Table of Contents
Replacing the broken windshield might not be that affordable, considering a new windshield could be too costly. Still, what if a more economical yet environmentally friendly alternative could replace it? That’s precisely where second-hand windshields available in the salvage yard will help you. While this alternative to purchasing brand-new auto windshields is impressive, it also has disadvantages.
This blog will discuss the pros and cons of choosing a used windshield, purchasing tips from a salvage yard, and whether this choice is perfect for your car.
Introduction to Used Windshields: Why Consider Them?
Your car’s windshield improves its appearance while protecting you from debris, weather forces, and structural damage. Therefore, you need to replace the broken or cracked windshield.
You may save hundreds of dollars on a replacement compared to buying a new windshield. Salvage yards, or auto recycling facilities, stock repurposed auto glass from totaled or older vehicles. The used windshield can often be in excellent condition and offer functionality at a fraction of the cost.
Benefits of Choosing a Used Windshield
But why would someone opt for a used windshield when a new one is readily available? Here are the key benefits and challenges.
Save money by choosing a used windshield, especially for budget-conscious and environmentally conscious customers. These are the benefits:
1. Major Cost Savings
The price is one of the most compelling reasons to choose a used windshield. New auto windshields can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. A used auto part, like a used auto glass from a salvage yard can cost a fraction of that amount, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
2. Eco-Friendly Option
Reusing materials, including auto glass, is a sustainable choice. By purchasing a used windshield, you’re reducing waste and contributing to environmental conservation. Salvage yards ensure usable parts like windshields don’t end up in landfills, giving them a second life.
3. OEM-Quality Glass
Many salvage yards stock OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) windshields. This implies that the used windshield is of the same quality, often fitting better and performing just as well as new aftermarket options.
4. Availability for Older Vehicles
You may not easily find a new windshield if you have an older or obsolete car. When restoring rare or vintage cars, the salvage yard is often the best place to look for hard-to-find parts, such as used auto glass.
5. Replacement Alternative
Sometimes, finding a used windshield at a local salvage yard is quicker than ordering and shipping a new one. If you’re in a hurry, this can be a convenient solution.
Challenges of Using a Used Windshield
While there are many benefits, it’s essential to understand the potential downsides of choosing a used windshield. Let’s discuss some of the challenges:
1. Quality Issues
Not all used auto glass is the same. Some windshields may look perfect but have minor defects, such as small chips, scratches, or even invisible hairline cracks. These flaws may compromise safety:
Visibility Problems: Scratches or scuffs can distort your view, especially in bright sunlight or at night when the glare becomes more intense.
Structural Weakness: If not noticed, hairline cracks can spread due to temperature changes or road vibrations. This weakens the windshield’s structural integrity and makes it prone to shattering under stress.
Safety Risks: A windshield is a critical barrier in accidents. Damaged glass may fail to protect against debris or an airbag impact during a collision.
For these reasons, a careful and thorough inspection of the used windshield before purchasing is necessary.
2. Compatibility Issues
Manufacturers make windshields for specific makes and models. An error of a few millimeters or less in size or shape may cause:
Leaky Installation: If the used windshield doesn’t fit precisely, the resulting leak will allow water, wind, or dust inside the car’s cabin, which can even cause fogging.
Structural Weakness: An improperly fitted used windshield significantly weakens your car’s structural integrity, especially in rollovers, where the windshield is crucially involved in roof support.
Always check for compatibility by verifying the part number of your windshield against your vehicle specifications.
3. No Warranty or Guarantees
Few salvage yards sell used windshields “as-is.” This means:
No Refunds or Exchanges: Returning this glass may be impossible because it has unapparent damage and does not correctly fit in your window.
If you failed to inspect any component thoroughly and it exhibits defects, you are liable for it, provided it lacks a warranty.
4. Installation Challenges:
Handle used windshields more carefully because old glass is more likely to break. Any negligence in handling may lead to cracks or further breakage. Most auto repair shops avoid installing used auto glass, citing liability concerns or charging more. Improperly installed windshields can leak, cause wind noise, or compromise the structural integrity, which affects safety.
5. Concealed Safety Dangers
Even if a used windshield appears flawless, it may conceal hidden flaws like stress fractures within the glass or previously repaired chips. These weaknesses mean the glass will crack under stress or at extreme temperatures. Deteriorated safety features, like laminated glass, may decrease the protection offered during a collision.
A close examination and proper installation are paramount when purchasing a used windshield for safety and long-term functionality.
Tips for Buying a Used Windshield From a Salvage Yard
If you have decided that a used windshield is the best choice for you, follow these tips to ensure you get a quality product and a favorable deal:
1. Researching the Salvage Yard
Find a reputable salvage yard specializing in auto parts with favorable reviews. Not all salvage yards are of the same quality. A well-known salvage yard is more likely to stock quality used auto glass.
2. Closely Inspect the Windshield
Before buying, inspect the windshield thoroughly for chips, cracks, and scratches. Run your hands over the windshield to find imperfections you cannot visually detect. Only buy a windshield that meets your standards.
