Windshield

Tree branch got my windshield thanks to the east coast suffering from delayed onset winter. Wondering what people would recommend OEM vs something like safelite?

 

Stay away from Safelite. Call one of your local glass companies and ask for an OEM equivalent. Your local dealer will tell you who does their glass work. Also see if your insurance policy will cover the cost.

 

x2 on what Tundra234 said.

I would call the dealer and find who does their work. Safelite will use "approved glass" and although it is recommended/approved by your ins company, some folks have had issues in my experience.

 

Avoid Safelite! They have garbage service with garbage product and will offer subpar service.

With 1st Gens proper install is pretty crucial knowing how many folks we've had pop up with fusebox and ECU damage from bad windshield seals.

Search your area for a local mom-and-pop glass shop with 100+ reviews and at least 4.5 stars on Google. The general 1st Gen consensus is, while other manufacturers (Pilkington, etc.) would be prefered, the Fuyao product for our 1st gens has been generally pretty solid. But the big thing is, you'll need/want all new trim and seals, a good glass shop can tell you what to order.

For the water intrusion issues mentioned on the fusebox and ECU, you need to get this fixed sooner than later. It doesn't take many rain events on a cracked windshield to send water down the A-pillar and into the fusebox. Same with the ECU on passgr side. It'll drip to the wire looms and run down into each respective box from there.

Don't dillydally.

EDIT: OEM for our trucks, if I recall from prior threads, was rebranded Pilkington. But they don't make windshields for our truck anymore as I recall. If you search the 1st gen subforum for "pilkington" you'll find more windshield advice.

 

Thanks for all the advice guys. Interesting addition to this: when I called my local shop, they stated that companies such as a Safelite, their own, and other competitors, all use the same supplies for their glass. The woman on the phone also mentioned something about dealerships. I am unsure if she said that dealerships would also use the same suppliers or not. The local shop has been in business for decades and also quoted me the cheapest price by a good bit. Should I call it off if I can’t find Pilkingtom? I’ve put the truck in my garage for the rest of the bad weather.

 

I believe I read on here that Pilkington only makes glass for '07+ now.