Windshield Replacement
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 3,391
Likes: 1,040
From: Boise
2024 GMC Canyon Denali..... 2018 Audi SQ5
I’ve had good luck with Safelight but the windshield used is the question. You can require an OEM. A good body shop would be another option but some of those farm out the job.
Member
Joined: Jan 2020
Posts: 203
Likes: 103
From: Tucson, Arizona
2004 CLK320 Cab, 2020 GLE350
I had two damage windshield replacements in the last 12 months. Fortunately, I have zero deductible coverage on glass damage. Although the insurance company showed some reluctance, I insisted on OEM glass. The work was performed by a glass tint and replacement specialist in town. The only problem I had was the second time. The glass comes with an adhesive film protection in the area of where the rear view mirror sits. They failed to remove it, and thus the sensors in front of the mirror failed to perform. I ended taking it to the MB dealer who discovered the problem and charged me $170 to fix it.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 6,963
Likes: 2,178
From: Colorado
'21 AMG53 wDPP & ARC, 19 GLC300 - Former-03 C240,2 ML BlueTecs,20 GLE450 E-ABC,15 Cayenne D,17 Macan
Almost every State requires insurance companies to notify you that you do not have to take non OEM glass. Almost all glass manufacturers have two or three grades of glass, and it's hard to keep track of who has what class for which vehicle this month.
I have saved money at the dealership compared to safelite's prices, on all of the four windshields I have replaced in recent years. My insurance company was surprised and pleased, cuz it's saved them money. This was using OEM glass, and the difference was safelite's cost to install was higher than the dealer's.
It's my insurance company's policy not to use anything but OEM glass for the first 3 years after a new model introduction, because glass manufacturers have to develop glass for the new line.
On the other hand, insurance companies can charge you for the difference if your costs run over their usual glass supplier.
Actually, my dealer sublets to their body shop, and all the required calibrations are done correctly.
The best practice is not to move your car for 24 hours after a new windshield is installed, so the glue can set. I don't think Safelite provides loaners.
The windshield is a structural component, and actually part of the crash structure.
I have saved money at the dealership compared to safelite's prices, on all of the four windshields I have replaced in recent years. My insurance company was surprised and pleased, cuz it's saved them money. This was using OEM glass, and the difference was safelite's cost to install was higher than the dealer's.
It's my insurance company's policy not to use anything but OEM glass for the first 3 years after a new model introduction, because glass manufacturers have to develop glass for the new line.
On the other hand, insurance companies can charge you for the difference if your costs run over their usual glass supplier.
Actually, my dealer sublets to their body shop, and all the required calibrations are done correctly.
The best practice is not to move your car for 24 hours after a new windshield is installed, so the glue can set. I don't think Safelite provides loaners.
The windshield is a structural component, and actually part of the crash structure.
Last edited by mikapen; Jun 26, 2022 at 05:04 PM.