3. Compatibility Check
Bring along information about your car’s make, model, and year. At the salvage yard, verify that the windshield part number matches your vehicle.
4. Inquire About the Origin
Knowledge of the windshield’s origin would be advantageous. Understanding its history can provide insight into its condition, as numerous salvage yards extract components from wrecked vehicles.
5. Seek OEM Glass
If possible, seek an OEM windshield over aftermarket glass. Specifically designed for your vehicle’s make and model, OEM windshields ensure a perfect fit and reliable performance.
6. Inspect the Salvage Yard’s Storage Conditions
Proper storage of windshields is crucial to prevent damage. Look for a salvage yard that keeps its used auto glass in clean, dry conditions away from direct sunlight or extreme weather.
7. Negotiate the Price
Don’t be afraid to haggle! Salvage yards often allow price negotiation, especially if buying multiple parts. Aim for a fair deal that reflects the condition of the windshield.
8. Have it Professionally Installed
Have your second-hand windshield installed by a professional. Professional installation is the only way to ensure safety and avoid leaks or wind noise.
9. Check Return Policies
Salvage yards sometimes offer limited return policies on parts. Despite being rare for used auto glass, it doesn’t hurt to ask about fitment or quality.
Is a Used Windshield the Right Choice for Your Vehicle?
Deciding whether to go for a used windshield depends on several factors, including your budget, the condition of the glass, and your vehicle’s requirements. Here’s a quick guide to help you make that decision:
When to Consider Buying Used Windshields:
- You are on a tight budget and cannot afford a new windshield.
- You are restoring an older or vintage car with hard-to-find parts.
- You have found a good-quality used auto glass that fits well.
- You are dealing with a reputable salvage yard.
When Not to Buy a Used Windshield:
- For instance, the glass has cracks, chips, or scratches.
- Your car needs a specialty windshield with unique features (for example, heated glass or ADAS calibration).
- You are concerned about the absence of warranties or guarantees.
- You need help finding a professional installer for the windshield you are using.
If you find a high-quality windshield and can locate a reliable installer, this could be a cost-effective alternative. Nevertheless, carefully consider the pros and cons before deciding if it suits your situation.
Conclusion
Choosing a used windshield from a salvage yard can help you save money but also present challenges at other stages. Use the above ideas to help you decide properly and get a high-quality, safe windscreen.
Whether repairing a daily driver or restoring a classic car, most owners find used auto glass an easy, affordable alternative. However, it is essential to weigh the cost savings against the issue of safety and reliability while driving.
Are you still trying to figure it out?
Frequently Asked Questions
A used windshield is an automotive glass that has been previously installed in another vehicle. Salvage yards usually obtain and resell it as a replacement for other cars.
Yes, as long as the windshield is crack-free, chip-free, scratch-free, and installed professionally, a used windshield can be a safe and cost-effective option.
The primary reasons are cost savings, environmental advantages, or the inability to find a new windshield for older or vintage cars.
Depending on the condition and source of the used auto glass, you can save 50% to 70% of the price of a new windshield.
Not necessarily. While many used windshields come from totaled vehicles, some are removed from retired cars for other reasons, such as mechanical failure.
A salvage yard disassembles old, totaled, or broken vehicles and sells good windshields, auto glasses, and other items to customers.
Yes, many salvage yards do carry OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) windshields, providing you with identical quality as you had from your car when it left the factory.
Reputable salvage yards check their used windshields for cracks, chips, and scratches before reselling. Always inspect the glass yourself before buying.
High-quality salvage yards store used car glass in clean, dry conditions to prevent damage. Always check the yard’s storage practices before buying.
Most salvage yards sell used windshields as-is, with no warranties or guarantees. Some may offer limited return policies or quality assurances—be sure to inquire.
Check the windshield for cracks, chips, scratches, or any sign of repair. Choose the right size and shape for your car and windshield specifications.
Bring your car’s make, model, year, and VIN to the salvage yard. This information helps the used auto glass store match the windshield on sale to your car.
The source of the windshield, whether OEM or aftermarket, and whether it is available for returns or exchanges, depends on the condition and the storage procedure when bringing windshields back into the salvage yard.
If the glass doesn’t match your vehicle, risks include hidden damage (like small cracks or chips), lack of warranties, and potential fitment issues.
The same manufacturer as the original produces OEM windshields, guaranteeing a perfect fit and high quality. Third-party manufacturers produce aftermarket windshields, which may vary in quality and fitment.
DIY installation is possible, but we do not recommend it. Incorrect installation can jeopardize safety and lead to problems such as leaks, wind noise, or poor structural support. Always hire a professional.
Some repair shops will not install used auto glass due to liability. Call ahead to confirm that your preferred shop will install a used windshield.
Minor chips or scratches may grow over time, compromising visibility and safety. It is best to avoid purchasing a windshield that shows damage.
1 to 2 hours—Professional installation removes the old windshield, prepares the frame, and securely fits the replacement glass.
If your vehicle has ADAS (e.g., lane-keeping assist or automatic braking), you’ll need a windshield compatible with those systems. Ensure the used windshield is the correct type and have it recalibrated after installation.
