When it comes to replacing a damaged windshield, many car owners are faced with a choice between aftermarket windshields and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) windshields. OEM windshields are manufactured by the same company that produced the original windshield that came with the car, while aftermarket windshields are made by third-party companies.
One of the primary concerns for car owners is whether aftermarket windshields are as good as OEM windshields. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two types of windshields and compare their quality, performance, and safety.
Quality of Aftermarket Windshields
Aftermarket windshields are typically cheaper than OEM windshields, which is why many car owners opt for them. However, the lower price tag may raise questions about the quality of these windshields.
Aftermarket windshields are manufactured by various third-party companies that may not have the same quality control standards as OEM manufacturers. This means that there is a higher chance of getting a windshield that is defective or does not fit properly.
However, not all aftermarket windshields are low-quality. Some third-party companies use high-quality materials and manufacturing processes to produce windshields that are just as good as OEM windshields. To ensure that you get a high-quality aftermarket windshield, it’s important to research the manufacturer and read reviews from other car owners who have purchased their windshields.
Performance of Aftermarket Windshields
One of the primary concerns for car owners is whether aftermarket windshields perform as well as OEM windshields. Performance can refer to various factors, including the windshield’s ability to withstand impacts, resist shattering, and provide clear visibility.
Windshield Impact Resistance
The ability of a windshield to withstand impacts is crucial for safety. In the event of a collision, the windshield needs to stay intact to prevent the occupants from being ejected from the vehicle.
OEM windshields are manufactured to meet specific safety standards and are tested rigorously to ensure that they can withstand impacts. Aftermarket windshields may not be subject to the same testing standards, which means that they may not perform as well in a collision.
However, some aftermarket windshields are made using the same materials and manufacturing processes as OEM windshields, which means that they can provide the same level of impact resistance. To ensure that an aftermarket windshield meets safety standards, it’s important to check if it has been certified by organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC).
Windshield Shatter Resistance
Another important performance factor is the windshield’s ability to resist shattering. In the event of an impact, the windshield needs to remain intact to prevent the occupants from being injured by flying glass shards.
OEM windshields are made using high-quality tempered or laminated glass that is designed to resist shattering. Aftermarket windshields may not be made using the same materials or manufacturing processes, which means that they may be more prone to shattering.
However, some aftermarket windshields are made using tempered or laminated glass that is just as good as OEM glass. To ensure that an aftermarket windshield provides adequate shatter resistance, it’s important to research the manufacturer and check if their windshields have been certified by organizations such as the NHTSA or the AGSC.
Windshield Visibility
Finally, the performance of a windshield can also be evaluated based on its ability to provide clear visibility. A windshield that is hazy, distorted, or obstructed can make it difficult for the driver to see the road ahead, which can increase the risk of a collision.
OEM windshields are manufactured using high-quality glass and are designed to provide clear visibility. Aftermarket windshields may not provide the same level of visibility if they are made using lower-quality glass or if they do not fit properly.
However, many aftermarket windshields provide excellent visibility. Some aftermarket manufacturers use the same high-quality glass and manufacturing processes as OEM manufacturers, while others use advanced technologies to improve visibility, such as hydrophobic coatings that repel water and dirt.
Safety of Aftermarket Windshields
The safety of aftermarket windshields is a concern for many car owners. A windshield that fails to provide adequate protection in the event of a collision can have serious consequences for the occupants of the vehicle.
As previously mentioned, OEM windshields are manufactured to meet specific safety standards and are subject to rigorous testing. Aftermarket windshields may not be subject to the same testing standards, which means that there is a higher risk of getting a windshield that does not meet safety standards.
However, it’s important to note that not all aftermarket windshields are unsafe. Many third-party manufacturers are dedicated to producing high-quality windshields that meet or exceed safety standards. To ensure that an aftermarket windshield is safe, it’s important to research the manufacturer and check if their windshields have been certified by organizations such as the NHTSA or the AGSC.
Cost of Aftermarket Windshields
One of the primary advantages of aftermarket windshields is their lower cost compared to OEM windshields. Aftermarket windshields can be up to 50% cheaper than OEM windshields, which makes them an attractive option for car owners on a budget.
However, it’s important to note that the cost of an aftermarket windshield can vary depending on the manufacturer and the quality of the windshield. Some high-quality aftermarket windshields can be more expensive than low-quality OEM windshields, so it’s important to compare prices and quality before making a decision.
Warranty of Aftermarket Windshields
Another important factor to consider when choosing between aftermarket and OEM windshields is the warranty. OEM windshields usually come with a warranty from the manufacturer, which can provide peace of mind for the car owner.
Aftermarket windshields may or may not come with a warranty from the manufacturer. However, many third-party manufacturers offer their own warranties for their windshields, which can provide similar protection to an OEM warranty.
It’s important to read the warranty carefully and understand what it covers before purchasing an aftermarket windshield. Some warranties may only cover defects in materials or workmanship, while others may cover damage from impacts or accidents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the quality, performance, safety, cost, and warranty of aftermarket windshields can vary depending on the manufacturer and the quality of the windshield. While OEM windshields are manufactured to meet specific safety standards and are subject to rigorous testing, many aftermarket windshields can provide similar performance and safety if they are made using high-quality materials and manufacturing processes.
When choosing between aftermarket and OEM windshields, it’s important to consider factors such as cost, quality, and safety. To ensure that you get a high-quality aftermarket windshield that meets safety standards, it’s important to research the manufacturer and read reviews from other car owners who have purchased their windshields.
Ultimately, the decision between aftermarket and OEM windshields depends on the individual car owner’s priorities and budget. By understanding the differences between these two types of windshields, car owners can make an informed decision that meets their needs and ensures their safety on the road.
