The Essential Guide to Auto Glass Parts: Ensuring Safety and Quality

The Role of Your Windshield in Vehicle Safety

Did you know that your car's windshield is a vital part of a highly engineered crash management system? Proper installation of OEM windshields and adhesives by certified professionals is essential for your safety. OEM parts are produced using original equipment-style tooling and adhere to manufacturer specifications for safety and quality.

Key Safety Functions of Your Windshield

1. Roof Support: In rollover accidents, the windshield can contribute up to 60% of the roof's structural integrity.
2. Airbag Deployment: During a front-end collision, the windshield acts as a backboard for the passenger-side airbag, absorbing the force of deployment at speeds up to 200 mph.

Why Choose OEM Auto Glass Parts?

Stringent Standards

OEM auto glass parts adhere to more rigorous standards than those set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). While DOT standards require 80% windshield retention in frontal barrier crash tests, OEM standards demand 100% retention. This 20% difference can be crucial in ensuring your safety.

Quality and Fit

OEM parts are designed to match the original specifications of your vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit. Aftermarket parts often fail to meet these standards, leading to issues like leakage, wind noise, and optical distortion.

Warranty Protection

Using OEM parts ensures that your vehicle's manufacturer warranties remain intact. Non-OEM parts can void these warranties, leaving you unprotected.

Trusted Auto Glass Manufacturers

When choosing an auto glass shop, it's essential to know which manufacturers they work with. Some reputable OEM auto glass manufacturers include:

• Pittsburgh Plate Glass (PPG)
• Carlite
• Ford
• Safeguard/Mopar
• Pilkington
• Asahi
• AP Tech
• Triplex
• Sekurit
• Sicursiv
• Scanex
• Crinamex
• Guardian

Questions to Ask Your Auto Glass Shop

Before selecting an auto glass repair shop, consider asking the following questions:

1. Do you use OEM auto glass parts, adhesives, and glass?
2. Are your technicians certified?
3. Do you have a written adhesive usage policy, and what is the safe drive-away time?
4. What is your response time for repairs?
5. Is ample time allowed for a proper and safe installation?
6. Do you follow the manufacturer's auto glass specifications?
7. Do you offer a transferable lifetime warranty on parts and workmanship?

Insurance Considerations

Check with your insurance company to see if they cover shops that use only OEM parts. Some insurance companies may steer you towards facilities that use cheaper, non-OEM parts for cost-saving reasons. Ensure you choose a shop that prioritizes quality and safety.

Additional Resources

For more information on auto glass scams and how to avoid them, visit Suntec Auto Glass.

Interesting Stats

• Windshield Replacement Frequency: According to the Auto Glass Safety Council, approximately 15 million windshields are replaced annually in the United States.
• Cost of Windshield Replacement: The average cost of replacing a windshield ranges from $200 to $400, but it can go up to $1,500 for luxury vehicles (Source: Safelite).

By understanding the importance of OEM auto glass parts and knowing what to look for in a repair shop, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable. Always prioritize quality and safety over cost when it comes to auto glass replacement.