Any noticeable difference from OEM windshield and non OEM replacement? Do the position of the wiper blades make replacing the windshield a job for an experienced installer?

 

I'm not sure any of the non-OEM glass available offers the acoustic glass you have with the OEM windshield. That's definitely a point you should check before opting for non-OEM.

 

Read: Need to get windshield replaced on 08 RL - AcuraZine Community

 

Huge difference in quality between OEM & aftermarket. The only aftermarket option I could find was made in China by PPG and does not have the acoustic barrier. Try to work with your dealer and see if they'll match the price on the Web because if you buy from someplace like acurapartswarehouse.com, you'll have to pay shipping which will be well over $100 with no guarantee that it'll arrive in one piece. I ended up driving to Atlanta to meet the parts delivery person from Acura of Augusta to pick up my OEM and delivered it by hand to my installer who is vastly experienced. You should probably order all of the clips, trim (except for the side trim) & foam backing strips, too. All of that is not cheap either.

Expect to spend around $1K if you're lucky, $1300 if you're not. It would help if the windshields for this car were not shit in the first place. Softest glass I've ever seen. Don't try to use glass polish, either. Don't ask how I know---

 

I personally don't see any difference but if you're getting yours replaced anyways have the guy see if there's rust on the drivers top corner where the windshield sits. Some of the RLs get rust spots there overtime even when the factory windshield is still in place which would cause water leak into your a-pillar. If rust is present they should able to sand it down apply some paint and extra sealant around the area.