Windshield Replacement and Calibration
Pretty bold statement that lacks any kind of reference for credibility.
To answer your question you are exactly right. The cost difference is called branding.
Enlighten me on what you know differently. My info came from the manufacturer and a dot approved glass shop. What about yours?
No, I don’t have any DOT experience but I’m smart enough to know that windshields have to be DOT approved in this country regardless of who’s providing the windshield.
At no point and time did I question you for using Safelite or whoever you purchased your replacement windshield from so I don’t have to explain to you any of the questions you mentioned. I stand by what I said......do it once, do it right and go with OEM. It’s my opinion and the OP‘s choice.
I guess if your insurance company was going to pay for your windshield, and they gave you an option of OEM and a cheaper version, you‘d say put in the cheaper one right?
Why don’t you tell me and other people who suggested the OEM windshield is the same as your cheaper replacement because the only info you presented was when you stated that you spoke with someone who told you there is no difference except for the logo.
Have a good evening.
No, I don’t have any DOT experience but I’m smart enough to know that windshields have to be DOT approved in this country regardless of who’s providing the windshield.
At no point and time did I question you for using Safelite or whoever you purchased your replacement windshield from so I don’t have to explain to you any of the questions you mentioned. I stand by what I said......do it once, do it right and go with OEM. It’s my opinion and the OP‘s choice.
I guess if your insurance company was going to pay for your windshield, and they gave you an option of OEM and a cheaper version, you‘d say put in the cheaper one right?
Why don’t you tell me and other people who suggested the OEM windshield is the same as your cheaper replacement because the only info you presented was when you stated that you spoke with someone who told you there is no difference except for the logo.
Have a good evening.
The only thing I'm "hell bent" on to use your terminology is providing factual data. If I recall you suggested that the cheaper windshield wasn't DOT approved yet now you are saying they all have to be DOT approved.
I simply asked you to confirm your statement, you refused then deflected. You aren't just answering to me but to everyone who reads this forum. They deserve to know the truth.
Now I'm glad I wasted that time because others will read this later and hopefully make an informed decision that is in their best interests.
To be clear I never said anyone shouldn't use an OEM windshield. I couldn't care less what they put on their trucks. I simply said there was zero difference in the actual glass save for the Ford Logo and that is a fact. People are welcome to spend their money any way they see fit. My issue is with guys like you who spread misinformation disguised as fact. I'm just here to help educate those that are interested in knowing facts because companies take money every day from people who don't know any better.
I referenced prior in this or another thread that one of my good friends owns the glass shop. That information came from him and i was in his office when he called the manufacturer Carlex. The brand name is Carlite. I specifically asked about soundproof layers, camera issues/recalibration, etc. He sent over spec sheets where we could compare side by side. So I ordered the windshield without the Ford logo for $150 less. The Ford Logo is $400 from same place. At the rate these windshields break I figured I would use the $150 saved on the next one since I replaced the OEM windshield at 1800 miles. At 4000 miles the second one cracked from a stone impact and has run almost top to bottom just beyond where the passenger windshield wiper clears so it is out of my direct line of sight. It's ugly but until I have damage in my line of sight I will wait. Pointless to throw money away which is the only reason I chose to share my direct knowledge of facts.
After the windshield was ordered I called 3 local Ford dealers and asked if they replaced windshields and all 3 recommended my friends shop and each was quick to point out they don't fool with windshields which was a perfect segue to ask about recalibration. All 3 said they were unaware of any recalibration requirements and that they had referred many of them out for repair and had never had any come back with issues. I then asked my friend and he said there was no calibration required as the cameras sit behind the glass. That is when I asked if I could help or at minimum watch the old glass being taken out and new glass put on. Not only did I get to watch but I helped so I have direct hands on experience with the replacement.
The shop, a small place that has been doing work for the farm for years, told me to have them order the windshield with sound-guard. Other then that I could have gotten it with or without the logo. Since my insurance was covering it, I got it with the logo.
They also asked if the truck had any driver assist options, it doesn’t. They told me if it did no recalibration would be needed unless the camera is moved. I guess the SafeLight dealer, the closest one is about 200 miles away, was stating it was needed. Some local folks had paid for something that was not needed. But when you are that far from home, and need a replacement, you got to go with what is available.
These guys did a great job and also told me the factory windshield was not sealed completely at the bottom. If you were to go to this place you would think it was a cheesy, fly-by-night operation. But being in a small farming community, everybody knows everybody. And this place is the best in the valley.
Folks can spend their money anyway they want. Me, before I make a decision, I want all the facts. Sometimes that can can be hard to come by. Forums like this help provide that information.
This is why it’s important that we post the most accurate info possible.
The only thing I'm "hell bent" on to use your terminology is providing factual data. If I recall you suggested that the cheaper windshield wasn't DOT approved yet now you are saying they all have to be DOT approved.
I simply asked you to confirm your statement, you refused then deflected. You aren't just answering to me but to everyone who reads this forum. They deserve to know the truth.
Now I'm glad I wasted that time because others will read this later and hopefully make an informed decision that is in their best interests.
To be clear I never said anyone shouldn't use an OEM windshield. I couldn't care less what they put on their trucks. I simply said there was zero difference in the actual glass save for the Ford Logo and that is a fact. People are welcome to spend their money any way they see fit. My issue is with guys like you who spread misinformation disguised as fact. I'm just here to help educate those that are interested in knowing facts because companies take money every day from people who don't know any better.
I referenced prior in this or another thread that one of my good friends owns the glass shop. That information came from him and i was in his office when he called the manufacturer Carlex. The brand name is Carlite. I specifically asked about soundproof layers, camera issues/recalibration, etc. He sent over spec sheets where we could compare side by side. So I ordered the windshield without the Ford logo for $150 less. The Ford Logo is $400 from same place. At the rate these windshields break I figured I would use the $150 saved on the next one since I replaced the OEM windshield at 1800 miles. At 4000 miles the second one cracked from a stone impact and has run almost top to bottom just beyond where the passenger windshield wiper clears so it is out of my direct line of sight. It's ugly but until I have damage in my line of sight I will wait. Pointless to throw money away which is the only reason I chose to share my direct knowledge of facts.
After the windshield was ordered I called 3 local Ford dealers and asked if they replaced windshields and all 3 recommended my friends shop and each was quick to point out they don't fool with windshields which was a perfect segue to ask about recalibration. All 3 said they were unaware of any recalibration requirements and that they had referred many of them out for repair and had never had any come back with issues. I then asked my friend and he said there was no calibration required as the cameras sit behind the glass. That is when I asked if I could help or at minimum watch the old glass being taken out and new glass put on. Not only did I get to watch but I helped so I have direct hands on experience with the replacement.
Have a good day.
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
I can choose Comp with no glass or Comp with full glass.
The difference in price for me was like $4 a month.
No brainer for me, here in AZ.






