What is Windshield Calibration and Why is it Important?

Before we delve into the finer details, let’s clarify what an OEM windshield implies. OEM, an acronym for Original Equipment Manufacturer, indicates that the windshield was produced by the same company responsible for your vehicle’s original windshield.   Significance of OEM Windshields The value of OEM windshields is immense. When you install an OEM windshield in your vehicle, you’re opting for a glass piece specifically tailored for your car’s brand and model. This is identical to the windshield that was initially installed during the vehicle’s production. Here’s why OEM windshields carry such importance: Perfect Compatibility: OEM windshields are created to align exactly with the original windshield’s specifications, assuring a flawless fit and thereby enhancing the vehicle’s structural solidity. Superior Safety: Windshields are integral to a vehicle’s overall safety, particularly during mishaps. OEM windshields are engineered to fragment in a particular manner to minimize passenger injuries and also facilitate the effective deployment and functioning of passenger-side airbags. High Quality and Longevity: OEM windshields undergo stringent testing and meet high-quality criteria. They generally provide better transparency, fewer distortions, and a higher resistance to impacts and severe weather conditions than their aftermarket equivalents. Maintaining Functionality: If your car is equipped with advanced attributes like rain sensors, heads-up displays, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), an OEM windshield will guarantee these systems work as designed. Aftermarket windshields may not always be compatible with these cutting-edge features. Value Preservation: Employing OEM components, including windshields, can aid in preserving your vehicle’s resale value. Prospective buyers frequently seek vehicles that retain original parts.   While the initial cost of an OEM windshield might be higher compared to its aftermarket counterpart, it can prevent potential issues in the future. It offers assurance that you have the most suitable windshield for your vehicle, providing optimum safety, performance, and comfort.   Recognizing an OEM Replacement Windshield So, how can you determine if your replacement windshield is OEM? If you’ve just replaced your windshield, you might be pondering how to ascertain if your new windshield is an OEM product. Identifying an OEM windshield can be relatively simple, due to several indicative signs. Here are some ways to verify if your replacement windshield is OEM:   Check Manufacturer’s Marks: OEM windshields commonly feature a unique marking or logo typically etched into a corner. These manufacturer’s marks could include the logo, the brand name, or specific codes. Look for these marks first. If they match your vehicle’s brand, it’s likely an OEM windshield.   Inspect the Windshield Fit: A seamless fit is another trait of an OEM windshield. OEM windshields are crafted to the precise specifications of the car model, assuring a perfect fit without gaps or inconsistencies. If your windshield fits your vehicle perfectly and seamlessly, it could be an OEM product.   Inspect the Glass Quality: The glass quality in OEM windshields typically surpasses that of aftermarket products. Examine the windshield from various angles for distortions. If you don’t see any waviness and the glass clarity is superb, it’s likely an OEM windshield.   Consult the Auto Glass Company: If still uncertain, feel free to ask the company that conducted your windshield replacement. A trustworthy company will readily confirm whether they installed an OEM or aftermarket windshield.   Remember, installing an OEM windshield in your vehicle ensures top-notch safety, perfect fit, and superior quality. Hence, it’s always beneficial to confirm its genuineness.   Ultimately, determining whether your replacement windshield is OEM can offer reassurance and secure your safety. Remember, never compromise on quality when it comes to your vehicle. Auto Glass America excels in providing high-quality OEM windshields, ensuring a perfect fit, superior durability, and optimal safety, all supported by professional installation and outstanding customer service.

The windshield of a vehicle is one of the most critical safety features, designed to provide structural support, maintain the integrity of the passenger compartment in the event of an accident, and protect passengers from external elements. So, when a windshield gets a crack, especially a sizable one, such as 12 inches, the question arises: Can it be repaired, or does it need to be replaced?   Understanding Windshield Cracks: There are different types of windshield cracks and chips, and not all of them are created equal. Some common ones include:   Bullseye or partial bullseye: Circular, and often caused by a round object. Star break: Has short radial cracks coming out of the center. Combination break: Contains characteristics of multiple types of breaks.  Crack chip or ding: Single crack, typically the size of a quarter. Long crack: Extends over several inches, usually longer than a dollar bill. A 12-inch crack would typically fall into the "long crack" category.   Can a 12-inch Crack be Repaired? The answer to this question isn’t entirely straightforward and depends on several factors:   Location of the Crack: If the crack impairs the driver’s line of sight, many professionals will recommend replacing the windshield. It’s because repairs, although effective, can sometimes leave minor distortions in the glass, which can impact visibility.   Depth of the Crack: Windshields are made of laminated glass—two layers of glass with a plastic layer sandwiched between them. If the crack has penetrated both layers, a repair might not be feasible.   Edge Cracks: Cracks that reach the edge of the windshield tend to compromise the structural integrity of the glass more significantly than those that are contained within the center. As a result, edge cracks, especially of this size, often necessitate replacement.   Age and Contamination: Over time, a crack can accumulate dirt and other contaminants, which can make it harder to achieve a clean and effective repair. Older, dirtier cracks are less likely to be repairable.   The Evolution of Repair Technology: Windshield repair technology has advanced significantly in recent years. With the advent of better resins and repair techniques, some specialists can repair longer cracks in windshield that would have been deemed irreparable a decade ago. However, even with advanced techniques, a 12-inch crack is pushing the limits of what’s typically considered repairable.   Repair vs. Replacement: There are several advantages to repairing a windshield rather than replacing it:   Cost: Repairing a windshield is often less expensive than replacing it.   Time: Repairs can be completed more quickly than replacements.   Environment: Repairing a windshield is more eco-friendly as it prevents the old windshield from ending up in a landfill.   Repairing a small chip is cheaper than replacing an entire windshield, which might become necessary if damages are ignored. Repairing rather than replacing windshields conserves resources and reduces the volume of discarded windshields, which often end up in landfills. However, safety should always be the primary consideration.  If there is any doubt about the safety of a repair, then windshield replacement is the right option.   Recommendations: If you find yourself with a 12-inch crack in your windshield, here are some things that you must immediately do:   Seek Professional Advice: While you may feel, you can assess it yourself, always consult with a windshield repair specialist to get their recommendation. They can assess the crack and advise you on the best course of action.   Act Quickly: The longer you leave a crack, the more chance there is for dirt and debris to enter, making a successful repair less likely. Also, temperature fluctuations and road conditions can cause the crack to spread.   Check Your Insurance: Many auto insurance policies cover auto glass repairs and replacements. Some even waive deductibles for repairs, given that it’s often cheaper than a full replacement. Though, it may feel daunting, it is actually beneficial for you in the long run.   Safety First: If advised to replace the windshield, do not delay. A compromised windshield can pose a significant risk in the event of an accident, as it might not provide the necessary structural support. Safety should be paramount in all circumstances.   Takeaway While advances in technology have made it possible to repair longer cracks than in the past, a 12-inch crack in a windshield is on the cusp of what’s repairable. Many factors come into play, including the location, depth, age, and nature of the crack. However, the primary concern should always be safety.   When in doubt, especially with such a sizable crack, windshield replacement is often the safest and most recommended option.

