Is a windshield a windshield? I have gotten a wide range of quotes to replace mine. They run from 130 up to 400 for the install and i was suprised at the wide range of prices. So it got me wondering if all windshields are equal or do some companies make a higher grade than others. Anybody have experience or info on this?

 

I had mine replaced by a general windshield repair place. They were willing to get the OEM Mazda glass (insurance was paying) but the lead time would be weeks. I think the aftermarket glass was basically the same except for the hue of the tint at the top edge. I went with the aftermarket glass and it's all good. I have no idea what brand of aftermarket glass I have. If you're interested I can try to find a label.

 

I got a used FEED windshield from my hook-up overseas. It's blingy-fresh and I only paid 1500 bucks + shipping.

 

OEM is typically thought to be higher quality. I'm sure there's some debate but traditionally OEM is manufactured by companies that have specific glass contracts with auto companies and thus the windshield must meet certain standards and quality control.

Aftermarket glasses can exceed those of OEM but typically they do not.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0vhggqoBsc

 

WTF?!? Seriously? (In response to Natey's post)

 

Ramy might be able to get you one too!!

 

I thought PPG makes the glass for almost everyone? I got to change mine and want a regular windshield with no tint.

 

Whats the difference between that and normal OEM or aftermarket replacement?

Just curious.

 

You could get a nice Percy's Speedglass one. Should drop a pound or fifty. Otherwise just go with the cheapest, a windshield is a windshield. If you drive enough, you're going to have to fix chip or replace it again someday anyways.

 

I was just kiddin', guys.

 

normally, I would agree with this statement had my wife's Ford Focus not just received one of the most horrible windshields I've ever seen. I had the installer come back out and replace it with an OEM. It made me feel like I was wearing someone elses glasses. It was all wobbly in it's reflection.

 

OEM or aftermarket, quality of installation, with the right materials is just as important. It's not just that you don't want it to leak, but it's a structural component of sorts. If you have a trusted collision shop see who they recommend to use.

 

I would not just "go with the cheapest." Aftermarket windshields can vary a lot in quality. I've seen some really shitty ones. Once I saw one on a Camry that was not only very wavy when you looked through it, but did not have anywhere near the correct contour; if you looked at the car from the side, the windshield made a perfectly straight line from the header to the cowl, instead of a gentle arc. It was horrible. So make sure whatever you get is from a reputable source.

 

I am going OEM for piece of mind... mine is pretty crappy after 100k miles. Just another thing on the "to buy" list...

 

Typically PGW(formally PPG) and Pilkington LOF are the ones still making the FD windshields, (FW 715). Aside from OEM Mazda still having whats left over. Those are the brands to stick with.

 

PPG makes really good glass. I've used them on several vehicle applications without any problems.

 

It may have been corrected, but I think I remember reading something about the OEM windshield (at least on the '93 RX7) being a real weak spot? Something about it would pit way too easily? I'll see if I can find something on it. As some have posted above, I have found varying quality with replacement windshields. . .get a good one!

 

I have a PGW windshield on my 1994 toyota pickup...

It has 2 big waves in it, but I didn't mind, cost me 60.00...

I'd be interested to see the quality if that speedy glass taut was mentioned above.

Always wondered about lightweight glass (their complete kit for a
corvette almost shaves off 100 pounds)

 

Yeah most aftermarket windshields will have some waves. Even OEM glass will have waves, its the cooling process when the glass comes out the furnace that is tricky. Of course all glass is made in batches

 

if anything they went with a thinner glass to save some weight.