Windscreen Replacement for Subaru Outback - OEM or Aftermarket

SmiTTy on 28/09/2022 - 09:54

Seeking some advice pls.

I need to replacement my windscreen after a rock damaged the windscreen from a truck (I suspect). The crack already started quite large but has also grown - the windscreen does need to be replaced due to the size of the crack and it can't be repaired . I didn't select windscreen repair option on my insurance so that is not an option (I've also looked into whether I can pay the excess so the insurance can cover it - but doesn't look like I can)

The question I have is two fold:
(1) I have one of those subaru's that have eye sight driver assist, rain sensors etc. Should I go with an OEM windscreen, or would aftermarket be sufficient?
(2) Anyone have any recommendations on windscreen replacement in Sydney ?

Thanks

Poll Options

  • 24
    OEM
  • 3
    Aftermarket
Automotive Car Subaru

Comments

  • bobbified on 28/09/2022 - 09:59
    +3

    Get it done by Subaru (who'll use OEM). They'll be able to recalibrate all the cameras and sensors properly too.

    It'll cost you an arm and leg, but it's important to have it done properly since the safety features of your car rely on it.

  • Bid Sniper on 28/09/2022 - 10:00

    Eyesight needs to be recalibrated after windscreen repair. its an expensive kit so need to ask repairer if they are able to do this.

    • pharkurnell on 28/09/2022 - 10:14

      you wouldnt want to know how much for the new landcruisers…. almost not worth it $$ wise.

  • Euphemistic on 28/09/2022 - 10:11
    +3

    Bit late now, but windscreen cover for modern camera equipped cars is a good idea. It’s cheap compared to a windscreen and associated calibrations.

    I’ve never had windscreen cover before, but with my latest car was told it’s pretty expensive to replace a windscreen with safety cameras behind it so signed up. I haven’t replaced a windscreen that would have used the insurance, but it’s worth paying the extra if a new screen will cost close to $2k. Old school windscreens are only a few hundred.

  • JimB on 28/09/2022 - 10:39

    I had to get my windscreen refitted after the seal leaked.

    The independent windscreen repairer had the tools to re calibrate the camera/sensor.

    Some other windscreen repairers advised I had to go back to the dealer.

    As long as you get it in writing/email that the independent windscreen repairer can calibrate the camera/sensor, then no issues with aftermarket if I was paying for it myself.

    If insurance, I'd insist on genuine.

  • pegaxs on 28/09/2022 - 10:54
    +2

    Why do people use the word OEM to mean genuine/official? OEM means "original equipment manufacturer" not "genuine/official Subaru part". "Aftermarket" parts come from OEM's, they just get a different logo printed on them. The company that makes the part is the OEM, not who they sell it to.

    Just blanket calling all genuine parts "OEM" is right up there with "RiGhT oF WaY". Subaru do not make their own windows, they subcontract the work out to an OEM to makes windows. So, technically NO Subaru windows are "OEM" and they are all "aftermarket" (because they are all supplied to Subaru by an OEM)

    For example, Denso make AC compressors for Toyota. They also make the identical unit without Toyota logos on them for about 1/2 the price. Denso are the OEM, not Toyota. They sell them to Toyota, who in turn add them to vehicles and sell them as a "genuine/official" part.

    I'm not saying that Toyota of Subaru are not OEM's, (They do build their own stuff, therefore they are also an OEM), but you cant label a part as OEM when what you mean is "genuine" or "official", because "aftermerket parts are made by…. you guessed it… OEM's.

    Source: I work for an OEM.

    • brownsound on 28/09/2022 - 19:00

      can i say 'OEM spec' instead?

  • Ryanek on 28/09/2022 - 12:14

    Always tick the windshield repair option when getting insurance. For Bingle for example it's only $50, well worth it.

    • Flying Ace on 28/09/2022 - 12:25

      If I have a chip in the windscreen will they replace the whole screen, or just pay for a repair? I'm with Budget and have windscreen cover.

      • Ryanek on 28/09/2022 - 14:02

        If the chip is bigger than a 10c piece they will repair the whole windshield, otherwise they'll patch it.

        • Euphemistic on 28/09/2022 - 14:43

          It also depends where the chip is. In front of the driver in ‘the zone’ they may refuse to repair.

    • Euphemistic on 28/09/2022 - 12:52

      For me it would have been worth it for the last 20ish years. No only have I not had a windscreen worth claiming, the latest one I replaced was around $300. $50 for 20years is a bit more.

      If you live/drive gravel roads regularly it’s probably worth it.

      • brendanm on 28/09/2022 - 12:59

        Any car with windscreen camera, auto brake, adaptive cruise etc, can have extremely expensive windscreen replacement and sensor calibration.

        • Euphemistic on 28/09/2022 - 14:44

          Yes. I now h e windscreen cover on newest car. Older car will be replaced soon and new one will have windscreen cover.

  • brendanm on 28/09/2022 - 12:58

    Add windscreen cover.

    Wait 2 weeks.

    Claim windscreen.

    • Ryanek on 28/09/2022 - 14:04

      They typically only let you add windshield cover for new applications or when you're renewing to avoid this dodgy practice :)

  • mozatihom on 29/09/2022 - 07:25
    +1

    When I bought my Outback used from a Mazda dealer 2 years ago they had to replace the windscreen for the roadworthy certificate. They used an aftermarket windscreen and took the car to Subaru for Eyesight calibration. $1500 for the screen and $500 for calibration.

    I've had no issues with the aftermarket screen or with the Eyesight cameras. If you have to pay for a screen out of pocket then no issues using an aftermarket one.

  • Unattainablebacon on 11/02/2023 - 10:12

    hey all
    i recently got my subaru forester windscreen replaced by obrien glass. No idea whether it is OEM or not. They had staff onsite to recalibrate it. But they could only get it to 90%.

    Obrien glass said to drive around with it for an hour with eyesight 'on' and it will auto recalibrate. I've taken it back after 1 month of driving around with cruiser control and without. But its still at 90%.

    Does anyone have any experience in getting their eyesight calibration to 100% ? or how to do this by just driving around????

    • Hackney on 11/02/2023 - 10:51

      @Unattainablebacon, it won’t be OEM,it will more than likely have come out of China.

  • Hackney on 11/02/2023 - 10:50

    Insurance providers generally only use O’briens or similar.If you want ‘OEM’, you have to pay.

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