Acoustic windshield ?

[clAudi]

Hi all,

Recently had my windshield replaced by Safelite with OEE glass and noticing a considerable amount increased road noise. Wish I could've checked when my original windshield was on but I want to know if our windshields are acoustic from the factory ?

Thanks,



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[bhvrdr]

Most of them on the s4 are. Some early ones weren't iirc

[B18b1ex]

Mine has to be replaced as I type i am on hold with State Farm, sincerely hope it's not a battle to get the original Acoustic glass installed.


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[sacandagaD]

Mine has to be replaced as I type i am on hold with State Farm, sincerely hope it's not a battle to get the original Acoustic glass installed.


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When they set you up to talk with the installer ( not Lynx ), make sure you ask them about it and tell them what you want.

[CrownSeven]

Not sure if folks know this, but some insurers (looking at YOU AMFAM) - have a pretty shady setup when it comes to glass replacement. From what I was told - AMFAM contracts all their glass replacement to one vendor (can't recall who it is right now) - so when you call to make a glass claim - you're actually speaking to the glass company, not your insurance company. So if you want to use OEM, and your insurer says 'no' - it doesn't really mean 'no'. The way the my call went is - 'we'll only cover the cost up to this amount and if you go with this vendor, otherwise you are responsible for the charges out of pocket' - which is just a scammy way of them convincing you to go with their option. I refused and they covered the full costs with my chosen vendor instead.

This is Minnesota so not sure if this applies to other states, but be persistent and if you want OEM glass, go with a vendor who will provide OEM glass and who will most likely not be the one recommended by your insurer.

[Joker S4]

^Not sure what AMFAM is, but I think all insurance companies try to get out of everything as cheaply as possible. But I'll x2 your opinion, be persistent in what you want.

[Race Shooter]

My 2015 most definitely was. When I had it replaced, I took a photo of the printing on the windshield with the acoustic logo to make sure it was the same on the new one when installed.

[clAudi]

Not sure if folks know this, but some insurers (looking at YOU AMFAM) - have a pretty shady setup when it comes to glass replacement. From what I was told - AMFAM contracts all their glass replacement to one vendor (can't recall who it is right now) - so when you call to make a glass claim - you're actually speaking to the glass company, not your insurance company. So if you want to use OEM, and your insurer says 'no' - it doesn't really mean 'no'. The way the my call went is - 'we'll only cover the cost up to this amount and if you go with this vendor, otherwise you are responsible for the charges out of pocket' - which is just a scammy way of them convincing you to go with their option. I refused and they covered the full costs with my chosen vendor instead.

This is Minnesota so not sure if this applies to other states, but be persistent and if you want OEM glass, go with a vendor who will provide OEM glass and who will most likely not be the one recommended by your insurer.

Safelite would provide OEM glass I'm just trying to justify why my insurance should pay for it. If I can prove that my original glass is acoustic then they would have to give me OEM.


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[clAudi]

Most of them on the s4 are. Some early ones weren't iirc

Is there a way to confirm if mine did or didn't with our access to the original glass?


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[sacandagaD]

If the glass is manufactured by one of the same companies that Audi specs for their OEM installs, like St Gobain-Sekurit or Pilkington, it is supposed to meet stringent specs for replacement glass. 3rd party non-OEM suppliers are not held to same standards.

If you take a minute to ask a reputable installer exactly what they are going to use, they will tell you what they recommend and why ( IF they are trustworthy). If you don't say anything ahead of time, buyer beware what you get. You definitely do not want cheap 3rd party aftermarket glass.

[klquattro]

GEICO wouldn't replace my windshield unless I hit my deductible (I am sure that's normal) but to top it off, they wouldn't even pay for OEM. They would only approve and pay for whatever was over my deductible and if it was aftermarket glass.

I ended up just paying full out of pocket for an OEM replacement done by Safelite. They did a good job and I haven't noticed a difference. No problems with the auto-wipers either which I was worried about.

OP, if you think its leaking or there is excess wind-noise over the original, Safelite will come check it out and fix it for free, at least that's what they told me.

