Does anyone know if I have to use 'Lexus' branded windshield which is basically a Pilkington when I turn in the vehicle after the lease is up? I'm assuming Lexus is very strict and must be replaced by their dealer?

We had a road debris.

 

No you do not have to replace it with Lexus brand. If you are going to lease another car with same dealer you might not have to replace it at all talk to dealer.

 

If you have glass insurance get the correct one installed. Some dealers are extremely picky when they inspect a lease turn-in. Some seemingly couldn't care less. Since you probably don't know which way yours will go, I'd give it some thought.

 

It doesn't matter how picky some dealers are no one is suppose to return car in same condition as leased. If car was leased with Micheline tires it doesn't have to be returned with Micheline tires, car can be returned with any tires because any tires will comply with standard regulations.
Insurance company will not always replace windshield with branded product. As long as windshield is complaint with current standards no picky dealer will make you replace it. Even dealers do not always replace it with branded product.

 

After thinking it over, I agree with you.

 

I don't lease so I may not be fully educated on this but the analogy doesn't really make sense since a Michelin tire is not a Lexus proprietary part of the car whereas the windshield might be.

 

The lease documentation does not require you to use any specific brand of glass for a windshield replacement.

 

Are you suppose to use Lexus branded motor oil/filter? Or anything from the market?

 

Nope that's governed by Moss Magnuson. What about the in dash audio unit - if that is damaged, you think you can return the car with an aftermarket radio?

 

Alright guys, I will double check. Even SafeLite wants $1245 for the windshield which is incredibly expensive. The 8 inch crack is repaired now and seems to hold up but i know I can turn it in at lease end in 28 months from now.

 

You answered your own question.

But you can replace it by non branded product from ebay that looks and performs identical to oem.

 

Is this a regular windshield or do you have HUD?

 

Makes sense.

 

Yes, I do have the HUD and rain sensor. That could be a problem as safelite also asks me if I have that feature.

 

My understanding is that the HUD windshield has a special coating and is more expensive than the standard.