What’s the Difference between OEM and OEE Windshield?

Understanding the quality of the windshield you’re replacing is crucial to ensure lasting durability. Alongside identifying the type of auto glass, considering its quality is essential. Currently, two types of qualities exist in the auto glass market. Regardless of the quality of your windshield, receiving proper care and assistance from knowledgeable windshield technicians can significantly contribute to its long-term longevity. In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between OEM and OEE-type windshields.

OEM glass or Original Equipment Manufacturer Windshields

Most vehicle owners would opt for the high-end option of windshields. In this light, OEM windshields are the superior pieces in the industry and are manufactured considering the vehicle’s specific requirements. Essentially, these windshields are the same as the original auto glass that came with your vehicle, so they are both equal and superior in quality.

Depending on your car model, an OEM windshield’s price may be higher than the OEE windshield. It should be noted, though, that most insurance companies don’t usually cover OEM glass.

OEE glass or Original Equipment Equivalent Windshields

OEE glass is also known as Aftermarket glass. These are very similar to OEM, boasting a similar level of quality and meeting comparable standards. Unlike OEM, this type of glass lacks the manufacturer’s logo and is crafted by a certified manufacturer closely affiliated with the vehicle’s makers.

However, they’re not necessarily the same ones responsible for OE/OEM production. In contrast, OEE glass is the more affordable option that replacement technicians usually opt for unless the vehicle is a luxury vehicle or a new model without OEE glass options.

On Safety and Reliability.

OEM car windshields are certified by the Department of Transportation, ensuring the safety and reliability for all car owners with the resilience to endure pressure, stress, and impacts from accidents. This glass is just as dependable as the original windshield.

OEE car windshields might not provide the perfect fit. This can lead to complaints from some clients about bothersome noise and leaks. Often, the safety and reliability of aftermarket auto glass are less certain compared to OEM glass.

On Availability.

OEM windshield replacements may be difficult for those who own an older car model, as the stock of these windshields is limited. This scarcity extends to certain newer models as well.

In terms of availability, OEE presents advantages over OEM counterparts. For one, OEE manufacturers outnumber OEM auto glass producers. Some auto glass companies can obtain OEM designation, but most fail to gain this advantage. Consequently, some companies transition into or already operate as aftermarket auto glass manufacturers, offering various auto glass products to cater to a broader range of vehicle makes and models.

On Insurance.

Most standard car insurance policies do not provide complete coverage for the expense of an OEM windshield. If you rely on your insurance to pay for your windshield replacement, you may be restricted to aftermarket windshields if you seek comprehensive coverage.

There are many things to consider when choosing between OEM and OEE windshield glass. Still, both undergo thorough testing to ensure that regardless of the windshield a customer chooses, it will offer optimal protection in case of accidents or hazardous conditions. Some people opt for an extra layer of protection, just for insurance.

What is Windshield Protection Coating?

Just like how phones or tablets have screen protectors, some cars can opt for windshield films that give your glass an additional layer of protection against accidental damage. These products have nearly transparent, highly durable film coatings that stick to your vehicle’s windshield. Each manufacturer employs its unique blend of materials to create their windshield films. Regardless of the mix, these films seek to mitigate the impact of hail and other bigger debris.

The Pros of Windshield Protection Coating

Overall, an auto glass protection film minimizes or eliminates windshield cracks caused by hail and various impacts. In some cases, this coating can even prevent a windshield from shattering following a collision. With a windshield protection coating, there are many other advantages.

1. Reduces the Need for Windshield Replacement

If your vehicle has already replaced its windshield, there’s still a small possibility for issues to arise. If your windshield was badly installed, it can lead to damaged sealants, bringing in excess road and wind noise and an elevated risk of shattering. With a protective film, you have bigger chances of reducing the likelihood of windshield breakage.

2 Resistant to Staining

Due to their mixture, windshield protection film can effectively repel water and moisture. This enhanced resistance makes them less susceptible to substances like bird droppings, tree sap, water stains, or etching.

3 Windshield UV Protection

Like regular windshield tinting, protection films offer UV filter capabilities. This helps minimize sun damage to dashboards, upholstery, and your skin. Some protection films may also contribute to a cooler interior by reflecting these UV rays.

The Cons of Windshield Protection Coating

1. Needs Professional Assistance

The installation process for putting a protection film on your windshield may be straightforward but it requires high attention to detail. Every step requires flawless execution, from measurement and cutting to cleaning, smoothing and removing air bubbles. Even minor mistakes in these repair processes can lead to significant problems.

2.  Requires More Care

If you’re not the type to give your vehicle extra care, it might be better not to opt for windshield protection coating as it requires a little more maintenance. With this coating, you must

• Regularly clean and remove debris from wiper blades.
• Use windshield wipers only when necessary, such as during rainfall or with washer fluid
• In case of any impact, gently smooth over the hard edges of impact zones to minimize peeling
• Avoid using power washes. Instead, hand wash the coated surface
• Refrain from applying harsh chemicals directly onto the film coating