[clAudi]

GEICO wouldn't replace my windshield unless I hit my deductible (I am sure that's normal) but to top it off, they wouldn't even pay for OEM. They would only approve and pay for whatever was over my deductible and if it was aftermarket glass.

I ended up just paying full out of pocket for an OEM replacement done by Safelite. They did a good job and I haven't noticed a difference. No problems with the auto-wipers either which I was worried about.

OP, if you think its leaking or there is excess wind-noise over the original, Safelite will come check it out and fix it for free, at least that's what they told me.

They said they can't do anything about increased road noise UNLESS my original windshield was acoustic


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[Race Shooter]

What year is your car?

[Race Shooter]

This is my factory windshield on my 2015. If you want to use the photo to prove that is what Audi provides, you're welcome to do so.

[SDV325]

I had to specifically request acoustic glass, was only $20-$30 more depending on the shop.

Always make sure to request OE glass replacement NOT aftermarket, yes it costs more probably double but why skimp out on something that could irritate you daily. Requested OE glass, got Pilkington. Very satisfied, as all the side windows are Pilkington.
Aftermarket will get you cheap Chinese glass. From past experience this stuff almost always has some sort of defects, plus it will chip, crack and pit so much easier.

Locally cost breakdown was;
Aftermarket ~ $270-$340
OE ~ $540
OEM ~ $750 plus install (or $1100+ from the dealer)

[klquattro]

I had to specifically request acoustic glass, was only $20-$30 more depending on the shop.

Always make sure to request OE glass replacement NOT aftermarket, yes it costs more probably double but why skimp out on something that could irritate you daily. Requested OE glass, got Pilkington. Very satisfied, as all the side windows are Pilkington.
Aftermarket will get you cheap Chinese glass. From past experience this stuff almost always has some sort of defects, plus it will chip, crack and pit so much easier.

Locally cost breakdown was;
Aftermarket ~ $270-$340
OE ~ $540
OEM ~ $750 plus install (or $1100+ from the dealer)

I know OP already had it installed, but these were essentially the same prices offered to me. I think I ended up paying $600 total for Safelite to install it, OEM w/ acoustic.

OP, if you have your VIN, I would think you should be able to get into contact with either AoA or your local dealer and see if they can tell you if acoustic glass was originally used.

[miztahsparklez]

I just replaced my windshield with a pilkington... it's differently shaped than oem. If I would have known, I would have just paid extra for OEM glass. My factory sun shade no longer fits...


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[Ordie]

GEICO wouldn't replace my windshield unless I hit my deductible (I am sure that's normal) but to top it off, they wouldn't even pay for OEM. They would only approve and pay for whatever was over my deductible and if it was aftermarket glass.

I ended up just paying full out of pocket for an OEM replacement done by Safelite. They did a good job and I haven't noticed a difference. No problems with the auto-wipers either which I was worried about.

OP, if you think its leaking or there is excess wind-noise over the original, Safelite will come check it out and fix it for free, at least that's what they told me.

That's odd. GEICO pretty much give me one option and it was to use Safelite and I didn't have to pay a deductible but that all depends on the state. Now when the Safelite employee replace my windshield on my Nissan Titan, he said they recycled their glass and manufactured their own glass.

[sacandagaD]

I just replaced my windshield with a pilkington... it's differently shaped than oem. If I would have known, I would have just paid extra for OEM glass. My factory sun shade no longer fits...


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That sounds bizarre, did you take it back or you say anything to the installer?

[clAudi]

This is my factory windshield on my 2015. If you want to use the photo to prove that is what Audi provides, you're welcome to do so.

Thanks I spoke with satelite already and they sent me a picture of the glass they will be installing on my car this weekend it is OEM the stamp looks just like yours but without the acoustic lettering.

They'll be changing at no cost to me. Not sure if I should just take a that or insist on acoustic my car is a 2010 and according some members on here some of the earlier models didn't get acoustic ?

What's your opinion ? I think the fact that it's OEM will be in stone ways better in terms of sound deadening then their chinese counterparts.


