it. It’s important to have the right windshield because it provides structural rigidity and ocular clarity while also supporting ADAS systems like lane departure warning and automatic pre-collision braking.
OEM windshields are made by the same companies that produced your vehicle’s original windshield. They match the color, thickness, and fit of your original windshield. They also have matching logos. However, they are usually more expensive than aftermarket windshields. Additionally, some insurance policies do not cover OEM windshields. For these reasons, aftermarket glass is a good choice. Some manufacturers of both aftermarket and OEM windshields produce OEE (Original Equipment Equivalent) windshields.
They are more durable
While aftermarket products are cheaper, they may not offer the same level of durability as OEM windshields. Moreover, they might not work well with your vehicle’s ADAS technology. While this is not a big deal for older vehicles, newer cars are equipped with features like head-up displays and driver-assistance systems that connect to the windshield.
OEM windshields are fabricated by the same company that provided the original glass on your car. This means that you get an almost identical replacement for the windshield that came on your car when it rolled off the assembly line. They also comply with your car manufacturer’s stringent quality control standards.
On the other hand, aftermarket windshields are fabricated by different companies. While they meet the same production standards as OEM windshields, they do not have the car manufacturer’s logo on them. This is why they are sometimes called ARG windshields. ARG windshields are a good option for drivers who need to replace their windshields but cannot afford to pay for OEM glass.
They are easier to install
A windshield is an important safety component of any vehicle. It protects the driver from debris and can prevent a roof collapse in a collision. It also helps keep the interior of the car intact and provides structural support to the vehicle. A good windshield is also essential for visibility on the road. The best windshields for your car are made by companies that specialize in auto glass, and many offer warranties with their service.
OEM windshields are the preferred choice because they meet the strict quality standards set by your car manufacturer. They are also Department of Transportation-certified, meaning they are backed by a stronger warranty and better quality materials.
OEM windshields are fabricated by the same company that produced the original glass your car came with when it was built. This ensures that the new replacement windshield will be a perfect fit for your vehicle. They are also designed to preserve the functionality of your Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS), including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning.
They are easier to clean
A properly installed replacement windshield is critical for your vehicle’s safety. This is because the windshield provides structural support in a collision, and it helps to keep outdoor elements out of your cabin. Windshields are now more than just glass with specific thicknesses and curvatures; they also contain sensors and cameras for Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS). These ADAS features include auto-dimming headlights, lane-keeping assistance, and forward collision warnings. Replacing the wrong windshield can affect the functionality of these ADAS features and can be a serious safety risk.
After windshield installation, it’s best to let the adhesive cure before washing your car or driving it. The safe drive-away time depends on the type of adhesive used and environmental factors such as humidity levels, outdoor air temperatures, and weather conditions. An immediate wash with water and window cleaner can damage the pinch-weld, reducing the adhesion of the new windshield to your vehicle frame. This could lead to the windshield loosening and falling off after a short period of time. Browse the next article.
