Learn About the Three Different Types of Windshield Glasses Available
If you have a crack in your vehicle’s windshield, you might be wondering are all the windshields the same? The question arises because if you don’t repair or replace the windshield, the crack or chip could become worse. The answer is there are differences in types of windshield glass. There are some differences in Dealer Glass, Aftermarket Glass and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Glass. As we’ve written about before, those are the three main types of windshield glass.
Every driver knows that windshields are extremely important to the overall safety of the vehicle. The auto industry makes windshields to keep the driver and passengers safe from inclement weather, debris, dirt, dust, and more. This month, 3 D Glass LLC is writing a blog about the differences in types or windshield glass. Are all windshields he same? No, they aren’t.
Types of Glass for Windshields Include:
- Aftermarket Glass
- Dealer Glass
- Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Glass
OEM and Dealer Glass Have Very Small Differences
Original Equipment Manufacturer Glass and Dealer Glass have small differences that only glass experts might now. The auto manufacturer has stamped the make of the vehicle on the Dealer Glass. One key difference vehicle owners should be aware of is Dealer Glass is more expensive that OEM Glass. Some vehicle dealerships only provide aftermarket glass. Don’t assume your dealership uses Dealer Glass or Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Glass.
Vehicle Makers Test the OEM Glass Precisely for Your Windshield
Whether you have a Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, or other brand, the vehicle’s manufacturer provides the Original Equipment Manufacturer Glass. The manufacturer tests it precisely for your vehicle’s performance and safety in mind. One of the advantages to this windshield glass is it will stand up to harsh weather conditions. The glass defends against snow, ice, hail, rain, extreme heat, and other conditions.
When you to replace your current windshield, it might be best for you to choose Original Equipment Manufacturer Glass. The advantage with OEM glass is that it will be the exact fit and glass curvature. So, there will be no guessing as to whether the windshield will fit into your vehicle.
Auto Manufacturers Don’t Usually Make Windshield Glass
You might be wondering if auto manufacturers make the glass that is on your vehicle. According to CarWindshields.Info, vehicle manufacturers don’t usually make their own windshields:
“This work is subcontracted to companies that specialize in auto glass. The auto glass company manufactures windshields and windows according to the car maker’s strict specifications. Then, the glass is shipped to the central facility where the cars are actually assembled and installed in new cars as they are built. Since this work is subcontracted, the auto manufacturer continually accepts bids from different glassmakers. Sometimes, they will switch glass manufacturers when a lower bid is received, resulting in identical vehicles having glass that is technically manufactured by different companies.”
Source: OEM vs Aftermarket Windshield – Which One is Better? (carwindshields.info)
Many Owners Can Upgrade to Aftermarket Glass
As for Aftermarket Glass, this obviously doesn’t come from your vehicle’s manufacturer. If you purchase high quality Aftermarket Glass, it can become more of an upgrade for your current vehicle. Some Aftermarket Glass is more durable than the original windshield. When it’s more durable, it gives the occupants of the vehicle more safety if it becomes involved in an accident.
Rest Assured that Aftermarket Glass Doesn’t Compromise Quality
You can save money on your windshield purchase, which is ideal during these tough economic times, by buying Aftermarket Glass. That’s the key difference between the other two types of windshield glass. But the low price does not compromise on quality. The glass’s thickness is the same as the original windshield in your vehicle. At 3 D glass LLC, we often install Aftermarket Glass for our customers. Maybe the only downside of Aftermarket Glass is that you won’t know the origin of the glass.
You Can Do More Research on the Differences in Windshields
When you ask whether all windshields are the same, you could still be confused after your research. If you’re still unsure of what windshield to go with, learn some keys to help you make the right decision. How much can you spend on a windshield replacement? If money isn’t a consideration, then Original Manufacturer Equipment Glass or Dealer Glass could be your best choices. If you don’t have a big budget, or don’t want to spend time researching the differences in glass, then choose Aftermarket Glass.
Contact the Friendly Staff at 3 D Auto Glass LLC if You Have Questions
Vehicle owners should make sure of what is best for their car, truck, minivan, SUV, or van. Make sure that the glass fits perfectly, just like the original one. If you have doubts about any of the types of glass for windshield, call at 3 D Glass LLC.
For more information on the differences in types of windshield glass, give 3 D Glass LLC a call at (888) 753-3628. You can also follow us on Facebook. We’ll be happy to talk to you if you ask this question: Are all windshields the same?
