Author: Kurt

Selecting the right windshield for the car is crucial for safety and the car’s overall condition. Do you ever wonder just how much your windshield contributes to the structural integrity of your car? An OEM windshield follows the standard of your car’s glass.   Thus, it can easily fit the car and withstand normal forces. This also makes installation easier because there is less likelihood of experiencing leakages or other problems.   Original equipment manufacturer windshields also handle Integrated ADAS for proper calibration and best performance. Auto Glass America offers OEM-grade windshields to ensure clients’ auto safety, compatibility with modern features such as ADAS, and quality.   What is OEM Windshield Replacement? OEM windshield replacement is the process of replacing a windshield with the one manufactured by the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or simply the same glass that came with the car originally. It is a good-quality glass with all the length and width measurements, shape, and specifications of your car, so it is perfectly fitting and working efficiently. While dealing with aftermarket glass, one may have some differences in the thickness or type of the material used. OEM windshields are made to meet the standard of quality and safety, allowing car owners to relax.   Benefits of Choosing OEM Windshield Replacement   An OEM windshield brings benefits beyond the glass, enhancing safety, fit, and tech compatibility with every pass. Here’s why choosing OEM is the clear choice for your vehicle:   1. Precise Fit and Superior Quality OEM windscreens are made to blend effectively with your car’s design, unlike other varieties, which are generalized. This ensures that problems such as leakage, noisy winds, and adjustment challenges result in more problems, especially in areas of climate variation. A snug, ideal seal also leads to minimal chances of condensation, hence preserving your car’s interior and frame.   2. Enhanced Safety for You and Your Passengers Factory-fitted windscreens are safe from set regulatory standards and offer adequate sturdy shells in case of an accident. Being an important aspect of your car’s safety features, an OEM windshield is specially made to withstand sudden shocks and support the cabin’s structure, enhancing your safety and that of your passengers.   3. Full Compatibility with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) ADAS features such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking systems are critically used in modern vehicles for safety during operations. Original equipment-manufactured windshields are designed to bear the weight needed for these systems to work effectively.   Contrary to other third-party glasses, which can result in mishaps, OEM windshields ensure that the ADAS features accomplish their purpose safely, making you safer on the road.   When Should You opt for OEM Windshield Replacement? When it comes to windshield replacement, using OEM glass makes all the difference. Here’s why choosing OEM windshields is the smart choice for your vehicle:   Severe Cracks or Chips: If a large crack or chip runs across the windshield and interferes with your vision, it becomes dangerous and needs replacement. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): OEM glass must ensure that any vehicle with features such as lane departure notification or adaptive cruise control works effectively. Calibration Needs: OEM windscreen enables proper creation, allowing for fine-tuning of safety systems to ensure your and your passengers’ safety on the road.   Auto Glass America’s OEM Auto Glass Replacement Services Auto Glass America focuses on providing OEM windshield replacement and repair services, referring its customers. Here’s what sets Auto Glass America apart in the industry:   Certified Technicians: Auto Glass America’s technicians are factory-trained and certified to guarantee the safety and quality of each OEM replacement installed. Mobile Services for Convenience: Auto Glass America provides mobile windshield replacement services at convenient and desirable locations so that customers can avoid the inconvenience of coming to Auto Glass America. Comprehensive Services for All Auto Glass Needs: In addition to OEM windshield replacement, Auto Glass America offers everything a car owner requires in auto glass solutions, such as side window repair and ADAS calibration.   Auto Glass America has services in Arizona, Colorado, and South Carolina to make it convenient for its many customers and to ensure that it provides the finest quality service.   OEM Windshield Replacement vs. Aftermarket: Which Option Fits Your Needs? Regarding replacing your windshield, both OEM and third-party glasses have advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a closer look to help you make the right choice:   1. Fit and Quality Original equipment-manufactured windshields are specially designed to fit your car’s model perfectly. This eliminates common problems such as leakage around the windshield, noises from the windscreen, and inadequate sealing.   2. Durability and Longevity OEM glass is actually made from the same material as your original windshield and is much more resistant to everyday wear, impact, and the elements. Often, replacing the vehicle’s glass with an aftermarket type is less expensive, but these types of glasses will wear out much faster, and the extra costs for repairs or their replacement are possible.   3. ADAS Compatibility All modern vehicles have features such as lane departure notification or adaptive cruise control built into them, known as ADAS. Accurate calibration requires OEM glass only. Original equipment manufacturer windshields are, in fact, equipped for the right positioning of sensors and cameras, which is decisive for ADAS functionality.   Conclusion Opting for an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) windshield ensures you’re getting a high-quality replacement that’s designed specifically for your vehicle. With an OEM windshield, you can trust that it will fit perfectly and meet the same safety standards as the original.   OEM windshield replacement is the best choice for car owners who want to improve their cars’ safety, quality, and longevity. Are you ready to give your car the quality it deserves?   Auto Glass America is here to provide more information about our product, OEM windshield replacement, and help you make your car safe on the road again.