Table of Contents Acoustic Glass Windshield Benefits for a Quieter Ride 1. Key Benefits of Acoustic Glass Windshields • Reduces Noise Levels • Enhanced Protection • Improves Fuel Efficiency • Eliminates Break-ins 2. Soundscreen Windshield: A Subcategory of Acoustic Glass 3. Acoustic Windshield Replacement Cost 4. Acoustic Auto Glass: Other Applications and Benefits • Sunroof • Side Windows • Rear Windows 5. Conclusion Have you ever noticed how much road noise disturbs the serenity inside your car? The steady hum from passing trucks or the bustle of city traffic can take away from your driving experience.   Acoustic glass windshields have revolutionized automotive comfort. These revolutionary windshields are intended to keep outside noise where it belongs: outdoors.   So, whether you’re on a road trip or just driving around town, acoustic glass helps create a calmer, more peaceful environment inside your vehicle. It’s similar to giving your automobile a soundproof upgrade, making each journey a little more comfortable.   Key Benefits of Acoustic Glass Windshields Acoustic glass windshields come with various benefits:   Reduces Noise Levels Acoustic windshields effectively reduce noise levels, lowering discomfort for you and your passengers. The smart technology, however, allows external noises like horns and sirens to be audible, keeping you aware of your surroundings. Enhanced Protection If your car hits an object, the windshield might get damaged or even break. However, an acoustic glass windshield successfully shields you from glass fragments in case your windshield breaks. It forms a layer of a thin but sturdy barrier, preventing broken glass from falling within. Improves Fuel Efficiency With acoustic auto glass, you don’t need the traditionally thick windshield glass since the specialist PVB interlayer produces an efficient glass equivalent to a thick noise-blocking windshield. This reduced weight lowers the carbon emission of your car, which improves fuel efficiency. Eliminates Break-insThe acoustic interlayer also helps to deter break-ins by preventing damage to the windshield because it retains the glass as it is. This feature is quite handy as it gives you enough time to contact someone for help and avert theft.   Sound Screen Windshield: A Subcategory of Acoustic Glass Sound screen windshields, a subcategory of acoustic glass, are intended to minimize noise levels inside the car, resulting in a more enjoyable driving experience. These specialty windshields use modern materials and technology to block out external sounds like road noise, wind noise, and engine noise.   The Sound screen windshield increases audio clarity within the car to allow you to not miss out on in-car conversations. Furthermore, the laminate used in these windshields enhances safety by preserving structural integrity in the event of a collision and protecting you from flying glass.   Acoustic Windshield Replacement Cost The acoustic windshield replacement cost depends upon various factors. Let’s study a few of those factors below.   Some workshops may provide extra services, such as calibration of safety systems or removal of old adhesives, which might raise the overall acoustic windshield replacement cost. The cost of labor for auto glass repair and replacement varies depending on the complexity of the installation, the mechanic’s skill level, and your location. The size and shape of the windshield varies amongst cars, which may affect the price of auto glass repair and replacement. The cost of acoustic auto glass varies according to the kind you choose from the many options available.   Acoustic Auto Glass: Other Applications and Benefits Acoustic auto glass is most recognized for its noise-reducing properties in windshields, but its uses and benefits go beyond that. This unique glass technology can be employed in a variety of automobile components to improve comfort, safety, and the overall driving experience.   Sunroof For a more enjoyable driving experience, acoustic glass can help minimize wind and rain noise in cars with panoramic sunroofs. Side Windows Installing acoustic glass in side windows can help minimize road noise and increase interior tranquility, particularly for passengers. Rear Windows Passengers in the backseat can feel more comfortable when there is less noise from external sources and traffic thanks to acoustic glass in the rear windows.   Conclusion Acoustic glass windshields can be compared to noise-canceling headphones for your car. It’s a win-win situation with its added safety measures and the potential for better insulation. Thus, keep acoustic glass windshields in mind the next time you’re considering auto glass repair and replacement—you might discover they’re a game-changer for your car!   If you are in search of windshield repair and replacement services, look no further than Auto Glass America! Our experts use professional tools and the best technology to ensure you have a clear view. Schedule your repair today!