Windshield scratches question
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 361
Likes: 34
From: Central MA
Windshield scratches question
My brand new daily driver (Rav4) which I picked up Jan 2nd in the evening has about 15 scratch marks mostly vertical in direction on the windshield. We noticed these the very next morning. Did not use any window scrapers etc. It appears that perhaps when someone removed the plastic film they may have used a box cutter or sharp object. I went back to the dealership and they said their windshield repair guy would look at it. I really don't want them to replace the windshield as feel there is the potential for leaks etc. If they offer to repair the scratches thru buffing/polishing or resin filling is this really acceptable? My first feeling is to demand they refund my money or replace the car. Thanks for any advice!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2007
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From: BEST Corn-Nation
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I wouldn't have any issues with them replacing the windshield. I've had mine done before and have had zero problems with it. It actually needs another one since it's getting the little rock chips in it all over the place again.
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Don't expect the dealership to refund your money or replace the car...that's absurd. They might replace the windshield (which you said you don't want) or they might be able to repair it like how it's done with small chips and cracks. Those are likely your two choices, but don't expect to get a full refund or another new car just because of some scratches on the windshield.
It would be a miracle if they agreed to replace the car. No real reason to not have them replace the windshield - it's done all the time for cracks, etc. and a reputable shop can do it with no issues afterwards. Your dealer may subcontract the work anyway to another vendor.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 2,922
Likes: 219
From: West Branch, MI
Why worry about leaks? Windshield guys know their stuff these days. I can't recall the last time I heard of anyone having a windshield leak. Roof leaks? yes. Side window leaks? yes. Windshield leaks? Not unless they were cracked. If you know of any, you know more than I do. I wouldn't worry at all about just having it replaced.
Last edited by CactusCat; Jan 3, 2016 at 11:48 PM.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,355
Likes: 139
From: Surprise AZ
Originally Posted by mstromquist
I wouldn't have any issues with them replacing the windshield. I've had mine done before and have had zero problems with it. It actually needs another one since it's getting the little rock chips in it all over the place again.
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 3,532
Likes: 79
From: pueblo co
they can't not use a resin like they use to fill chip's in a windshield due to the fact that in order for the resin to be used it has to have something to fill...I own a glass shop and we do this daily on car windshield's most likely they will use what we call a rare earth cerium oxide glass polish which they will have to apply the cerium oxide to the glass with a special wheel and it will distort your glass esp. if they are in sight of your view when you drive, some people it can even make them sick...if they are that bad i would have them replace your windshield with new...after all its a daily and your gonna need one sooner or later
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Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 361
Likes: 34
From: Central MA
We did have a ice/sleet/snow storm which left about 4 inches of icy mix which you could walk on without sinking in so maybe the lot guy just hacked at it or something. The random but mostly vertical scratches is odd as usually when you scrape, it is side to side. But in all my years in New England I have never scratched my windshields.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 361
Likes: 34
From: Central MA
Thanks to everyone for their input, knowledge and advice. I feel much better now about the situation. Replacing the windshield vs repair is what I will have them do. You all are the best! 
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 3,498
Likes: 680
From: The beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast!!
An OEM (GM) HUD windshield is north of $1000 installed. A non-HUD windshield is $250-$300 or so. Aftermarket HUD windshields are available for $600-$700. Many owners report a clear HUD image with non-HUD windshields, so there's lots of options.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 361
Likes: 34
From: Central MA
Don't expect the dealership to refund your money or replace the car...that's absurd. They might replace the windshield (which you said you don't want) or they might be able to repair it like how it's done with small chips and cracks. Those are likely your two choices, but don't expect to get a full refund or another new car just because of some scratches on the windshield.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 7,207
Likes: 311
From: Lino Lakes MN
Went to the dealership Mon. and asked for windshield replacement and not a buff out repair. They were still non-committal so I told them I would return the car. They then agreed to replace the windshield asking if I wanted OEM, which of course I do. This dealer has a 48hr return policy on new cars if not satisfied.