Driving with a cracked windshield presents significant safety risks and can also undermine your vehicle’s structural soundness. What might initially appear as a negligible chip or crack can rapidly escalate, covering the entire windshield and necessitating costly repairs or replacements. This raises an important question: how can one prevent a cracked windshield from deteriorating further? This article explores various practical methods and solutions, such as professional windshield repair and DIY crack mitigation, to help preserve both the aesthetic and safety of your vehicle.   How Does a Windshield Get Cracked? Windshields serve a crucial role in automotive safety, standing up against significant pressure. Yet, their durability does not render them impervious to damage. The sources of such damage can vary wildly, encompassing everything from constant bombardment by road debris to temperature fluctuations. Even minor collisions or forceful shutting of car doors can cause vibrations capable of breaking an already damaged windshield. The emergence of a tiny chip or crack leaves the once sturdy windshield vulnerable to further damage, making immediate action imperative. Timely windshield chip repair becomes vital to prevent the spread of potentially hazardous cracks.   How to Stop Your Windshield from Cracking You can implement several measures to stop the spread of a windshield crack:   Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Excessive heat or cold can cause the glass to expand or shrink, thereby exacerbating the crack. Try to find shade when parking on hot days and refrain from using your car’s defroster on high during colder periods.   Steer Clear of Rough Roads: Vibrations and shocks from uneven roads can cause a crack to extend. Whenever possible, opt for smoother roads until the crack is fixed.   Use a Windshield Repair Kit: If you can’t immediately visit an auto glass repair shop, a DIY windshield repair kit could serve as a temporary solution. These kits contain a specialized resin that fills the crack, thereby preventing further spreading. While useful, remember that these kits do not offer a permanent fix.   Get Professional Help: The most effective strategy to halt a windshield crack is to promptly obtain professional windshield repair. A professional can assess the damage and advise on the best course of action, be it repair or complete windshield replacement.   It’s important to bear in mind that a cracked windshield is more than an eyesore—it poses a genuine safety risk. It undermines the structural integrity of your vehicle and impedes your vision, necessitating immediate attention.   Tips to Take Care of Your Windshield To avoid initial damage, park in shaded areas to reduce exposure to temperature fluctuations. Refrain from forcefully shutting car doors to avoid inducing potent vibrations. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles on the road, especially trucks, to avoid flying debris. Regularly clean your windshield with high-quality glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to prevent tiny, accumulative scratches. You could also consider applying a windshield protector to enhance its resistance to potential damage.   Solutions for Cracked Windshields Minor chips and cracks can often be repaired, but more significant or severe damage usually calls for windshield replacement. Here are two primary solutions:   Windshield Repair: Generally effective for small chips and cracks. The procedure involves cleaning the affected area and filling it with a special resin that seals the crack. Once cured and polished, the resin restores the windshield’s structural integrity and clarity.   Windshield Replacement: More serious cracks necessitate a complete windshield replacement. This involves removing the damaged windshield, cleaning, and preparing the window frame, and fitting a new windshield. Always select a reputable service for your car window replacement to guarantee quality work and maintain your vehicle’s safety.   Temporary fixes such as applying superglue or clear nail polish to the crack, using a windshield repair kit, or taping the crack can buy some time until professional help can be sought. While they may appear to be minor nuisances, windshield cracks can lead to serious safety hazards if neglected. Swift intervention, whether in the form of a simple repair or a complete replacement, can help you avoid further complications down the road. Remember, investing in your vehicle’s safety is always worthwhile.

