HUD Windshield – A Special Car Windshield

HUD windshield is a special type of laminated windshield with an additional polarized layer to reflect the images projected on it through a special projector generally mounted on the car dashboard. The basic purpose of this kind of windshield is to give the driver relevant information while driving without looking away from the road.

Why is HUD important?

HUD helps the driver keep his attention on the road while driving. It provides most of the relevant information on the front windshield and hence driver doesn’t need to look down for speed or gear. Some HUD systems are connected to the onboard computer of the car. Hence display information on the windshield related to the car engine and safety systems.

 HUD windshield helps reduce the driver’s reaction time in case of an emergency. Different researchers have pointed out that the major cause of accidents on the road is a distraction to the driver. The lesser the time driver looks down, the lesser is the car prone to accidents.

Also, if a car’s speed is displayed on the windshield, it keeps the driver attentive and hence keeps it under control. The driver doesn’t need to check the speedometer again and again and he can drive at a safe speed limit with correct information through HUD.

Put it in simple words HUD means ” Look straight on the road while driving.”

HUD Technology and its use in Morden day cars

A head-up display or Heads-up display is a military technology that is used to project information regarding a fighter plane’s speed, altitude, weapons system, target, etc in front of the pilot so that he doesn’t need to check down pieces of equipment for details in the cockpit. Since, its first use in world war II by Royal Air Force, HUD has evolved and is more sophisticated now. HUDs are now also used in the civilian aviation and Automotive sector.

Automotive HUDs

Heads-up display or HUD is now a common feature in luxury/premium car brands. Most luxury car brands like Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar Land Rover, BMW, Porsche, etc offer cars either with built-in HUD or you can buy an add-on for the same. Car manufacturers have developed new HUDs for better driver assistance and are using these systems to provide information regarding speed, location, and navigation to the driver right in front of his eyes. New HUD even has additional information, like incoming calls, checking email, etc.

Some of the new HUD Systems use projectors to create a 3D augmented reality (AR) on the windscreen to give a clear idea of the surrounding, and hence keep the drive safer than before.

Is the HUD windshield different from the normal windshield?

Yes, the HUD windshield is different. As we have discussed in the beginning, the HUD windscreen has a special type of PVB layer that can reflect the image projected through the HUD projector on it without distortion. It acts as a virtual horizon in front of the driver and hence displays all details right in front of him.  

The development of the HUD system leads to more advanced HUD windshields and there are only a few car glass manufacturers which supply such windscreens. Saint Gobain Sekurit is one of these manufacturers that supply both OEM and Aftermarket HUD windshields. The quality of the windshield is a crucial component of the HUD system as all information projected needs to be displayed by the windshield without distortion and without blocking the view of the driver.

Some of the car models in India which have HUD windshields are BMW 7 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 3 Series, Audi Q7, Mercedes E-Class, Mercedes S-Class, Porsche Cayenne, Volvo XC90, Volvo S60, etc.  

BMW claims that the BMW HUD windshield helps reduce driver reaction time by 50%.

Mercedes-Benz HUD windshield uses a special film to reflect images sent by the HUD projector which is mounted on the dashboard. The whole windshield is not polarised, but the portion of the windshield has a special film in the PVB layer and acts as a HUD display.

Can we use a normal windshield in place of the HUD windshield?

Yes, you can use a normal windshield but the issue is the quality of PVB. In an ordinary windshield, PVB is not polarized and hence the image projected by HUD will not be clearly visible to the driver. It can also cause misinformation regarding car speed as numbers can be hazy or blur on a normal windshield, and it can compromise safety while driving. So, experts strongly suggest using a specialized HUD windshield rather than a cheap windshield.

