What is the difference between oem and aftermarket windshield

While OEM windshields tend to be safer and align better with the make of your car, they are also more expensive. Not only can they cost nearly double the price of aftermarket windshields, but some insurance companies do not cover them. Aftermarket windshield glass may not meet the same quality standards, but they tend to be more affordable. At Delaware Auto Glass, our extensive experience, same-day services, and safety-certified installers make us one of the best auto glass replacement businesses in the region.

Our projects come with a one-year warranty, and we guarantee customer satisfaction with every job. Some notice a wave-like quality to the glass, which can make driving difficult due to the distraction. In most circumstances, an OEM windshield is going to be the best choice for a new windshield replacement. There are some exceptions to this, however.

First, if cost is an issue, an OEM windshield is generally going to be more expensive to install or replace. Find the perfect auto windshield glass with Advanced Auto Glass. We use high-quality windshield glass that meets all specifications and regulations set forth by the Department of Transportation and top vehicle manufacturers.

Give us a call at ! Aftermarket Windshields These are designed by auto glass companies that do not contract with specific vehicle manufacturers, though some may. Search Search. The thickness and durability should be identical as well. In the United States of America, there are tens of thousands of aftermarket automotive parts sold every day made from both domestically and overseas.

These are products enticingly labeled and packaged to look the same as the original part and claim to be OEM, but the quality is far less than the original , and they are usually made from inferior materials. These are actually similar to OEM windshields except for the branding presentation.

This is a cheaper alternative to OEM replacement since they have almost the same quality and standards as the OEM glass. Ultimately, if you want a factory replacement for your windshield, OEM glass is the way to go. Because you are assured of exact fitment and glass curvature. Considering the critical role of the windshield in cars, the features of OEM windshields translate to safety and protection.

There are insurance policies that include OEM replacement of windshields but they only apply to newer model vehicles, not more than a year or two older than the current model. In fact, due to copyright laws, auto glass companies are prohibited from producing windshields that are identical to the factory-installed versions. Obviously, the size and shape will have to be identical, because otherwise, the glass would not fit into your vehicle.

However, the thickness and durability may be different , and the color of the tint may vary slightly. There were issues and complaints from some consumers about aftermarket windshields showing leaks or producing annoying noise.

While the differences are usually minimal, some more meticulous car owners are not quite happy with what they got from their investments. Apparently, these are isolated cases prevalent among poor-quality windshields.

If you can find better ones, aftermarket automotive parts can actually offer the chance for upgrades on your vehicle. There are also superior glasses that are more durable than the original windshield , further strengthening the safety net on your vehicle in the event of accidents and collisions. Some products provide better resistance against cracks and chips.

But then again, there is always a trade-off, and superior glasses will also require a bigger investment, sometimes higher than the price of OEM windshields.

One of the advantages of aftermarket windshields is they are easily accessible and you can find them practically anywhere around your area and within your locality. There are local shops that offer windshield replacements at affordable prices , allowing you to replace a damaged or broken windshield without breaking the bank. Like most things, the decision may come down to money. Insurance companies may only cover aftermarket glass because it is generally less expensive.

Car owners, of course, are free to pay extra for an OEM windshield. Many aftermarket windshields work out very well for the consumer, but those not willing to take a risk on slightly lower quality will often choose to invest in an OEM windshield. The big debate is still on with regards to choosing between OEM vs aftermarket windshields. This argument has been raging for years and is still being widely discussed today. In fact, there are significant changes in how car owners look at both options.

Aftermarket glasses were enjoying favorable responses in the past but with technology evolving, things are definitely not the same.

Today, the landscape has tremendously changed with OEM windshields being more in demand by modern automakers due to the integration of highly advanced technology connected to the windshield in premium models. Of course, this integrated technology is beyond the coverage of aftermarket parts. For the standard or basic models, however, the playing field is even, with both choices having their own unique pros and cons.

When dealing with these two choices, there are common arguments surrounding the issue, and we shall dive deeper into the most common debates between aftermarket and OEM windshields. When it comes to automotive parts replacement, safety should always come first , especially for critical parts like the windshield.

While OEM windshields can restore the default factory safety measures of the car against the harsh outside environment and flying debris, aftermarket windshields can also do the same , but sometimes either better or worse, depending on the quality of the materials.

The safety standard of some aftermarket manufacturers could be at par or better than the standards of the automaker, but some of them are below the standard. So diligent research is necessary if you prefer to go for the aftermarket option. The windshield market is not a popular industry for direct consumers because it is more of a B2B market rather than B2C.