Windshield Replacement Options

Windshield Replacement Options

For many car owners, replacing their windshield is something they try to avoid at all costs. And in some instances, it can be avoided, like when you notice a crack, chip, or even a scratch on your car windshield and take fast action. For this type of damage, repairs are still possible and can be done quickly and inexpensively.  However, some damage requires windshield replacement. Shattered glass or cracks that obscure the vision of the driver mean it’s time for a new windshield.

The good news is that there are auto glass windshield replacement options that can fit your budget and needs. Read on to learn more about the three common types of windshield glass, ranked by price, and their pros and cons. 

The $$$ Option

Dealer glass, like the name suggests, is a replacement option that involves going to your local dealer for your windshield replacement. This has the benefit of providing the same windshield glass as the original manufacturer-installed glass, as well as the stamp of approval from your car manufacturer, which is helpful in terms of preserving warranties. This can be a preferred option for car owners, but the manufacturer logo on the windshield comes with a price. Dealer glass tends to be the most expensive option. 

The $$ Option

Original Equipment Manufactured (OEM) glass can be the happy medium in terms of the cost and value of windshield glass. While it is not an exact replica of your car’s original windshield like with dealer glass, OEM glass manufacturers use the same specifications to produce the windshield as the car manufacturers and can even be the same glass makers as with the Dealer glass in the first place. Dealerships can install OEM windshields, but local glass replacement and repair companies can also install this glass option and can potentially save you more money than going to the dealer. 

The $ Option

While aftermarket glass is the least expensive option, it entails some weighty drawbacks. Aftermarket glass is produced by windshield glass makers who have no affiliation or contracts with car manufacturers. Due to certain laws, these windshield glass makers are prohibited from using the precise specifications for the windshields that car manufacturers and OEM distributors use. As a result, aftermarket glass is not made to fit your car specifically. Though it may save you money in the short term, aftermarket glass can void your car’s warranty or negatively impact its resale value. Additionally, it rarely comes with a guarantee, so you may find yourself in the market for a full-price windshield replacement sooner than you’d like. 

Which to choose?

If you’d like to talk through your options and get an idea of the price and process for windshield replacement for your car, Dan’s Glass can help. With years of experience in auto, commercial, and residential glass, we are happy to share our expertise and get you back on the road.

Tags: , , ,

Comments are closed.