Price comparison between windshields

ModelHUD WindshieldNormal Windshield
BMW 5 Series₹ 89523₹ 46033
Volvo XC90₹ 92720₹ 65121
Porsche Cayenne₹ 86464₹ 68509
Mercedes S350₹ 119356₹ 153498

HUD windshield replacement

Since HUD are a special type of car windshield. It needs trained technicians that have experience of handling such types of systems. Windshield Store has technicians that have years of experience in handling luxury car windshields that have special features like Solar windshield, HUD windshields, Heated Windshield, Acoustic windshields, etc. In case you have any issue related to your HUD windshield call us at +91-9278783578 or visit your nearest branch. As you can see through the price comparison of popular models, these are costly windshields. Windshield Store have cashless insurance tie-ups with all major insurers and can help you get a claim in case of any damage.

Difference between OEM Windshield, OES & Aftermarket Windshield

Difference between OEM Windshield, OES & Aftermarket Windshield

OEM and Aftermarket Glass

When going for a windshield replacement the most important thing is the quality of the windshield. Some of us think that all windshields are the same and adopt an inferior one to save some money. The quality of the windshield can prove to be a question of life and death in the case of a mishap.

It is noteworthy that car manufacturers don’t manufacture these windshields. They only procure these from automotive glass manufacturers like Saint-Gobain,  Pilkington, AGC Automotive, Guardian, and Ashai as per strict specifications. So it becomes more important to understand which windshield is suitable for your car.

Always go for an OE glass, its a matter of safety for your family

As far as glass quality is concerned two types of glasses are generally available in the market. OEM Glass (Original Equipment Manufacturers), OES (Original Equipment Suppliers), and AGR ( Aftermarket Glass Replacement)

  1. OEM: These are the windshields supplied by Original Equipment Manufacturers as per the specification of car manufacturers. These include the Thickness of glass, Quality Standards, Colour, all Hardware, and Durability. These windshields are identical to the original windshield which was fitted to your car at the time of purchase. Though sometimes the windshield manufacturer this work is subcontracted, the auto manufacturer continually accepts bids from different glassmakers. Often they will switch glass manufacturers when a lower bid is received, resulting in identical vehicles having glass that is technically manufactured by different companies.
  2. OES: OES windshields are identical to OEM windshields and are manufactured by the same manufacturers the only difference is the car brand logo. OES windshield doesn’t have any car brand logo as in OEM which is only supplied to car manufacturers and is available through Authorized Dealers.
  3. AGR: Aftermarket Replacement Glasses are manufactured by other manufacturers than OE suppliers. These need not have any contract with the car manufacturer. AGR windshields are not identical to OE parts due to copyright and IPR issues. These have the same shape and size but have a difference in Colour tint, Durability and others.

Like most things, the decision may come down to money. Insurance companies may only cover aftermarket glass because it is less expensive. This leaves the car owner to decide whether they want to pay extra for an OEM windshield. Many aftermarket windshields work out very well for the consumer, but those not willing to take a risk on slightly lower quality will often choose to invest in an OEM windshield.

How much does a new windshield replacement cost?

How much does a new windshield replacement cost?

To know about the Windshield replacement cost, first, you have to understand what your windshield is made up of. So, the windshield of a car is not made with regular glass or else it would easily break with any sort of impact. Instead, rather than ordinary laminated glass, the windshield is comprised of tempered glass which is manufactured through heating the normal glass as well as then speedily cooling it. This alternative cooling and heating make regular glass 10 times more powerful along with making it more resistant to breaking. 

  • Its glass has different layers with the help of which the crack is required to spread for fully breaking your windshield. 
  • Now, this means that you stay safe from an injury even in case debris breaks through only the first layers of the glass.
  • Furthermore, even in case the glass breaks, it does so into tiny cube-like pieces with sharp edges rather than sharp shards which is what happens with regular glass. 
  • Driving the vehicle with a destroyed windshield can result in a major collision that might cost you your life along with the other occupants’ lives in your vehicle. 
  • Not only this, but you also won’t have complete visibility while driving that poses a quick threat on the road. 
  • You can be ticketed as well if driving with the damaged windshield. 

So, whether the severe damage falls on your rear windshield (backglass) or the front one, it would be best for you to quickly find out the Windscreen replacement cost and then do it for ensuring your protection. In case the windshield of your car has sustained slight damage which displays itself in a tiny chip form, probably it can be repaired, however, anything which is more than that demands the windshield replacement i.e., plenty of drivers’ worst nightmare. The most general fear is the cost of its replacement. 

