Windshield Replacement

[UberF30er]

Hello ladies and gents,

Dealership is planning on replacing the windshield on the car I am considering with a non-BMW, but apparently OEM spec 3rd party windshield. Does any anyone have any experience with non-BMW windshields?

1. Does it void the factory warranty (I am being told “no” by the selling dealership)?
2. Do all the sensors work OK post windshield replacement?
3. Should I stay away from a car with a replaced non-BMW windshield?
4. Would it be better to have the dealership fix the star in the windshield rather than having it replaced with non-BMW glass?

Many questions and appreciate your help.

[Qsilver7]

If no one chimes in…simply do a google search using a phrase like “BMW replacement windshield”. This is a much discussed topic on EVERY BMW forum. The same applies across the spectrum.

[Raimo5]

I have had windshield replaced with aftermarket glass on few of my previous BMW's. Never had an issue and glass lastes just as well as OEM one.

1. Why would it? It's just glass.
2. KAFAS camera needs realignment after glass replacement.
3. No
4. Brand new glass is always better than fixed one and is clear of other minor defects. Just go with reputable manufacturer.

[UberF30er]

Originally Posted by Raimo5

I have had windshield replaced with aftermarket glass on few of my previous BMW's. Never had an issue and glass lastes just as well as OEM one.

1. Why would it? It's just glass.
2. KAFAS camera needs realignment after glass replacement.
3. No
4. Brand new glass is always better than fixed one and is clear of other minor defects. Just go with reputable manufacturer.

Thanks much. Appreciate the response.

[krautmeister]

I will say this… recently I did have it replaced and it was $1400 direct through Safelite. The windshield is THIN…. It flexes when they install it.

I went with direct OEM because I just wanted everything perfect on the car.

[Raimo5]

Originally Posted by krautmeister

I will say this… recently I did have it replaced and it was $1400 direct through Safelite. The windshield is THIN…. It flexes when they install it.

I went with direct OEM because I just wanted everything perfect on the car.

OEM windshield flexes too, they all do. Whole body of car is flexing and if windshield is unable to accommodate for that then it would just break. Not that I'm against OEM as it's always the safest choice.

Just make sure you get the right one. There are variations depending if you have HUD, KAFAS, climate comfort windscreen.

[Derived]

Just had mine replaced at the dealer, frankly don't want to risk potential issues with 3rd party parts. I just don't trust that they're quite as good as OEM.

[The7th]

I had non-bmw windshield on my previous 740. It was made in Europe but all ok. No issues at all! There are few companies that make windscreens for BMW.


1. Does it void the factory warranty (I am being told “no” by the selling dealership)? It does if thickness is not the same as BMW OEM.
2. Do all the sensors work OK post windshield replacement? Yes No issues!
3. Should I stay away from a car with a replaced non-BMW windshield? Check the specs and if it was installed per BMW Scope of Works.
4. Would it be better to have the dealership fix the star in the windshield rather than having it replaced with non-BMW glass? No! Any Autoglass will do that.


My answers are for the UK market but surely BMW Warranties are the same all around and some may apply to the US market as well. Check with your car insurer if the policy allows you to go aftermarket.