DubVBenz

Just purchased a W211 Bluetec. Found it online, flew down to Atlanta, test drove, looked it over and drove back to Virginia. I did not notice while test driving that the driver side windshield had been scratched pretty badly on the outside. It looks like whoever tried to remove the window sticker used something that really scratched up the glass. I didn't notice it with sunlight out until I put my sunglasses on during the trip home (which added some definition), and it became apparent. Once it turns dark and headlights start shining through, they defuse really badly. I don't think I'll be able to get the dealership to fix it (just a used car dealer, not a certified mb dealer, and 650 miles away.. ), so I'm hoping someone has had some luck with an abrasive polish of some sort that may fix it. There is one spot in the scratched area that is completely clean, and it looks as though a chemical treatment may have been applied there to try and fix it. Given the scratch patterns, it would have been impossible to leave this spot empty on purpose considering the the scratch paths.. Anyone have any suggestions on what I could try instead of replacing the entire windshield?


Just realized I missed the 'D' in windshield in the topic.. please don't chastise, I flew from DC at 5AM and drove back to NoVa from atlanta all in one day!

Barry45RPM

There's no such thing as glass polish. Its done with a white slurry, on a polishing pad (as in making glass eyeglass lenses) and the glass is flooded with water to cool it. If the scratches are too annoying, replacement is the answer.

Just be sure they are scratches, and not adhesive residue. Glue residue can be completely removed with VM&P Naptha, or Bug & Tar Remover, or Ronsonol Lighter Fluid. (All the same stuff) Do not let it drip onto the dash pad. Wet a paper towel with it & rub gently.

DubVBenz

they're more of a fine scuff. Almost as if a brillow pad was used on the windshield. Not really annoying until the night when headlights start to diffuse.

Replacing the windshield is an option, however I'd rather not go that route since it'll be out of pocket, or raise my rates, and it'll be extremely expensive since they have to get a windshield that's integrated with the light and rain sensors...

mikekuriger

it can be repaired at a glass shop, or DIY if you prefer.

DubVBenz

any recommendations of a chain or should i just find a local shop?

SPNJHockey

Info or link?

AmazinglySmooth

I have used Safelite before for other makes. Call for a quote. They will come out and fix it where you are (home or work).

$220 was quoted for my LX470, and I paid $300 for my Odyssey.

mikekuriger

google search. - it's out there! lol

Miguk_Saram

+1 for Safelite.

Had my windshield replaced a few months ago at Safelite in Gaithersburg, MD. I took it to their shop. Paid under US$400, including tax.

The sales guy tried to sell me on replacing the trim pieces associated with the windshield, explaining that the trim might get scratched during removal, but I forwent that and saved some $$$ (the trim was fine).

http://www.safelite.com

SPNJHockey

Cuz, did they use OEM glass, or their own product?

Miguk_Saram

I believe it was an OEM replacement. The glass is from the same manufacturer and has the same text on the lower left side (I forget what it says).