As per the National Windshield Repair Association, the basic charge for the windscreen replacement is approximately $350, and this number might vary according to the damage and several factors that affect these rates. 

In the Indian market, the average windshield replacement cost is ₹4500. Though it varies with the car model and brand. But for most of the Indian car models, the replacement cost of a windshield is between ₹3000 – ₹7500. It includes popular cars like Maruti Swift, Honda Amaze, Honda City, Hyundai I20, Hyundai Creta, Ford Ecosport, Maruti Baleno, Mahindra Scorpio, and Mahindra XUV500. While replacing an SUV or a premium sedan Indian car model like Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry will be in the price range of ₹10500 – ₹19500.

If you own a premium imported car like Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, or Mercedes-Benz, replacing a new windshield glass may vary between ₹31000 – ₹355000.

Factors affecting Windshield replacement charges

The rate of the windscreen repair is subject to the particular vehicle besides the damage type sustained by the glass that will affect the cost of replacing your windshield. The replacement will cost extra in case the glass is personalized in a few ways which include – 

  • Special Features – The windshield replacement charges of your car will also factor extra cost according to the vehicle type. A few vehicles have unique moldings that are part of your windshield. It means the glass will also require those for matching structural design. Besides, sometimes, newer vehicles come with characteristics like condensation sensors and rain sensors which involve more work for replacement. What’s more? A few cars can have as much as 5 distinctive sensors along with various hundreds of dollars for replacement. Furthermore, windscreen replacement on the older car without the details will be relatively less. 
  • Vehicle Type – In terms of the cost of windshield replacement, among the first things every store you reach out to is, “what’s the model and make of the vehicle?”This detail has a huge effect on the charges. Luxury vehicles such as Audi or Mercedes might have high Windscreen replacement cost due to their particular dimensions. Sometimes, these can charge 2/3 times what the glass for non-luxury automobiles may cost.
  • As expected, Collectible Cars will cost a lot higher for replacing the windshield as per how tough is it for locating an adequate replacement. 
  • Also, the tinted glass will have a bigger price tag, considering that your windscreen will need to be modified before installation. 

The charge of replacing your windshield might be more than the repair, however, the proper installation is important for ensuring that the vehicle complies with the driver security standards. Another significant factor in terms of Windscreen replacement cost is the location and extent of the damage. A few minor damages can guarantee an instant repair over the complete replacement so make sure to check that which fix is the best for the vehicle.

  • Is your rear windshield damaged or the front one? The replacement of front glass often costs a lot more as compared to the replacement cost of back glass. 
  • The replacement of back glass does not need the additional price of wiper assembly as well as falls in a range of ₹500-₹9000 for the fix. 
  • The vehicle with unique molding might add a maximum of 20% to the repair charges. 
  • Not only the windshields block the debris from flying into the cars, but they are also a part of the structural integrity of your car.
  • Please note that the compromised windshield due to the large crack or a crash can pop out during an accident and that is why you must replace it as soon as possible. 
  • Opting for a reliable Company with insured and certified technicians is your best bet for proper windshield replacement.

Once you know the Windshield replacement cost, contact the professional technician, who, at times, can perform the same day replacement which will cause you sheer convenience. The kind of glass which is utilized for the installation must be OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) for achieving the desired results.

Only those businesses which cater to the below-mentioned expert standards must be trusted with the vehicle – 

  • Use only those products which meet FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards)
  • Follow every instruction of the adhesive manufacturer 
  • Use certified and trained technicians
  • Offer detailed record and written warrants for the completed work
  • Carry proper insurance

Even, it might be dangerous for you to switch on windshield wipers in case it is damaged as this can result in even further cracking and you will be left with no defense against genuine forces like snow and rain. Always remember that in case the wrong replacement windshield gets installed in your vehicle which has a head-up display, you will get a double or ghosted image. You would view actual separation. Say that your vehicle’s speed is 60 mph, then you will view 2-6s i.e., you will view the secondary 6 floating above the primary one. 