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[B18b1ex]

State Farm is apparently allowing me to have the glass shop order the glass from my dealer via the vin and then they will install.


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[Dr GP]

This is my factory windshield on my 2015. If you want to use the photo to prove that is what Audi provides, you're welcome to do so.

I recently had my windshield replaced twice in a week by Safelite. They first used a Fuyao Brand ,but the distortion was so bad I told them that they would have to keep replacing it until I was happy with the glass. Tech called foreman and he authorized the use of OEM glass .Markings are exactly the same as this picture. I first called my Insurance co and told them I was not happy with the original glass. And Safelite guarantees your satisfaction. New glass has no issues. Cost me $100 deductible. So if you stand your ground and know your rights, you should be able to get OEM glass. Mine does say" acoustic".

[miztahsparklez]

Yeah they won't let me swap. Oh well, notes for next time. If you have the Audi sun shade, always get OEM, otherwise it won't fit.


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[jlaudio]

I wonder if my early 2010 has acoustic glass. Any downsides on going from non-acoustic to acoustic glass? I have a big chip in my windshield that I'd rather pay to replace than repair, it has 7 years of road rash on it.

Good thread IMO.

[swest1]

I wonder if my early 2010 has acoustic glass. Any downsides on going from non-acoustic to acoustic glass? I have a big chip in my windshield that I'd rather pay to replace than repair, it has 7 years of road rash on it.

Good thread IMO.

Just checked logo on my 2010 and it looks identical to the photo posted here, but does not say "acoustic". I guess I can assume my windshield is not acoustic? In Colorado and have to replace windshields on my vehicles usually once a year.

[LYKUNO]

Here's an informative article (circa 2007 but still relevant) in Glass Magazine: "Acoustic windshields: The quiet revolution".

[Dirt]

I just replaced my windshield with a pilkington... it's differently shaped than oem. If I would have known, I would have just paid extra for OEM glass. My factory sun shade no longer fits...


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I had the same issue, but it was Pilkington glass replaced with Pilkington glass. I think it has more to do with how the glass was installed (amount of gasket material used and how far the glass is pushed in).

[points]

I see tons of complaints about glass and insurance companies, so everyone would do well to read their policies closely regarding the time frame in which the insurance company will pay for OEM vs LKQ parts. For many companies, OEM is only paid for on vehicles 2 years old or newer unless an endorsement has been purchased to extend that. These terms are very specific and knowing them will make the claims process much easier on all involved. Our extra endorsement can be added that goes out to 6 years but after that you're pretty much stuck with LKQ. Now you may be able to work a deal with the glass installer to pay the difference for an OEM windshield in many circumstances and honestly, its probably cheaper and easier to do that than pay for any extra coverage on your auto policy.

[Race Shooter]

Progressive would only do OEM glass if the car was under 6 months old. At the time, mine was only two months old, which sucked, but at least I got OEM without a hassle on it.

I've also found that some of the smaller shops to be a lot better than companies such as Safelite. I went to one that was recommended by a lot of people, looked like a dive, but they were awesome, did a great job (looked totally factory), cared for the car and were more than happy to make sure I got the exact OEM glass, using my VIN and then sending me a photo of the printing on the glass before my appointment to make sure it matched the factory glass in case they needed to send it back before I got there. You dont get that kind of service from the big companies.

I found that the best thing to do to find a local installer is ask all the local high end dealers who they use. Turns out this guy did all the Lexus, Infinity, BMW, Audi, Mercedes and some other dealers glass work for them. So they knew what they were doing with things like auto wipers and sensors and things like that.

Doesnt help the OP too much, but for others reading this, maybe it will help a bit.

[miztahsparklez]

I had the same issue, but it was Pilkington glass replaced with Pilkington glass. I think it has more to do with how the glass was installed (amount of gasket material used and how far the glass is pushed in).

Ehhh I don't know, the glass looks "flatter". It's like a 2-3" difference in height.