The condition of your vehicle’s windshield is paramount to your safety and visibility while driving. Therefore, when circumstances call for a windshield replacement due to a chip, crack, or extensive damage, it’s vital to confirm that the task has been executed correctly. After the replacement of your car’s windshield, there are a variety of aspects to inspect to verify the proper completion of the installation process and the functionality of the new windshield. This guide will delve into the critical checks you need to perform following a windshield replacement.   Your Comprehensive Guide: Key Things to Check After a Windshield Replacement Here is a list of vital checks you should perform after replacing your windshield to ensure a successful installation.   Examine the Seal Start by scrutinizing the perimeter of your newly installed windshield. The sealant should be uniformly applied around the edges without any gaps or bubbles. These inconsistencies could lead to issues like water leaks in rainy conditions, wind noise at high speeds, or even the windshield dislodging in a crash. If you notice anything unusual, get in touch with the installation company immediately.   Look for Scratches or Damages A fresh windshield should be completely devoid of flaws. Take your time to meticulously examine it in good light. Be on the lookout for any scratches, chips, or cracks that might have occurred during transport or installation. These rare but possible defects can jeopardize the structural integrity of your windshield, becoming a safety threat.   Test Your Wipers Next, evaluate how the wipers operate on your new windshield. Turn them on to check their performance. They should move smoothly across the windshield without creating any streaks or noise. If the wipers are juddering or not making proper contact with the glass, it may suggest an incorrect windshield fit.   Listen for Wind Noise After installation, drive your vehicle and listen for unusual wind noises. A whistling sound could indicate a faulty windshield seal. Not only is this irritating, but it also represents a safety risk since the windshield might not be secured properly.   Inspect the Molding Ensure the molding surrounding the windshield aligns perfectly and is straight. It should sit flush with the body of your vehicle without any parts sticking out. Any misalignment can lead to potential problems like water leaks or wind noise.   Check Rear View Mirror and Sensors If your vehicle comes with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as a lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking, it’s vital to verify if the sensors positioned around the windshield function as they should. They typically need recalibration during a windshield replacement. Similarly, the rearview mirror should be firmly attached and positioned correctly.   Check Glass Quality Take a careful look at the quality of the glass. Your new windshield should be perfectly clear with no distortions when viewed through. Waviness or unevenness can interfere with your vision, especially at high speeds or under specific light conditions.   Inspect the Car Interior Post-replacement, conduct a thorough inspection of your car’s interior. Look for any leftover glass shards, particularly on the seats, floor mats, dashboard, and vents. Although professionals typically clean up after the replacement, it’s prudent to double-check to prevent potential injuries.   Test the Defrosting Function The defrosting feature is vital for your safety during colder climates. To confirm its functionality, turn on the defrost feature and observe if the windshield clears up evenly and swiftly. If the defrost lines aren’t working as expected, it could suggest an issue with the installation or a fault in the windshield.   Review the Auto-dimming Feature If your car has an auto-dimming rearview mirror, make sure to check this after a windshield replacement. This feature reduces the glare from trailing headlights at night. If the mirror isn’t dimming correctly, it could mean the sensor wasn’t adequately reconnected during the windshield replacement.   In conclusion, even though a windshield replacement might seem straightforward, it requires meticulous attention to detail. Don’t hastily leave post-replacement. Devote time to performing these checks before you start driving. By doing so, you ensure your vehicle’s safety, ultimately safeguarding you, your passengers, and other drivers. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to contact Auto Glass America for our unrivaled service.

Undergoing windshield replacement necessitates mindful post-care procedures. At Auto Glass America, while we ensure that our professional auto glass technicians meticulously replace your damaged windshield, it’s important for you to understand the actions to avoid post-replacement. Here’s a compilation of ten critical points you need to remember.   Post-Windshield Replacement: Ten Key Things to Avoid Once your windshield is replaced, it’s important to steer clear of certain actions to maintain the newly installed windshield’s integrity and longevity. Following these guidelines can help you ensure a long-lasting, firmly sealed windshield.   Avoid Immediate Driving: The adhesive used in windshield replacement needs time to dry for a robust seal. It’s important to adhere to the ‘safe drive away time’ specified by your technician, which can vary from an hour to several hours depending on the adhesive used.   Steer Clear of Car Washes: Refrain from car washes, particularly automated ones, for at least two days post-replacement. High-pressure water can compromise the new windshield seal and molding.   Maintain Car Interior Cleanliness: Dust and dirt accumulated on the dashboard can interfere with the adhesive seal. Hence, it’s crucial to maintain the cleanliness of your car’s interior, especially the dashboard.   Retention Tape Must Stay: The retention tape, though not aesthetically pleasing, aids in keeping the windshield steady during the initial hours after installation. It’s advisable to leave it on for at least a day unless instructed otherwise.   Don’t Slam Doors: Avoid slamming your car doors for the initial few days after installation. The force exerted can pressure the windshield and disrupt the new seal.   