Picking the replacement windshield is a complex process. That is why, check with the aftermarket auto glass firms and dealer for determining which of the replacement windshield is needed, whether or not it should be engineered for ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems), HUD (Head-up Displays), as well as rain, sensing wipers or if the bare-bones windshield is enough. 

  • A lot of insurance companies will waive the deductible as well as bear the full Windscreen replacement cost.
  • In case you have the auto warranty, check the particular contract to make sure if the provider covers the windscreen replacements or repairs. 
  • If it is decided that the windshield is required to be replaced, a lot of companies accept the majority forms of insurance along with working around the payment options which cater to your requirements. 
  • The right replacement Company will also manage the paperwork along with directly dealing with the insurance company for making the procedure easy and simple for you. 
  • Never forget that for ensuring the security of everybody traveling in your vehicle, windshield replacement should never be avoided. 
  • There is a high probability that weakened glass will fall into your car as well as will injure both any passenger sitting in the front seat and the driver. 

Have you tried looking through the crack windshield? If yes, then you know that the scratches and cracks decrease the visibility of the driver along with increasing the probability of accidents, specifically in India where congested roads require constant alertness and good visibility. However, if done with the help of the right Company, Windscreen replacement, can be a breeze, even without insurance.

Things to Consider When Buying A New Windshield For Your Car

Things to Consider When Buying A New Windshield For Your Car

At some point, almost every driver has experienced the frustration of cracking or damaging their windshield. And, while the damage might seem like no big deal to you at the time (after all, it happens so frequently!), it’s not until you need to replace your windshield that you realize just how expensive and time-consuming it can be. Check out these couple of things you need to consider when buying a windshield for your car.

Buying a new windshield

1. Signs that you need a new car windshield

Windshield plays an important role in your car, and it is always tempting and safe to get your car windshield replaced timely. But car windshields are expensive so, before looking for a new windshield you must be sure that you need one. There can be n number of reasons for this.

  1. Windshield scratches that interfere with your vision while driving.
  2. A stone chip that may have extended to a large part of your windshield.
  3. A small crack that may distort your car’s aesthetics.
  4. An old windshield with distorted yellowish PVB.

Based on your reason, you may choose to spend ₹3500 – ₹16500 for buying a new car windshield or just do some small-time maintenance to save your hard-earned money.

2. Are there any scratches on the windshield?

While the windshield plays a significant role in your car’s structural integrity, it’s also a safety feature. It’s important to make sure your windshield is clean and scratch-free because if you can’t see out of your windshield, you won’t be able to avoid other vehicles or obstacles. Scratches on your windshield impair visibility and can distort headlights and other light sources. If scratches are severe, you need to replace the windshield glass immediately.

3. Is your windshield cracked or chipped?

Driving down the highway with a cracked windshield is a risky proposition. A small crack in the windshield can grow into a large crack over time, with each bump or jolt that you drive over. The same goes for chips in the windshield. Windshields are made of glass, which is brittle. That means it’s not only easier to break, but also difficult to repair. At best, you may be able to fill the chipped area with resin or epoxy.

4. Is it possible to repair the car windshield?

Cracked Windshield Repair

The main reason why a windshield breaks is a crack, caused by a stone or another object. Sometimes the damage is so large that it’s impossible to fix without replacing the entire windshield. A small crack within 2-3 inches in diameter can be repaired using a windshield repair kit. You should visit your nearest windshield store to check if your windshield crack can be repaired. Size of crack, nature of the crack, its position, and depth are a few factors that you need to consider while repairing a cracked windshield. Windshield crack repair will only cost you around ₹1000 – ₹2000, way cheaper than buying a new windshield.

Here is how you can prevent windshield crack in the first place but it may not be always possible due to the conditions in which you need to drive. 

