Tips & Advice
OEM vs Aftermarket Windshield Guide | Which Is Better?
Blackout Team· Window Tinting Experts
·5 min read
OEM vs aftermarket windshield comparison. Quality differences, cost, and which replacement option is right for your vehicle.
OEM vs Aftermarket Windshield
Not all windshields are equal. When replacing auto glass, the OEM vs aftermarket choice matters.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | OEM | Aftermarket |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Highest | Varies widely |
| Fit | Perfect | Usually good |
| Price | 40-60% more | Lower cost |
| Warranty | Manufacturer | Installer |
| ADAS calibration | Guaranteed fit | May need adjustment |
What Is OEM Glass?
Original Equipment Manufacturer:
- Same glass factory made
- Identical specifications
- Matches factory exactly
- Best for ADAS vehicles
What Is Aftermarket Glass?
Third-party manufactured:
- Made to fit, not by OEM
- Quality varies by brand
- May have slight differences
- More affordable option
When to Choose OEM
Choose OEM If:
- Vehicle has ADAS (cameras, sensors)
- Luxury or high-end vehicle
- Lease return concerns
- Want exact match
- Insurance covers it
ADAS Vehicles
Modern vehicles with:
- Lane departure warning
- Automatic braking
- Forward collision warning
- Rain-sensing wipers
Require precise glass fit — OEM reduces calibration issues
When Aftermarket Is Fine
Aftermarket OK If:
- Older vehicle (pre-2015)
- No ADAS features
- Budget is priority
- Quality brand used
- Install shop is reputable
Quality Aftermarket Brands
| Brand | Quality Level |
|---|---|
| Pilkington | High |
| Saint-Gobain | High |
| AGC | High |
| PGW | Good |
Cost Comparison
| Vehicle Type | OEM | Aftermarket |
|---|---|---|
| Economy car | $400-600 | $200-350 |
| Sedan | $500-800 | $250-450 |
| SUV | $600-1,000 | $350-600 |
| Luxury | $800-1,500+ | $500-900 |
Our Recommendation
| Vehicle | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 2018+ with ADAS | OEM |
| Luxury vehicles | OEM |
| Older vehicles | Quality aftermarket OK |
| Budget priority | Quality aftermarket |
📞 Call 408-848-8468 — discuss your options
Related Content
- ADAS: ADAS Calibration Guide
- Cost: Windshield Replacement Cost
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