It finally happened- you got stuck behind a semi-truck on the interstate and it flung a pebble in your face and your once-perfect windshield is now broken! Everything is okay, though, because you have full glass coverage with your insurance and you schedule an appointment to get your windshield replaced with the local auto glass shop in your area. But, during your conversation with the glass company, they mention that they will be installing an aftermarket windshield in your new vehicle. What does that mean? Is it not going to be the same quality as the previous one? What about my vehicle’s logo at the bottom corner of my window; will that still be there? Is there a significant price difference between the two? Here is a short explanation of the difference between OEM and aftermarket (EEM) auto glass, and what to consider when deciding between the two.
First, questions regarding quality may arise. Does aftermarket glass have the same quality as OEM? The short answer to the question is yes. Aftermarket auto glass meets or exceeds the minimum safety standards set by the department of transportation is terms of weight, thickness, clarity, etc. Aftermarket glass also must comply with evolving technologies being seen in newer cars, therefore; your vehicle can and must be able to be recalibrated with aftermarket glass after an install.
Another question auto glass customers generally have regarding the differences between aftermarket and OEM glass has to do with the overall aesthetics of the windshield. Truth be told, glass is glass. The aesthetic difference between most aftermarket and OEM windshields is negligible at best. There is one major difference that tends to get in people’s heads more than you would think: will aftermarket glass be branded with my automaker’s emblem like the original windshield? No, it most likely will not. Unfortunately, a Mercedes logo will probably not be seen on a new aftermarket piece of glass and the cute little Jeep climbing the hill will be missing as well. The importance of these things varies from person to person, but the decision making usually happens after glass price is considered.
OEM glass, much like other OEM parts on any vehicle, is considerably more expensive than aftermarket glass. For that reason, it is important to consider the difference between the two, especially if you’re paying cash for your replacement. If you are using insurance, it is still important to consider the price difference- OEM parts must go through a more extensive approval process by your insurance because they are more expensive. Sometimes, insurance will only pay a portion of the OEM list price and leave the customer with a deductible to make up the difference. If you’re hoping to pay no extra money out of pocket, it may be wise to opt in for an aftermarket windshield.