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[clAudi]

I wonder if my early 2010 has acoustic glass. Any downsides on going from non-acoustic to acoustic glass? I have a big chip in my windshield that I'd rather pay to replace than repair, it has 7 years of road rash on it.

Good thread IMO.

I would think not. Just spoke to AoA and a local Audi dealership and they confirmed that my car doesn't come with acoustic glass from factory. I'm going to get my windshield swapped for OEM hopefully Thursday, will update with a detailed write up maybe a picture and everything I learned through this hopefully will be helpful to some on here.


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[Dr GP]

I would think not. Just spoke to AoA and a local Audi dealership and they confirmed that my car doesn't come with acoustic glass from factory. I'm going to get my windshield swapped for OEM hopefully Thursday, will update with a detailed write up maybe a picture and everything I learned through this hopefully will be helpful to some on here.


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My 2011 had it and I would be surprised if my 2010 didn't. BTW, My daughter just got a CPO'd A5 Cab, Had to wait to drive it until it to come back from Safelite due to windshield replaced It has the Audi 4 ring logo on it but does not say "Acoustic'. I just figured that they didn't use acoustic glass on a cab.

[cspcrx]

My windshield just cracked last night. Rock hit it on the freeway and instantly created a 12 in crack. Mine is stamped just like the one above.

I have farmers and will have safelite do the windshield. Already told them I have acoustic glass and rain sensor and want OE/OEM glass. They already said it would have to go for further approval since I have requested OE/OEM glass. I do not want the OEE crap, one chip and it cracks.

Wish me luck!

[B18b1ex]

My windshield just cracked last night. Rock hit it on the freeway and instantly created a 12 in crack. Mine is stamped just like the one above.

I have farmers and will have safelite do the windshield. Already told them I have acoustic glass and rain sensor and want OE/OEM glass. They already said it would have to go for further approval since I have requested OE/OEM glass. I do not want the OEE crap, one chip and it cracks.

Wish me luck!

Mine is still at the dealer as the glass place go a vague answer on the oem, did not reach out and I had to call State Farm and speak with a lead to get results, finally have a letter stating the will pay for oem glass repaired at the dealer. Downside I will have to wait until tues but i'm in. A brand new A5 sportback, so I'll survive.


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[cspcrx]

My appointment is 2:30 tomorrow so I hoping they will have it finalized by then! Rep on the phone didn't raise a stink about it but who knows. A few years ago went through it with our Tacoma. They approved OE/OEM for it so I am hopeful.

[clAudi]

My appointment is 2:30 tomorrow so I hoping they will have it finalized by then! Rep on the phone didn't raise a stink about it but who knows. A few years ago went through it with our Tacoma. They approved OE/OEM for it so I am hopeful.

Make sure to get OEM I had safelite change it yesterday and it made a world of difference... There interior is back to sounding as it should.


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[cspcrx]

That is what I requested which is why it's taking longer. Farmers had to get more approval internally. Safelite has OEM in stock at the location ready to go.

I am also going to ask to see it before installation. Ran into this on the Tacoma, they said they were installing OE/OEM but showed up with OEE glass.

[B18b1ex]

That is what I requested which is why it's taking longer. Farmers had to get more approval internally. Safelite has OEM in stock at the location ready to go.

I am also going to ask to see it before installation. Ran into this on the Tacoma, they said they were installing OE/OEM but showed up with OEE glass.

My car is at the dealer and they will only allow them to install glass they purchased from them so I should be safe.


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[cspcrx]

Safelite got word that Farmers denied the OEM glass request. So I put in another call to farmers but won't hear anything back until Monday at the earliest. I expressed the reason for the OEM request was do to others having issues with safelite OEE glass.

I have a $100 deductible on glass. They said they would cover the OEE glass completely minus my deductible.

If I want OEM/OE it would be my $100 deductible plus $364. So $464 total out of pocket.

I called the dealer the windshield is $545 plus you need a $106 kit for reattaching the rear view mirror and rain sensor. So $651 in parts before labor.

[Arn560]

My 2011 has Acoustic Glass. Recently I had to provide a pic for someone.