2022 Ford Bronco
By Alfredo Calva
VIN #: 1FMEE5BP0NLB47886
1 Replacing the windshield in this newer-generation Bronco is different from previous year models. It used to require a gasket set, then a glue-in with chromes. Now, it’s an exposed-glass installation with windshield-mounted Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features. Begin with a pre-inspection and a pre-scan of the vehicle.
2 Use a tack puller to ply the camera cover off. I do this step first to confirm that the new windshield has the same bracket and I have the correct windshield. You could transfer the camera to the new windshield now to make sure it fits on the new bracket correctly. If the new windshield is equipped with heating elements in the camera’s viewing area, test it for continuity.
3 Remove the rear-view mirror by unscrewing the Torx screw.
4 Ply the camera from the top while holding it firmly, then slide the bottom up.
5 Unclip the harness from the bracket and unplug the camera.
6 Now it’s time to work on the outside of the vehicle. Remove the Torx screws on both ends of the cowling. Remove the windshield wipers, using a wiper puller if needed.
7 Use your preferred tool to separate the cowling from the side mirror. Be gentle so you don’t crease the plastic.
8 Be gentle when plying the cowling from the windshield. It’s attached using retainer moulding and can rip easily.
9 Continue to the other side.
10 Ply the cowling off the side mirror on the other side.
11 Open the hood and lift the cowling to unplug the windshield-wiper fluid fitting.
12 Squeeze the side of the fitting and the side of the ring that locks it in place at the same time.
13 Pull the fitting off with your other hand.
14 Since this is an exposed-glass installation, I highly recommend cutting the windshield out using a fiber line or a wire cut-out tool. Follow your adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations to prep the vehicle body and the glass.
15 Check for proper decking and spacing after setting the glass. Reinstall the cowling and don’t forget to plug in the windshield-wiper fluid fitting when reinstalling the windshield wipers. Put the wipers back in the original parking area. Most windshields have markings showing where to reposition the windshield wipers. If needed, clean the camera’s viewing area as you reinstall it. Put all the parts back in reverse order. To get this vehicle back on the road safely, you must do a dynamic recalibration followed by a post-scan and a test drive. This is a fairly simple installation overall. It is technical, but the installation can be easy with the proper tools.
Alfredo Calva is the president of Alfredo’s Auto Glass in Corona, Calif.
alfredosautoglass@hotmail.com.
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