Windshield Replacement - Need Feedback
07-16-16, 08:37 AM
#16
Lexus Fanatic
Let me put it to you this way, I would probably leave the OEM windshield cracked before I put a $280 aftermarket windshield in my car.
That's how negative my experiences have been l
Maybe a 10+ year old one, but not a 2 year old $60k Lexus.
That's how negative my experiences have been l
Maybe a 10+ year old one, but not a 2 year old $60k Lexus.
07-16-16, 10:41 AM
#17
The installer makes ***ALL*** the difference.
Glass is basically glass, if the aftermarket is LOF or Pilkington or another quality brand you're fine, I HIGHLY doubt that Toyota makes their own glass.
Glass is basically glass, if the aftermarket is LOF or Pilkington or another quality brand you're fine, I HIGHLY doubt that Toyota makes their own glass.
07-16-16, 11:45 AM
#18
Lexus Fanatic
Lexus OEM glass is made by Aashi if it's made in Japan, Pilkington if it's made in the US or Canada. But, aftermarket runs from the same manufacturer are different than OEM runs. Lexus has very tight tolerances and rejects a lot of glass. Those rejected windshields become "replacement glass". No Lexus stamp, no glass for me.
In terms of resale. I wouldn't buy a used Lexus with an aftermarket windshield, I definitely wouldn't pay the same price as for one with OEM glass.
07-16-16, 01:04 PM
#19
Driver School Candidate
I've had bad experience w/ Safelite and great experience w/ Lexus. As has been said, it all comes down to the installer. If a crappy job is done, Safelite is way less likely to take responsibility than Lexus. Of course, Lexus is quite a bit more $$, so it's not a cut and dry answer.
07-16-16, 01:16 PM
#20
Lexus Champion
08-10-16, 07:56 AM
#21
Just replaced my windshield. Glass Doc did the work and I asked for Pilkington reluctantly. OEM would have cost an extra $504, but I was given enough reassurance it would be ok.....here is my assessment. Glass Doc did a pretty good job, however, we had a horrible time getting the sensor assembly next to the rear view mirror to lock on to the windshield bracket....the glass is as clear as OEM, the top edge of the windshield is not as beveled or smooth as stock and the vin number is not lined up with the viewing area in the lower corner. I'm not happy, but it is better than a rock chip in my view.
08-10-16, 08:13 AM
#22
Lexus Fanatic
I'd have spent the $504. This will bug you every time you look at it.
08-10-16, 10:20 AM
#26
If you ever intend to sell your car to a dealership, Carmax, or trade it in, I have noticed the 1st thing the used car appraiser looks at is the windshield to be sure it has OEM glass in it. If it doesn't, your car will be worth hundreds less. You can pay now or pay later.
08-10-16, 11:13 AM
#27
as long as the windshield is not made in china, you are good to go.
never had an issue with any of my aftermarket replacements. In fact, my $250 replacement was a plinkton? or whatever the name was.
I think the biggest difference is the install itself and the sealant. it comes down to the installer.. they could make it 95% job or a 80% job. I got the 80% job once.. didn't like it at all.
P.S. I've had it done on cars with rain-sensing wipers and homelink (auto-dimming), but not HUD or BSM. I thought BSM was related to the side view mirror, not rear view, but I might be wrong.
never had an issue with any of my aftermarket replacements. In fact, my $250 replacement was a plinkton? or whatever the name was.
I think the biggest difference is the install itself and the sealant. it comes down to the installer.. they could make it 95% job or a 80% job. I got the 80% job once.. didn't like it at all.
P.S. I've had it done on cars with rain-sensing wipers and homelink (auto-dimming), but not HUD or BSM. I thought BSM was related to the side view mirror, not rear view, but I might be wrong.
09-01-16, 08:12 AM
#28
1 month follow-up. USAA finally came through....covering up the vin was not acceptable. I went to another shop that got OEM glass approved + used OEM gaskets and seals....huge difference. Everything fits perfect, no problem with sensor locking in. I will never accept an aftermarket job again & after what I just went through I never want to drive on the interstate. Just want to keep it safe in the garage for now. 
Just replaced my windshield. Glass Doc did the work and I asked for Pilkington reluctantly. OEM would have cost an extra $504, but I was given enough reassurance it would be ok.....here is my assessment. Glass Doc did a pretty good job, however, we had a horrible time getting the sensor assembly next to the rear view mirror to lock on to the windshield bracket....the glass is as clear as OEM, the top edge of the windshield is not as beveled or smooth as stock and the vin number is not lined up with the viewing area in the lower corner. I'm not happy, but it is better than a rock chip in my view.
09-01-16, 12:07 PM
#29
Lexus Fanatic
Good...glad it worked out.
Yep, all it takes is one bad aftermarket experience and we have another convert.
Yep, all it takes is one bad aftermarket experience and we have another convert.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
heyitzalex
CL of Southern California
5
09-09-09 11:25 AM