It's official, I'm going to be selling my Sidewalk. I had posted a feeler in the marketplace a little while back, and will post an official FS thread very soon.

The reason for this post, is to get your opinion on this matter.

A week ago, driving up from Austin to Dallas, it all happened in slow motion

A good size rock came up and hit my windshield about an inch below the top of the glass on the passenger side.

Shouldn't have been an issue because the chip was only about a dime size starburst. I planned to call the glass repair guy the next day (as it happened late afternoon) and had done so. I had an appt for him to come to me around 4pm. So, to kill some time, I went to the movies.

I come out to my car, got in, and noticed that the little dime size star had grown a "J"!!! I guess I had parked directly facing the sun, and the cold weather/ direct sunlight had caused it to grow. When the glass guy came, he said he couldn't do anything about it.

Now it's about 8 inches in length.

My question is this...do I spend the 400-600 (it has rain sensor) to have it fixed before I sell it, or do I just take that amount off the top of what I'm selling the car for??? I don't have pics of it yet as it's been raining here in Austin and well...Carmen is filthy. It's not too bad for the driver, as it's on the passenger side, but it's still visible from the drivers seat.

What do you guys think?

 

Fix it.

Having that damage just dropped the value of the car by over a grand to a potential buyer.

 

So does that mean I should not have even posted this thread as it will take away from the value of the car? Even if I fix it, will a potential buyer not like the fact that it has a brand new windshield?

 

I would think that potential buyers would like the fact that the damage was repaired (new windshield) rather than looking at it as something they'd have to fix if they bought the car. It's not like bodywork, where you kind of wonder what's under that fresh paint.

 

Just tell a potential buyer the old windshield collected a rock. You'll make them very happy you fixed a problem they won't have to deal with.

If I were a buyer, and saw a messed up windshield, I'd pass. Plenty of other Mini's on the market.

 

I agree that it should be fixed....I know I have passed up some good deals before due to a busted windshield or other items that could have been repaired easily prior to the sale.

 

You're probably right. Like you said...it's not like some bodywork...new glass is just that, new glass.

I was thinking that fixing was the best route to take...but I came here to get the thoughts of fellow enthusiasts.

Indeed, plenty of other minis out there...but only one or two (if that) pre-owned Sidewalks.

 

I hope you find someone who appreciates the special package. The average buyer will not be so well informed.

 

Fix it.

 

Anyone have an opinion on which glass to use to replace?

Actual Mini glass from the dealer?

Or aftermarket glass?

From what I understand, the only difference is the aftermarket glass does not have the MINI logo. Any other differences I should be aware of? (other than the obvious price difference)

 

I so drooled over this MINI when you first posted the pics. I hope it finds a good home. It's quite the little number.

I'd fix the window too.

 

i'd fix it, but there's larger lesson to be learned: all MINI owners should carry in their boot a cheapy windshield fix it kit one can buy at any major auto supply store for around $8. As long as the original pit or star isn't bigger than a nickle, they can prevent small pits cracks and stars from developing into larger cracks and stars requiring extensive windshield repair or replacement. I used 2 of them on my S's original windscreen and they both did the job fabulously!!

Just be careful when U pull the applicator off that the resin doesnt get on yr bonnet stripes because it will melt them.

 

Thanks for the tips! Though I don't have stripes, I'm sure that tip will be useful to someone else!