Windshield Replacement: OEM or Fuyao?
4 Answers
Both OEM and Fuyao glass can be used for windshield replacement. Replacing the windshield with the original model ensures better performance. During the process, the vehicle's ETC device must be removed and reinstalled after windshield installation. Window tinting can then be applied. After replacement, the vehicle should not be used for 2 to 3 days. Automotive windshields are typically designed as large curved single-pane structures with specific curvatures on all sides. They are primarily made of laminated tempered glass, which can withstand strong impacts and provide survival space for passengers. Upon impact, the glass breaks into small blunt fragments to minimize injury risk. Precautions for windshield replacement: Avoid car washing for three days post-replacement. Remove positioning adhesive tapes after three days. Minimize driving on bumpy roads and avoid sudden braking/acceleration to prevent windshield displacement. Do not insert parking permits or cards between the windshield and dashboard. Avoid highway driving and maintain speeds below 80 km/h. Refrain from applying window tint for seven days. For rear windshield replacements, keep windows closed during driving for three days to prevent wind-induced displacement.
I struggled with this issue last year too. Honestly speaking, if your budget allows, go for the OEM glass. If not, Fuyao is a decent alternative. The OEM glass fits perfectly with the car frame, and the sealing strips align flawlessly, resulting in minimal wind noise at high speeds. Fuyao isn't bad either—it meets all the standards for light transmission and UV protection. The key factor is the installer's skill. Once, a shop worker used aftermarket adhesive, and it ended up leaking during rain. If you plan to sell your car within three years, it's worth spending a bit more on OEM glass, as it can increase the resale value by a few thousand. Of course, for a budget car around 100,000 yuan, Fuyao is perfectly fine—saving 2,000 yuan for gas isn't a bad deal, right?
A veteran mechanic with over a decade of experience says that 90% of car owners will find Fuyao glass perfectly adequate. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) glass is often just rebranded from suppliers, and many brands actually source from Fuyao. The key is to check for the 'E1' certification circle mark on the glass—its presence indicates compliance with equivalent safety standards. However, it's important to note that if your vehicle has a lane-keeping camera or rain sensor, you should opt for coated acoustic glass specifically. The reflection from standard glass can interfere with sensor sensitivity. Last time, a client chose the basic option to save money, and their automatic wipers kept malfunctioning, resulting in two unnecessary trips to the shop.
From personal experience: Always opt for OEM parts if insurance covers it, but choose Fuyao for self-paid replacements. My BMW's windshield got a crack from a stone, and the dealership quoted 9800. After claiming insurance, I realized the part number was identical to Fuyao's 6800 version. Key point! Avoid washing the car for three days post-replacement, and in winter, it's best to park underground. Sudden temperature drops before the adhesive dries can cause sealing failure. Oh, and pay close attention to the rearview mirror base alignment. My neighbor's dashcam kept recording crookedly after a glass replacement due to a misaligned mount.