5. What kind of car do you have?

If your car windshield can’t be repaired, you have to choose a replacement. Each car has a unique windshield and hence, before buying a new windshield you need to check your car type. The best way is to share your car Registration Certificate (RC) with your auto glass company. RC has all information regarding model, make, year and car VIN number to identify correct windshield for your car. It would help the glass company to give you a correct estimate for windshield replacement.

6. Convertible and hardtop cars have different windshields

You may or may not know but your car windshield can be different irrespective of the same car models like in the case of the Audi A3.

Confused!

Let me clarify. Audi A3 has 2 types of cars available on the market – a convertible and a hardtop model. Most of the parts in these cars are common to decrease the cost of development but due to different types of car roof style and design, windshields are different. So, while buying a car windshield you need to keep in mind that you are buying the correct windshield if your car model has a sunroof or convertible variant.

7. The cost of a windshield replacement!

Now, since it is decided that you need a new car windshield. You need to check the total cost of a windshield replacement. Replacing a car windshield in India may cost somewhere between ₹3500 – ₹16000. But replacement cost depends on various factors:

  • Your car make, model, and year of manufacturing
  • Brand of your car windshield
  • Type of adhesive
  • Type of workshop
  • Your insurance cover
  • Doorstep Service
  • Any additional repair like sensors

8. Should you use your insurance for Windshield replacement?

Windshield damage is the most common type of glass damage in a car. But, before you get worried about replacement costs, check out if you have valid car insurance. Your insurance covers the complete cost of a new windshield replacement. You just need to contact a windshield glass company and provide them with the relevant documents, the store manager will do all documentation on your behalf. You should avoid using insurance for windshield replacement only if your windshield cost is less than your No Claim Bonus and claim processing fee.

9. What are the windshield safety features?

New car windshields have many attached safety features like Rain and Light Sensors, IR cameras for night vision, small radars to detect pedestrians or lane-keeping sensors, etc. The addition of such high-tech technologies increases the cost of the windshield as well as the labor cost for replacement. As you need an experienced technician who can handle such sensitive equipment. Also, after replacing a new windshield, these sensors need calibration. Windshield calibration costs may vary between $120 – $250.

10. Should you go to a workshop or a windshield replacement company?

This is an important point to consider while buying a new windshield for the replacement. You may be tempted to go to your regular service workshop or an authorized dealer. But before you go think about the number of tasks your workshop performs. Windshield Repair and Replacement is a specialized job and needs skills and training. Your car workshop usually doesn’t have glass experts also they don’t repair your windshield crack and will always suggest you a replacement. Hence, you should always look for a trustworthy car glass replacement company.

To Wrap Things Up: While buying a windshield for your car, there are many things to keep in mind before making a final decision. After reading this article you must be in a better position to buy a windshield for your car. If you’re interested in more information about windshields and how they affect the performance of your car, please call our customer care number at +91-9278783578 or visit our nearest Windshield Store.

How To Spot A Bad Windshield Replacement Before It Is Too Late

How To Spot A Bad Windshield Replacement Before It Is Too Late

If you find yourself driving around town where the roads meet and there’s a crack in your windshield, you may be tempted to call a random auto glass shop and schedule an appointment. Of course, you’ve probably heard that this can lead to higher costs or even worse service. If you feel like you’re being taken advantage of because of your situation, then it’s time to learn how to spot a bad windshield replacement.

Auto Glass Replacement
Highway View through a newly replaced car windshield

Signs of an Bad Windshield Replacement

Here are 6 signs that can help you spot a bad windshield replacement and take the precautionary steps before it’s too late.

Sign 1. The Rattling Sound Inside The Car Cabin

The rattling sound inside the car cabin is very disturbing. It can be irritating at times. However, this rattling sound is not always a cause of concern. There are many reasons that are responsible for this rattling sound inside the car cabin. The most common is a poorly installed car windshield.

Rattling sound is produced if the car windscreen is not properly placed by your auto glass company. The misalignment of the car windshield causes a rattling sound that can be really annoying. It also compromises safety as a misplaced windshield has no strength or stability.