Don’t Remove Windshield Wipers: Unless necessary, avoid removing the wipers for the initial two days. This could potentially damage the newly installed windshield.   Avoid Gravel Roads: If possible, abstain from driving on gravel roads or similar areas where debris could strike your windshield. Impacts from rocks or other hard objects could damage the new glass.   Refrain from Using the Rear Defrost: For the first couple of days post-replacement, avoid using the rear defrost. A sudden temperature change could interfere with the adhesive’s curing process.   Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes: For the first few days after windshield replacement, avoid exposure to direct sunlight and refrain from using your car’s air conditioning or heater at extreme temperatures. This could affect the curing process of the windshield adhesive.   Say No to Ammonia-based Glass Cleaners: Ammonia can harm your windshield glass’s tint and the surrounding parts. Hence, it’s advisable to use ammonia-free cleaners for your new windshield. Following these guidelines, you can ensure the successful replacement of your windshield, leading to clear, unimpeded road views for miles to come.   Why are Precautions Important After Windshield Replacement? Adhering to post-replacement precautions optimizes your new windshield’s ability to form a safe, durable, and secure seal with your vehicle, ensuring on-road safety. Several reasons underline the importance of these precautions:   Ensuring Proper Adhesive Curing: The adhesive, vital for securing the windshield, needs time to cure and achieve full strength. Activities like immediate driving post-installation or slamming car doors can interrupt this process, potentially leading to leaks or a loose windshield.   Protecting the New Seal: Certain activities like car washes or premature removal of the retention tape can compromise the new seal before it’s fully set. This can cause gaps, leading to wind noise, water leakage, or a loose windshield.   Preventing Damage: The newly installed windshield is susceptible to damage from sudden temperature changes, pressure, or debris impact, particularly in the first few day’s post-replacement.   Preserving Warranty: Many replacement companies offer a warranty on their work. Not adhering to the post-care instructions can, however, void this warranty. Equipped with this knowledge, you’re well-prepared to ensure your new windshield’s longevity. For any service-related inquiries, feel free to contact Auto Glass America.

Original Equipment (OE) and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) are terms frequently used in the automotive industry. They can often be confusing when discussing windshields or other auto parts. In this blog, we will clarify what OEM and OE represent, and their differences.   What are OEM Windshields? Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) windshields are replacement car glass products produced by the same company that initially crafted the original windshield for a particular vehicle. OEM windshields are the pinnacle of auto glass replacements because they precisely match the car’s make, model, and year’s specifications, including dimensions, contour, and form, providing an ideal fit and superior performance. These windshields also satisfy the safety standards set by the vehicle’s manufacturer. They feature the manufacturer’s logo and often include extra functionalities such as built-in rain sensors, solar coating, or an antenna. If you were to go to your car’s dealership for a windshield replacement, these are the exact substitutes you would receive.   What are OE Windshields? Original Equipment (OE) windshields are manufactured by third-party companies under contracts with car manufacturers. These companies, while not the original manufacturers, have access to the vehicle’s design specifics and produce windshields that align with the car’s original design. Though OE windshields are designed to closely match the original specifications, they might not be perfectly identical in every aspect. These minor differences in OE windshields may not be perceptible to the naked eye, but they can affect the windshield’s fit, finish, and overall durability. They meet safety standards but do not bear the car manufacturer’s logo.   Differences Between OEM and OE Windshields: Here are some distinctions between OEM and OE windshields to consider when deciding which to choose:   Origin and Branding The main difference between OEM and OE windshields is their source. OEM windshields are created by the original windshield manufacturer of the car and feature the automaker’s logo. In contrast, OE windshields are crafted by third-party companies and do not display the automaker’s branding.   Quality and Accuracy While both windshield types meet safety standards, OEM windshields are acclaimed for their accuracy and quality. They guarantee the same fit and finish as the original windshield, promising an equivalent installation experience and performance. Conversely, OE windshields might not offer the same precision, as they are not manufactured by the original producer.   Price As expected, OEM windshields are typically pricier than OE windshields due to the branding, precision, and the extra features they incorporate. OE windshields, being third-party products, are usually less expensive, making them a cost-effective alternative for budget-conscious individuals.   Compatibility with Advanced Features Current cars often come equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that require accurate calibration with the windshield. OEM windshields are likely to offer better compatibility with these systems due to their precise match with the original windshield’s specifications. OE windshields can also function well, but their compatibility can vary depending on how precisely the OE windshield replicates the original design.   Insurance Coverage Insurance policies often cover windshield replacements. However, the coverage extent may depend on the chosen windshield type. Some insurance companies may fully cover an OEM windshield’s cost, while others may only cover an OE windshield’s cost.   