Anyone replaced a windshield?

[ldye]

Wasn't 200 miles out of Denver last Thur and rock got me. Hit right in my line of sight. Held my breath the next 1300 miles every time I hit a bump. Had chip repair done today and it looks just as bad as before. I don't know if I want to go ahead and replace or just try and not let it drive me nuts. Can Audi dealer do this or will I have to rely on a glass shop? I really don't want anyone but an Audi tech touching the car.

[KfabR8]

You should probably get that done via Audi (who will probably call an outside vendor). The thing I'd make sure of is that it's an OEM windshield and not aftermarket.

How do you like your car thus far? Good trip home?

[ldye]

Like it lots. May post a little review/compare in the next few days. I feel like Audi cut some corners in some areas on the R8 vs their other models.

You should probably get that done via Audi (who will probably call an outside vendor). The thing I'd make sure of is that it's an OEM windshield and not aftermarket.

How do you like your car thus far? Good trip home?

[thezman]

I have had it replaced and would definitely have it done by Audi dealer, they warranty their work and know more about the car than any independent. Chances are, like me your insurance co. is paying so you can take it anywhere you want, same deductible regardless. Audi did mine and here are a couple things to watch out for. The windshield has to be CUT out and that means there is a good chance the paint in the small gap between the glass and the frame of the window can get scratched. They scratched mine in two spots and had a professional air brush painter come in and fix it. Also when they replace it they take the wipers off, when they put them back make sure the are back in the original position and not riding high on the windshield.

[ldye]

Thanks for the info. I plan to call my servicing dealer tomorrow and see how long it will take to get a replacement. The part about the paint is my big concern. Hopefully it will be minor.

I have had it replaced and would definitely have it done by Audi dealer, they warranty their work and know more about the car than any independent. Chances are, like me your insurance co. is paying so you can take it anywhere you want, same deductible regardless. Audi did mine and here are a couple things to watch out for. The windshield has to be CUT out and that means there is a good chance the paint in the small gap between the glass and the frame of the window can get scratched. They scratched mine in two spots and had a professional air brush painter come in and fix it. Also when they replace it they take the wipers off, when they put them back make sure the are back in the original position and not riding high on the windshield.

[willyjp]

Thanks for the info. I plan to call my servicing dealer tomorrow and see how long it will take to get a replacement. The part about the paint is my big concern. Hopefully it will be minor.

even more important than the care and quality of the work...which is obviously key....is the specialized knowledge of the particular model and its features, quirks and accessories...

I had a friend who laughed at the Mercedes dealer when they quoted him $1200 for a new windshield on his E class; he went to an independent glass shop ( I think he knew the guy) who he says quoted him slightly more than half the MBZ dealer quote...but he's had NOTHING but trouble ever since!!!

trouble with his wipers, trouble with his rain sensor, trouble with his rear view mirror and with his antennas (not sure which, but one is in the glass, apparently); he ended up having to go to the dealer to get it straightened out...so guess who had the last laugh

[mngolfer]

I had my windshield replaced recently. The factory glass is the only glass available, but my insurance company told me my policy allowed them to chose the glass, but not the replacement company. My dealer gave me a glass replacement company to go to for the replacement. It is the only company the dealer uses. They did a great job. By going to the dealer it was so simple and high quality it was amazing.

Mothertucker has had his windshield replaced three times. He would be a great source for more information. There are some threads on this site discussing windshield replacement.

[Jeff]

I have a tiny rock chip on the passenger side and have been considering whether to get the windshield replaced. I've had many replaced on other cars over the years; some turn out great and some not so great.

For the R8, I would only use the dealer.

[ldye]

Had a long conversation with my service mgr this morning and dealer will sub out the glass install. It will be done at the dealer where the tech's can remove/replace required items. I think my insurance co. is questioning replacing the windshield since they believe the chip repair is sufficient. I may have to eat this myself. I'll not go down without a fight since the chip is in my direct line of vision. I'll play the safety/distraction card!!!

[SDR8]

If there are still cracks, use the rubber end of a hammer and apply a little pressure from the inside and make the crack grow. Then it can be replaced with no questions.