OEM or OEE Windshield Replacement – Which Is Best?

You know it’s time to replace your vehicle’s windshield. You’ve started shopping around and maybe asked for windshield replacement prices, but there’s something you’re not sure about: should you choose between OEM or OEE windshield replacement?

If you don’t know what those terms mean, you’re not alone.

Deciding on these windshield replacement options can be confusing when you’re comparing quotes and trying to understand the differences.

In this post, we’ll go over what each of these means, what it means for your car, their pros and cons, and how to decide which one is best for you.

What Is an OEM Windshield?

An OEM or Original Equipment Manufacturer windshield is made by the same company that made your vehicle’s original windshield. OEM glass will have the same specifications and the same design, thickness, and shape. It will also have that manufacturer’s logo.

Pros of Choosing An OEM Windshield:

• Perfect Fit: An OEM windshield is designed for your vehicle’s year, make, and model, so you know it will be an exact fit.
• Maintains Vehicle Integrity: OEM parts can keep your resale value higher, especially in newer or classic cars.
• May Be Required for Leased Vehicles: Some lease agreements require OEM parts for repairs, including windshields.

Cons of Choosing An OEM Windshield:

• Higher Cost: Brand-name OEM windshields will be 20-30% more expensive than non-OEM ones.
• Not Always Necessary for Safety: Non-OEM windshields have to pass the same inspections and are just as safe in Canada.

What Is an OEE Windshield?

An OEE or Original Equipment Equivalent windshield is a replacement model usually made by a different company than the one that made your original. This windshield will have pretty close to the same design specifications and quality but is made by a third-party manufacturer. These windshields are also known as “aftermarket.” The aftermarket glass is almost always cheaper.

Pros of Choosing OEE Windshields:

• More Affordable: OEE windshields are generally 20-30% less expensive than OEM ones.
• Widely Available: OEE windshields are often easier to find for your vehicle as more than just one company can make them.
• Often Just as Reliable: OEE windshields really aren’t much different than OEM ones when it comes to safety and quality.

Cons of Choosing OEE Windshields:

• Potential Slight Differences: OEE windshields might have slight variations from the original, which could affect how perfectly they fit.
• May Not Be as Durable Long Term: Some OEE windshields might not last as long as the original brand name ones, especially in really cold climates.

OEM or OEE Windshield: Key Differences

1. Materials Used: An OEM windshield comes from the same manufacturer using the exact same materials as the original that came with the vehicle. An OEE windshield is made from pretty similar materials, but there might be some slight differences.
2. Price Comparison: On average, an OEM windshield costs 20-30% more.
3. Warranty Differences: An OEM windshield can have longer and more comprehensive warranties.
4. Compatibility with Advanced Vehicle Technologies (ADAS): Vehicles equipped with Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (like lane departure warnings or automatic braking) often have windshield sensors that need very precise calibrating after your windshield is installed. Perfectly fitting an OEM windshield could be better in this situation.

Which One Should You Choose?

Whether you choose to go with OEM or OEE windshield replacement can depend on a few factors:

• Vehicle Age: OEM windshields make sense to keep resale value higher on newer vehicles. For older cars, an OEE windshield will work just the same but with a lower price tag.
• Budget: If budget is your biggest concern, OEE windshields are the way to go.
• Insurance Coverage: Many insurance companies will only cover the cost of an OEE windshield replacement. Check with your policy before you decide.
• ADAS Compatibility: If your vehicle has ADAS features, the precise fit of an OEM windshield replacement can make calibration easier. Your glass repair shop should be able to recommend what the best option is.

Insurance companies will often only cover OEE windshields because they’re cheaper and have the same safety standards. They may cover OEM windshields for newer or high-end vehicles, or when the vehicle’s advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) require precise alignment. In these cases, you might have to pay extra to make up some or all of the difference.

Get a Professional Opinion

OEM and OEE windshields can be confusing. Still not sure? You don’t have to make the decision alone! 

The reality is the best option often depends on what vehicle you’re driving. At BEMAC, our experienced and friendly windshield replacement technicians are here to help you make the right choice.

Come in and talk to us or request a free online quote! With over 60 years of experience in auto glass repair and replacement, we’ll make sure you get the right windshield installed properly and professionally.