E34 Windshield Options

[84318i]

Hello,

So my windshield needs to be replaced, it had two cracks and now developed lines as well.

I've done the replacement on my other car, but if the e34 windshield replacement process is anything like the e32 then I would rather not even attempt it.

What glass is ok to get and what to avoid?
Is the gasket ok to re-use?

Average cost?

Thanks!

93 525i.

[JamieNL]

Around these parts (Northern VA), you can get a brand new windshield for roughly $300 installed (non OEM BMW, since BMW OEM glass is roughly $1000 if you want the little BMW emblem in the corner of the windshield), and if you have it done, they'll put a new gasket around it as well, even if you do it yourself, a new gasket is a must, it might look okay, but better to be certain and get a new one fitted, than risk it leaking, allowing in moisture, getting cancer around the windshield, leaks, etc. etc.

Even if the old one were to be used, and it leaks, I've heard that they can take out the windshield and install a new gasket, but the chances that they break the current/new windshield are pretty good (then again they might break it on purpose to get more money out of ya :lol3 )

As far as what glass to be used or avoid, that I don't really have any knowledge of, I just know that the BMW glass is way more expensive.

Just my $0.02

[5senses]

Junkyard: $50 max.
Tools: $50 max..... sealant cutter, new sealant, caulking gun, razors, windshield trim strips
Labor: depends who u pay..

[JC3series]

Payed $200 installed for mine locally from a quality glass place. Haven't had a single issue besides it not having the bmw badge. :)

[LouieD]

Bonded glass can be a PITA. Why buy a used/pitted/chipped glass, go through the hassle of removal (and possible breakage) when new glass is <$200 installed.

I bought a windshield for the Touring 1.5 yrs ago for $129 installed.

[pushpins]

I replaced mine two times with glass without the BMW-logo and they broke pretty quickly.. Last one was from a BMW dealer and its has hold up.

Arent windshield-swap covered by your insurance?

[jbondbmw]

I had mine replaced by Safelite when hair damaged the trim.

The new Safelite glass came with clips and new OEM BMW trim was ordered.

Here is the finished product:

http://i573.photobucket.com/albums/ss173/jbondbmw/DSC01468.jpg
http://i573.photobucket.com/albums/ss173/jbondbmw/DSC01464.jpg

Cost was $400. I paid $100 since that is all my deductible was.

[cmgreensr]

I had mine replaced by Safelite when hair damaged the trim.

The new Safelite glass came with clips and new OEM BMW trim was ordered.

Here is the finished product:

http://i573.photobucket.com/albums/ss173/jbondbmw/DSC01468.jpg
http://i573.photobucket.com/albums/ss173/jbondbmw/DSC01464.jpg

Cost was $400. I paid $100 since that is all my deductible was.


Dude, tell her to use some conditioner or something!

[84318i]

Used is not even an option, I am not going to waste time pulling a used glass or anything like that since this is bonded.

I got a safelite quote and it's just over $200 installed, but I don't think that's with a new gasket. I wonder if they'll install a new gasket and I provide them one?

Your Quote
Quote: $198.95 (includes labor, before tax and service fee(s))

AAA also offers a 10% discount for Safelite as one of the member discounts. Premier membership has $50 reimbursement , probably can't use both lol

[jbondbmw]

Dude, tell her to use some conditioner or something!


Opps! I meant hail. :eek:


Used is not even an option, I am not going to waste time pulling a used glass or anything like that since this is bonded.

I got a safelite quote and it's just over $200 installed, but I don't think that's with a new gasket. I wonder if they'll install a new gasket and I provide them one?

Your Quote
Quote: $198.95 (includes labor, before tax and service fee(s))

AAA also offers a 10% discount for Safelite as one of the member discounts. Premier membership has $50 reimbursement , probably can't use both lol

I requested that they get OEM BMW trim. I wanted to make sure it was done properly and they didn't put in some POS generic rubber gasket.

[84318i]

Opps! I meant hail. :eek:



I requested that they get OEM BMW trim. I wanted to make sure it was done properly and they didn't put in some POS generic rubber gasket.

Nice, I'll give them a call to find out exactly what is included in their quote and maybe I can source a new gasket for a good price if they will install it.

[TouringGuy]

I got mine replaced by a local vender. $250 something. Dropped it off in the morning and picked it up in the afternoon. It's probably cheaper and worth your time just to take it somewhere.

[camaroguy]

I thought the bmw windsheild could be had for around $400. I also hear aftermarket glass is thiner and breaks faster/easier (from friends who have put it in their other cars, also stated above)...I have not had my windshield break yet, so I don't know from experience.

Edit: Part#: 51318117303 $270.00 at getbmwparts.com, though I am not sure what it would cost to ship it.

[84318i]

I'll see if I can get it for less locally, but I'll most likely will just go with safelite unless I find someone else who can do a quality job. I don't honestly care if it's a non-bmw glass, now if it was a limited production/run car then sure :)

[trive2]

Mine was no harder than any other car, mind you, we just sikaflex'd the new one in and then stuck the trim on top, I hope I dont smash the screen again!

And be careful with the glass. I was lucky, mine only cost $150AUD (CHEAP) and is perfect, but my parents have had cheap glass replacements before and the glass is warped. Will give headaches.

[Dexm]

I requested that they get OEM BMW trim. I wanted to make sure it was done properly and they didn't put in some POS generic rubber gasket.

:thumbup:

[ross1]

I had mine replaced by Safelite when hair damaged the trim.

The new Safelite glass came with clips and new OEM BMW trim was ordered.

Here is the finished product:

http://i573.photobucket.com/albums/ss173/jbondbmw/DSC01468.jpg
http://i573.photobucket.com/albums/ss173/jbondbmw/DSC01464.jpg

Cost was $400. I paid $100 since that is all my deductible was.

The moldings make the job.
They used to be super expensive but are less now, eighty something a piece now, used to be near $400 for both sides.
OP; not worth DIY unless you have no insurance. Check used glass carefully for "clams" at the edges where it's been chipped on removal, these can become cracks with a little stress.

[84318i]

Yeah, thanks I am not doing a used glass or diy :)