Replacing a damaged windshield is a very common repair procedure. No doubt, many reading this article have had to replace a vehicle's windshield. And, of course, windshields are frequently damaged not just from stones or road debris but also as a result of collisions. As with all repair procedures, there is a right way and a wrong way to do the job. Also, there is the right part and the wrong part to use. Let's review these two topics: the part and the procedure.

MOPAR GLASS
Windshield glass is actually two pieces of glass bonded together between a plastic film that prevents the glass from shattering when it breaks. Commonly known as safety glass, windshield glass, as well as backlite and window glass, is regulated by federal law. And although the quality of automotive glass is regulated by the government, don't think that all glass is created equal.

As is the case with other automotive parts, counterfeit pieces are out there in the marketplace. If you think you're doing yourself a favor by saving a few bucks on off-brand glass, think again. You might very well be compromising your safety, too. Always insist upon authentic Mopar® glass whenever glass is being replaced.

Mopar glass, and all other Mopar collision parts, are the only parts designed and engineered exclusively for Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles. These parts preserve the integrity of your vehicles and keep these cars, trucks and minivans looking and performing as designed.

Authentic Mopar glass is O.E. quality and the only glass that should be used for replacement on your Chrysler Group LLC vehicle. While it's true that most glass suppliers can cut to the size of any window, it is important to remember windshields are significant load-bearing elements on the vehicle and are as important in a collision as an air bag, seat belt or anti-lock brakes. Mopar glass is designed to help prevent the roof from collapsing in the event of a collision or rollover accident (look at the width of the A pillars; that vast expanse across the front of the car from pillar-to-pillar supporting the roof is accomplished by the windshield). In addition, a properly installed windshield can absorb the potentially lethal force of the airbag, and help position the bag in front of the occupant. It helps keep drivers and passengers from being thrown through the windshield in the event of a severe accident. And color matching of your tinted windows is never the problem it might be if you use aftermarket replacement glass.

In addition to the strength factor, the use of authentic Mopar glass can aid in the installation of the windshield. Like any other part, the one that is designed specifically for a particular vehicle will install easier and have a better fit than one that is reverse engineered by another manufacturer. The net result is no wind noise and no water leaks. Installing the glass correctly also helps to prevent these problems.

WINDSHIELD INSTALLATION PRECAUTIONS
A few words regarding installation precautions:

Do not operate the vehicle on which the new windshield was installed for 24 hours after installation. This amount of time is necessary for the urethane adhesive to cure. If the vehicle is driven less than 24 hours after installation, the adhesive might not be cured and the windshield might not perform properly in the event of an accident.