Long story short I need a new windshield in my 2016 RDX with AWP.

So far insurance is saying they will only pay for aftermarket. I want OEM, and it looks like Acura does also. Though in this release they recommend but not require it: https://rts.i-car.com/images/pdf/oem...ents/18128.pdf

What is the consensus here on OEM versus aftermarket windshields? How can I get my insurance to pay for the OEM glass, or is it not necessary?

 

I have never gotten OEM glass when replacing a windshield; it is certainly possible that there are specific reasons for using OEM glass, but it seems unlikely to me. I haven't needed to replace the glass on my RDX, so I can't specifically vouch for non-OEM glass on an Acura. My 2014 Tech does not have any of the systems which Honda is saying my be problematic with non_OEM glass, but if yours 2016 does, then you will have to decide. Reading the notice, it appears to be boilerplate "You should use OEM parts because we make a helluva lot of pure profit by selling them", but it's hard to say. Sometimes saving money costs more in the long run. Wish I could be more help.


RFT!!!
Dave Kelsen
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Would I ask you a rhetorical question?

 

Inspect the replacement before they start the process. Look at the glass at all areas and from different angles looking for defects or distortions. If it's no good, ask for a new one and try to get OEM. If there are problems, the shop will reorder, but likely not OEM the first time. Repeat on the next windshield if there is a defect, as it's likely to be there if it was in the first replacement. If the windshield is from the OEM manufacturer, it'll be fine, just won't have a Honda/Acura logo on it but it will be nearly identical otherwise.

For my Audi, the first time I went to get the windshield replaced, there was major distortions around the outside. After the 4th windshield they ordered with issues, insurance authorized OEM glass.

 

Use Acura glass. Could you make a deal w/ insurer & installer that you pay the diff?

 

Of course I can, but why would I want to? That defeats the purpose of insurance.

 

The question is do you have one of the safety systems that utilizes a camera in the rearview mirror? If you do, the windshield you use is important to the proper operation. Your insurance company should know that.

Maybe the aftermarket windshield takes this into account, maybe it doesn't. These safety systems have been around for years. Any reputable installer will know what will work and what won't. If it works fine with the aftermarket, the insurance company saves money. If not, they need to replace it with OEM.

 

My 2014 has a new aftermarket windshield as of 2 months ago, no problems. An auto glass supplier is not going to be supplying a windshield that is not going to work for the model it was ordered for. Same for the manufacturer.

 

Isn't there some issue with the Advanced trim an rain sensing wipers related to the the windshield?

re: insurance. The policy will spell out the specifics of windshield coverage. My insurance (at the time) would only cover an aftermarket windshield.
I was able to negotiate an OEM equivalent by paying the difference. I knew who made the OEM and specified that. I wanted the color and heat rejecting
properties of OEM. I had a really great dealer service manager (they do exist!) who hooked me up with the guy they use. I was able to leave the car at the dealer on the day
he was coming in. It cost me about $100.00 more. I had to pay the whole amount and wait for insurance reimbursement.