Your Windshield Replacement Options

If you are forced to replace your windshield because it is broken, or if the cracks have gotten too long and wide to be legal, you have probably thought of doing the replacement yourself, in order to save money. If this thought has crossed your mind and you have either asked someone about how to do it or you have looked on the Internet to get some Do-It-Yourself advice, you have already figured out that everyone is saying not to attempt windshield replacement yourself. The moral of this story is: if you have to ask for advice, you should not even attempt this project. That being the case, there are still ways to save a bit of money while having someone who knows what he or she is doing put the new auto glass in for you.

There are several choices available when looking for a new windshield. First, skip the junkyard choice; once a windshield has been pulled out of its original car or truck, it is never going to fit another one, flawlessly. The shape will be off, even if just the tiniest bit and the seal will never again fit perfectly. It would be nice to rescue a windshield out of a junkyard, but you will always have problems with it.

The second choice is to get a brand new windshield from the auto dealer. This is, by far, your best choice: you will have an identical, sure-fit windshield and it will even have the car manufacturer’s decal on it. If you have the auto dealer’s mechanics or body people install the windshield, it will probably come with a great warranty. Unfortunately, if this happens to be a case of paying for this repair out of your own pocket, be prepared to sob your heart out while you are emptying your wallet or running your credit card up. This is the most expensive option you have.

You can still purchase an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) windshield that has a warranty, but having an independent company install it, will save you money. This may be your second best choice because you know the windshield will be high quality and live up to the manufacturer’s expectations.

Finally, you can generally find someone who can supply and install an aftermarket windshield and this will save you a large sum of money. Of course, try to avoid any possibility of bumping it in any way or having stones bounce off of it; it probably will not hold up to any stress or rough handling, but it sure is the cheapest alternative. Replacing a windshield is not something to try to cut corners on; it is simply too important to the integrity of the vehicle and the safety of your body parts. Play it safe: spend a few extra dollars and get a good windshield replacement with a great guarantee and have it installed by a reliable and reputable company. You will rest easier, knowing you did.

 

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