Safety Standards and Regulations As mentioned before, both OEM and OE windshields meet safety standards. However, OEM windshields undergo the same stringent quality control and testing processes as the original windshields. They need to satisfy rigorous specifications set by the car’s original manufacturer. OE windshields must also comply with federal safety standards, but they might not be subjected to the same thorough testing procedures as their OEM counterparts. This could potentially lead to minor variances in quality and safety performance.   Installation Experience Regarding the installation experience, OEM windshields often provide a flawless fit, reducing the chance of wind noise, leaks, or installation-related problems. This is because OEM windshields are crafted to the exact dimensions and specifications of the original windshield. While OE windshields strive to closely match the original windshield’s specifications, they may not always provide an exact fit. This could lead to minor installation challenges and potential fit and finish issues, impacting the windshield’s aesthetic appeal and performance.   Aftermarket Add-Ons and Technology Compatibility: Modern windshields are equipped with sophisticated technologies such as head-up displays, lane departure warnings, and automatic wipers. Given their adherence to original specifications, OEM windshields are more likely to integrate seamlessly with these features. On the other hand, OE windshields may not always be compatible with these complex technologies. This can lead to suboptimal performance of these features, or in some instances, they might not function at all.   Durability and Longevity: OEM windshields often provide better durability and longevity since they are manufactured with the same materials and to the same specifications as the original windshields. This ensures optimal performance over an extended period. OE windshields, although built to mimic the original windshield, might not offer the same durability level. This could be due to the use of different materials or manufacturing processes that diverge from the original.   Value and Resale Considerations: If you’re considering selling your vehicle in the future, having an OEM windshield could potentially enhance its value. Many potential buyers and car enthusiasts value vehicles maintained with OEM parts, associating this with higher quality and better vehicle performance. Choosing between an OEM or OE windshield depends on your personal preference, budget, and vehicle needs. It’s essential to consider all these factors, including the potential impact on your vehicle’s performance and insurance considerations, before deciding. Our expert technicians at Auto Glass America will consider your needs and make suitable recommendations.

The straightforward answer is yes. A cracked windshield is likely to worsen in winter, primarily due to thermal stress caused by temperature changes. When the glass gets cold, it contracts. However, when you use your vehicle’s defrosting system, it heats up rapidly, causing it to expand. This continuous cycle of contraction and expansion can lead to the spread of the crack. Furthermore, the crack can expand when snow or ice seeps into it and freezes, as freezing causes expansion. Let’s delve deeper into these factors. The deterioration of a cracked windshield in winter can be attributed to several factors, particularly in areas where the weather turns cold and harsh. Here are the primary causes:   Thermal Stress: The contraction of glass in cold conditions and its expansion when it warms up, a phenomenon known as thermal stress, can enlarge a crack in a windshield. This is particularly troublesome in winter, when there are larger fluctuations in temperature between day and night.   Defrosting: If you use your vehicle’s defrosting system on a cold windshield, the quick temperature change can cause a small crack to rapidly spread across the glass.   Snow and Ice: When snow or ice, forms of precipitation, find their way into a crack and then freeze, they expand. This expansion increases the pressure on the glass and can enlarge the crack.   Road Salt: In regions where road salt is utilized to tackle icy conditions, it can infiltrate the crack and further damage the windshield. Therefore, if your windshield has a crack, it is crucial to get it repaired or replaced immediately to avoid the risk of it worsening, especially during the winter months. A cracked windshield is more than just an aesthetic problem; it can pose a significant safety risk, as it can obstruct the driver’s vision and undermine the structural stability of the vehicle.   Is it possible to repair windshields in cold weather? Fortunately, the answer is yes. Although cold weather presents certain challenges, windshields can indeed be repaired. However, to effectively handle these challenges, it is typically best to seek assistance from a professional service provider. Professional windshield repair services have the tools and expertise to handle repairs under various weather conditions, including cold weather. Here’s how they can assist:   Expertise and Experience: Professionals possess the skills and knowledge to properly assess the crack or chip’s severity and to decide the most suitable course of action. They are adept at adjusting their repair techniques for cold weather, ensuring the resin sticks and cures properly despite the lower temperatures.   Proper Tools and Materials: Professional repair services have specialized tools and top-quality materials that are designed to work effectively across a wide range of temperatures. They often use a more sophisticated resin that can cure in colder conditions where DIY kits may fail.   Temperature Control: Repair services often have mobile units equipped with heaters to ensure the glass is at the optimal temperature for the repair. Alternatively, they may have heated service centers where the vehicle can be taken for repair.   Safety: A professionally conducted repair not only improves the windshield’s appearance but also restores its structural integrity. Professionals ensure that the repair is carried out in a way that prioritizes safety.   Guarantees: Many professional windshield repair services provide guarantees or warranties on their work, giving you confidence that the repair will last.   Keep in mind that while minor chips and cracks can often be repaired, more severe damage may necessitate a full windshield replacement, regardless of the weather. Consult with Auto Glass America to make the best decision based on your specific situation.