What’s the Difference?
When it comes to auto glass replacement, the longstanding debate about original equipment (OE) versus aftermarket glass has real implications for safety, performance and consumer trust. As vehicle technology becomes more sophisticated, the differences between these two categories of glass grow.
So what, exactly, separates OE from aftermarket glass, and why should it matter to technicians, shop owners, insurers, and, most importantly, vehicle owners?
Defining OE vs. Aftermarket
OE glass is manufactured to the automaker’s specifications. The same company that supplies the factory-installed glass makes the OE replacement part, so they include the automaker’s original branding and logos.
Aftermarket glass is typically unaffiliated with the automaker. Though many aftermarket glass manufacturers use similar production processes to make glass, the windshields won’t conform to the OE specs, and this glass does not carry the car manufacturer’s branding.
ADAS Compatibility and Calibration
The rise of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) has further complicated the OE vs. aftermarket discussion. Some auto glass technicians report that using OE glass makes recalibrating windshield-mounted cameras easier because they know the windshield is the same as the one they removed.
“An OE windshield is specifically designed to integrate with a vehicle’s camera system and ADAS functions,” says Tim Siterlet, director of sales, automotive glass solutions wholesale, for OE replacement glass provider Carlex. “It fits that vehicle opening perfectly and is equipped with the original camera bracket.”
Siterlet says aftermarket windshields aren’t as precise. They have to be reverse-engineered by studying an OE part. Windshields produced outside the OE specs may lead to calibration failure or camera system fault.
Of course, technicians still have to recalibrate after an installation, no matter what kind of glass they use.
Cost Considerations
Aftermarket windshields can cost significantly less than their OE counterparts, making them attractive to insurers or budget-conscious consumers. Aftermarket glass works well in older vehicles with less-advanced safety systems and saves money.
But cheaper isn’t always better, especially if recalibration is involved. Using OE glass can help offer peace of mind, ensure compliance with manufacturer recommendations and reduce liability for shops and insurers.
Siterlet says just because there’s a lower number on an aftermarket part’s price tag doesn’t mean it’s less expensive overall. If technicians have to spend extra time recalibrating a windshield-mounted camera on an aftermarket part or have to replace the part entirely, it costs shops time and money.
Manufacturer Regulations
Many automakers tell customers to only go to manufacturer-certified shops that install OE parts when they need a replacement.
Rivian, for example, makes generally ADAS-equipped electric vehicles and is well-known for its strict replacement rules. Its 2023 position statement says technicians should only use Rivian products to “ensure proper fitment, visual clarity, acoustic dampening, UV protection, and integrate with Driver+, [which is] Rivian’s ADAS suite.”
Likewise, according to Ford’s 2022 position statement, the company also doesn’t approve aftermarket parts.
“The quality, performance, and safety of aftermarket replacement windshields and side glass may not meet [Ford’s] specifications and may result in safety features not functioning properly and reduced customer satisfaction in their vehicle’s performance,” the statement reads.
Subaru’s position statement also requires OE replacement glass on all vehicles equipped with its EyeSight ADAS systems.
Customers often choose OE glass to preserve their warranty, thanks to Rivian, Ford and Subaru’s policies, plus policies by similar automakers.
What’s the Takeaway?
The choice between OE and aftermarket glass isn’t always black and white. In many instances, aftermarket options may be appropriate or even preferred. But with vehicle technology becoming increasingly complex and higher consumer awareness, it’s critical to educate customers, perform proper ADAS recalibrations and maintain transparency about windshield options.
“I’m not saying all aftermarket windshields are bad,” Siterlet says. “I’m just pointing out that only the OE windshield offers the benefit of returning the vehicle to the original engineered and design intent of the vehicle manufacturer.”
Whether you use OE or aftermarket replacement glass, what matters most is that it meets or exceeds safety standards, performs reliably and maintains the integrity of the vehicle. Making informed decisions and performing responsible installations elevates professionalism in the auto glass industry.
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