jmayzurk

Hi,

I just bought a '97 993TT. It's a fantastic car, and overall, it's in great condition. One problem is that the windshield is fairly pitted--enough so that driving into the sun creates a big visibility problem.

For replacement, should I stick with OEM glass (e.g., from a dealer) or are the aftermarket versions OK? Any concerns about noise/sealing problems? I've heard about the squeaking problem, and although I don't believe my car has it now, I want to make sure I don't get it with a new windshield.

Finally, any recommendations for installers in the Los Angeles area (preferably west side) would be appreciated.

Thanks,

-Jeff

Bradford

I replaced mine twice last year. It was $500 from Safelite (800)800-2727. Good luck

TTJunkie

Jeff:

There are a lot of things that can go wrong with a windshield install; inner seal, outer seal, VIN plate, antenna connection, power booster, rearview mirror mounting, A-pillar trim, dash squeaks, etc. It won't cost much more to get it done at the dealership, and you'll never regret having it done right.

Ric

Kigiin

If you do a search on the 993 forum you will see the overwhelming consensus is non OEM glass. OEM glass is at least double the price and it pits just like the one you have now. I just replaced mine with Safelite and couldn't be more pleased... and only $600. The installer does a lot of 993s so there was no worry there either.

Rob

Brad '95 C4

I had OEM glass installed by local independent glass shop known for careful prep work. It was covered by State Farm and I just paid the $500 deductible. Full price parts & labor was around $1200.

pstoppani

Just had mine replaced: $650. High quality aftermarket; made in Germany.

Tour18

Brad, that is a sweet looker. The look is soooo crisp yet soooo smooth. It must be the dark wheels really set off the sexy curves... SWEEEEEEEEET.

Brad '95 C4

tour18:

Thanks for the kudos. The most fun is hitting the deserted canyon roads and making the suspension work!

rocket930

be careful if they damage the paint under gasket .
it will cause rust.
go to dealer have it done.
if you can check the paint before they install

Brad '95 C4

I watched the entire install and installer scraped away all old gasket material and black sealant. Then, on any areas where paint was scraped away there is a black primer which is applied, then a black silicone is applied. It is quite an involved process and the installer must be conscientious about proper prepping of materials.

jmayzurk

Thanks for all the responses.

Based on the feedback I've gotten from several of you here, and after talking to a couple of installers, I've decided to go with an independent glass installer.

My decision basically came down to the realization that the dealer techs are most likely less experienced with windshield installation than a glass specialist. I'm sure the number of windshield replacements they do (assuming they don't farm out the work to a third party) represents a tiny fraction of the installations done by a specialist.

Thanks to everyone who replied.

-Jeff

JasonAndreas

The specialists are the guys you have to watch out for. Most of them think they know better than Porsche and ignore the proper procedure. You end up with a squeaking windshield or 2 years later you discover rust coming out from under the seal. Make sure the installer uses primer on the body, the proper 2-part adhesive on the windshield AND insulates the gap between the windshield and the body.