Sign 2: Water Seepage

Water seepage through glass corners or sunroof corners can be caused due to poor application of adhesive. It requires a skilled technician to apply glass adhesive to your car frame during an auto glass installation. If the adhesive bead is not even there is always a probability of water getting inside the car cabin under high-pressure wash or during continuous rain.

Sign 3. Bad Quality Glass

Another aspect of a poor auto glass replacement is the glass quality. Most reputed auto glass experts use OEM glass for replacement, but some may not prefer genuine glass due to higher costs. Low-grade car glass can be determined through its quality. If you have any issues regarding visibility, transparency, or light spreading during the night, you need to reconsider glass quality.

Sign 4. Gaps In A-Frame

Any auto glass installation having a gap in glass and its frame can cause a whooshing sound inside the car cabin. It also increases cabin noise level as you will hear more sounds from surrounding due to a hole or a gap between your car windshield glass and its body. One major reason behind this is the poor workmanship, where your auto glass technician doesn’t bother to clear the old adhesive and fitted a new windshield over the old bead. It creates porous gaps in old and new adhesive layers allowing air and noise inside the car cabin.

Sign 5: Rushing Off

A glass expert who is not giving proper time to the glass installation does more harm. Rushing through the auto glass installation process can result in poor adhesive application, wrong glass fitting, improper wiper installation, or in an extreme case it may lead to breakage of glass at the time of installation.

Sign 6: Under-staff In The Car Glass Workshop

One of the most important things to car glass store owners is to know how many people they need for a job. A car front glass replacement needs a team of at least 2 skilled technicians. This is to support the removal of the old windscreen, application of glass adhesive, fitting glass molding, and placing a new windshield correctly on the car frame. If the workshop doesn’t have enough staff to complete the glass installation process, it can lead to a poor replacement due to an unintentional human error.

What Causes A Poor Auto Glass Installation?

Let’s check out how you can avoid a poor auto glass replacement. To do so you need to know the reasons which cause a poor windshield installation.

1st Cause: Poor Quality Products

Use of poor quality products during auto glass replacement like glass, adhesive, molding, trims or sensor brackets can compromise installation. This is the major cause of poor installation. Quality compromise in case of glass or adhesive can lead to an unable windscreen that can go off the frame during a car crash resulting in poor passenger safety.

2nd Cause: Using Improper Tools

Auto glass replacement is a specialized field and needs special tools to complete the glass replacement job. Using improper tools like clutch wire for removing old windshields or not using glass lifters while placing new windshields on frames can cause improper windshield placement. Some glass experts don’t use industry-recommended windshield replacement tools to reduce cost which in turn compromises their service quality.

3rd Cause: Untrained Technicians

Poor windshield replacement can be caused due to improper technician training. To keep up with the latest updates regarding auto glass technology and car models it is necessary that glass stores impart proper and timely training to their technicians. These mid carrier trainings improve overall industry standard and service quality. It also avoids many human errors as technicians learn from their peers regarding different issues faced by them while handling new car windshields and sensors.

4th Cause: Driving Right After Installtion

All car glass experts suggest waiting for at least an hour before driving a car with a new windshield installation. This waiting period is called Safe Drive Away Time (SDAT). This ensures that the glass adhesive is cured enough that a small jerk while driving will not impact the glass position. Sometimes glass installers don’t bother to educate customer regarding SDAT and sometimes customer avoids waiting due to a busy schedule.

How to Select A Reputed Car Glass Expert?

Selecting a reputed car glass replacement company that uses genuine products and has years of experience in glass replacement is the right thing to do. A car glass expert like Windshield Store never compromises with the product quality and always tells you to give priority to genuine car glass. Timely staff training, using specialized tools, insurance tie-ups, and good customer reviews are a few things that you can look for while selecting a car glass installer for you.

Conclusion: Our article on how to spot a bad windshield replacement will arm you with the knowledge needed to choose a reputable company. Using the tips in this article, you can ensure that your windshield replacement is done right and you don’t end up paying hundreds of dollars for a botched job.

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