Yes. Safelite offers OEM-grade (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass for windshield replacements when it is available for your vehicle, location, and insurance coverage. If OEM glass isn’t available, Safelite typically uses OE-equivalent or aftermarket glass that meets OEM specifications.
Below is a detailed guide to how Safelite handles OEM options, how you can pursue OEM glass, and what to expect during the process, including insurance considerations and installation steps.
Safelite's approach to OEM glass
Safelite positions its service around the vehicle and the customer’s insurance arrangements. The company can source OEM-grade glass for many makes and models through its supplier network, but availability varies by vehicle and region. If OEM glass is not available for a given car, Safelite will offer OE-equivalent or aftermarket glass that meets the same safety specifications.
Options you may encounter include:
- OEM-grade glass (Original Equipment Manufacturer) — the same type of glass originally installed on your vehicle, offered when available for your model.
- OE-equivalent glass — glass that matches OEM specifications but may come from different manufacturers; used when OEM glass isn’t accessible.
- Aftermarket glass meeting or exceeding OEM specs — non-OEM glass that still conforms to safety standards and the required tolerances.
Availability varies by model, region, and insurance. Always confirm with Safelite which glass type will be used for your vehicle before service.
How to request OEM glass
To pursue OEM-grade glass, follow these steps to maximize your chances and clarity about what will be used.
Steps you might take to pursue OEM glass include:
- Contact Safelite’s customer service or book online and explicitly request OEM-grade glass, confirming its availability for your vehicle.
- Provide complete vehicle details (make, model, year) and your VIN when asked.
- Check with your insurer to determine whether OEM glass is required or covered under your policy.
- If OEM glass isn’t available for your car, ask for OE-equivalent glass that matches OEM specs and request a written quote.
- Confirm scheduling, price, lead time, and any warranties or guarantees on the glass type to be installed.
By communicating clearly with Safelite and your insurer and by obtaining written confirmation of the glass type, you maximize the chance of OEM glass being used when available.
Insurance considerations and cost
Insurance coverage for OEM glass varies by policy and carrier. Some policies explicitly cover OEM or OE-equivalent glass, while others may require you to pay out-of-pocket for OEM glass or to choose an OE-equivalent option. Availability and pricing can also differ by vehicle and location.
- Many insurers will cover OEM or OE-equivalent glass if the policy permits it and if the vehicle requires it, but always verify with your insurer.
- If OEM glass isn’t available, Safelite will typically offer an OE-equivalent option that matches OEM specs and safety requirements.
- OEM glass can be more expensive and may involve longer lead times in some cases; discuss timelines and cost with Safelite before proceeding.
- For vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), ensure any required recalibration is included in the service plan and can be completed after installation.
Always verify coverage, pricing, and the exact glass type with both your insurer and Safelite before proceeding with the replacement.
Installation expectations and warranty
Safelite technicians follow standard windshield replacement procedures, including proper cleaning, sealing, and testing for leaks. For modern vehicles with ADAS, Safelite can arrange recalibration after installation to ensure systems like lane-keep assist and automatic braking function correctly. Safelite typically provides a warranty on workmanship, and terms can vary by location and service type; confirm the specifics when you book.
Understanding the glass type chosen (OEM, OE-equivalent, or aftermarket) helps set expectations for warranty coverage and future service needs.
Summary
Safelite does offer OEM-grade glass where available, but availability is not guaranteed for every vehicle or location. If OEM glass cannot be sourced, the company typically offers OE-equivalent or aftermarket glass that meets the same specifications. Customers should discuss their needs with Safelite and their insurer, confirm the exact glass type in writing, consider ADAS recalibration requirements, and review warranty terms before proceeding. A clear, written confirmation helps ensure the service meets your expectations and policy requirements.