I need to have my windshield replaced and have called places that are quoting about $800 less than the mini dealership. Has anyone had problems with replacing their windshield by a non-mini repair place? My gut tells me to do it at the dealership......

 

$800 less?? For a windshield replacement? You using diamond for the glass?? That's an outrageous price...

 

Aftermarket windscreens can vary in price from what I have read on NAM from around $300 on up. The OEM Sekurit glass is thicker but a softer glass according to my SA. PPG has had numerous good ratings. Our insurer uses Safelite, so I guess that'll be my direction at such time. When you do replace with an aftermarket windshield make sure they have Mini experience and secure the "A" pillars properly. I found this link about the installation of the trim that caught my eye for future reference. Hope this helps

 

buzzsaw is right and there are many posts about windscreen replacements done wrong. No matter who does it, I'd cover the dash with towels and water test the whole seal as soon as they say you can. Getting water behind, in or under the dash is very bad. Buyer Beware!

 

I replaced a windshield once, never bothered Mini 'cause I'm sure the stealer farms it out. Local glass shop $288 up to $525. Same glass different coatings. 288 a/c tint, 525 a/c tint, low-e, auto wiper sensor.