NEED OPINION- C63 windsheild

[brutus1966]

Hello All. New to this forum. Picked up my 2009 c63 2 weeks ago. It was a MB regional car with 100 miles. It has a very strange watermark on the windshield that can be seen only in certain lighting conditions. off to the passenger side and not really bothersome. My dilemma is that they will replace windshield with factory original if I wish. Should I do it? will it be the same as in the factory assembly line? what do you think? please tell me pros and cons? what would you do in my shoes?

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[nrgy]

If it's bothersome, then I say do it. I would have no worries having the windshield replaced by the dealership. Just think how many windshields are replaced due to rock chips. It happens all the time, and I've had it done numerous times. Looked like it came from the factory, and this was on a Porsche and Bimmer with the antenna built into the windshield.

[haxorwear]

Do it. You bought a car with brand new unmarred glass. If there is something on there that doesn't come off right away, it could be anythiing. It could be that a big bird doo was there for days baking in the sun and permanently etched your glass for all you know.

Don't hesitate.

[brutus1966]

So you both think the job won't cause any rattles, loose trim, etc... if done properly?

It is one of those things I can imagine looking back later on and saying "why didn't I leave it alone"?

Any other comments would be appreciated.

[kjb55]

I don't mean to make your decision more difficult - but I've seen many of windshields installed at the factory (the process alone is worth keeping yours as is) and tons of butchered jobs done by installers.

The side rails run the length of the car - clips will undoubtedly be broken, let alone the rails being bent or twisted. I wouldn't allow the work to begin unless they have replacement rails and clips on hand.

Will they remove all traces of old sealant? A truly professional installer will because adding new sealant over the old makes a huge mess and the windshield won't set completely as new. If they remove the sealant - I would be standing there to make sure that the paint and body work isn't damaged. Once the windshield is in place, moisture will settle for extended periods - rust will result - but it will be a long time down the road before that rust surfaces.

Now, to the interior. Will they remove the side pillars to make sure that the glue settles as it should. What about the headliner for the header of the windshield. Do you have rain sensing wipers? If so - will the new windshield include a new sensing unit? If not - how will they transfer the old one. How about the rear view mirror - not sure if that is attached to the glass or not - if it is, do they have a template to use to affix it so that it is aligned properly.

Additional thoughts - all the cowling removal at the firewall, plus the wiper arms to facilitate the removal of the old windshield. Will they remove the hood to protect it from the running of the piano wire necessary to cut through the old glue?

I'll stop before I think of more.

[brutus1966]

Thanks for the very well thought out answer. It is exactly these types of comments that I need to hear. Maybe I will take a picture (if possible) and post. Problem is that it can only be seen in certain lighting conditions and may be very difficult to capture an image of it.

You brought out so many valid points that I did not even think of.

ANY OTHERS OUT THERE WANT TO GIVE ME YOUR TWO CENTS???

Much appreciated.

Would love to hear from MB mechanics, body men, installers, etc...

[Strafe1]

This is not a difficult task so don't sweat it so much. An experienced, careful technician can install an identical piece of glass quite easily. My C55 glass was replaced and I watched in awe how the tech disassembled, installed, and reassembled the parts as needed. The glass is identical to original install (same manufacturer). Change the glass.

[NORTH 44 C55]

Originally Posted by Strafe1

This is not a difficult task so don't sweat it so much. An experienced, careful technician can install an identical piece of glass quite easily. My C55 glass was replaced and I watched in awe how the tech disassembled, installed, and reassembled the parts as needed. The glass is identical to original install (same manufacturer). Change the glass.

+1

[peet]

+2

It's done daily hundreds of thousands of times worldwide. Have it done - get the piece of mind or you'll be staring at it for the rest of the windows life.

It's literally some clips, some caulk-like material, back together, temporary tape done. Most are done in parking lots and you'd never know. Make sure it's done right and to your satisfaction and insist on a redo if you see anything.

P

[Stiggs]

Its under warranty right? Just do it. You know everytime you drive it you'll be looking for that mark. It will haunt you forever. Don't be such a worry wort and get it done. You'll be happier without that mark....correct?

[Deeroff]

If you have glass insurance with no deductable, perhaps that is the way to go if the dealer is not being cooperative (or check with another dealer - they LOVE warranty claims)

[Kar don]

Water mark on glass? Why dont you use some glass polish... you know marks can be polished out of glass right? If its not chipped or cracked there is no need to replace it. Did you try all means to polish the glass?

I recommend Zaino Z12 glass polish, or try some vinegar first.