OEM vs. Aftermarket Glass: Which Should You Choose in Calgary?

Calgary is adorned with breathtaking views, but they pose unique problems for drivers. From the panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains to the heartbeat of the city in the downtown core, the glass on your vehicle is put to test by Calgary’s ever-changing weather. Whether it’s summer’s seam-cracking hailstorms or gravel flying off Deerfoot Trail, Calgary drivers are constantly searching for the best windshield replacement Calgary has to offer to ensure safety and optimal visibility year-round.

When the unfortunate chip or crack appears on your windshield, decision time arrives: Do you go for an aftermarket alternative or OEM glass? Here is everything you need to know as a driver residing in Calgary.

What is the Difference?

OEM Glass is produced by the company that supplied the glass for your vehicle, so it comes with all the features—the fit, thickness, tint, and quality are all exactly the same as the original. You get the same glass your vehicle had when it left the factory.

Aftermarket Glass is produced by third-party manufacturers and intended to function as a substitute for the original windshield. Although these alternatives meet safety standards, they might have slight differences in thickness, fit, or even the tint of the glass.

The Calgary Factor

Our city's unique driving conditions make your choice especially important. Calgary's weather is nothing short of unpredictable, ranging from frostbite inducing -30°C frigid winter days to sweltering summer heat and everything in between. This unique alpine weather puts extreme stress on vehicle glass which, coupled with gravel debris from winter road maintenance, creates a danger for your windshield.

The Case for OEM Glass

If you are driving a newer or luxury vehicle through Calgary's streets, OEM glass offers perfect compatibility with existing safety systems. Vehicles with modern features such as Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) like lane departure warnings or automatic braking have a very acute reliance on precisely calibrated windshields. OEM manufactured glass meets the standards required by these systems to function perfectly. 

OEM glass also provides peace of mind. The fit is guaranteed to be perfect, eliminating concerns about wind noise or water leaks during those famous Calgary downpours or spring melts.

The Aftermarket Advantage

For many Calgary drivers, especially those with older vehicles or tighter budgets, aftermarket glass presents compelling benefits. Quality aftermarket options meet all safety standards while typically costing 40-60% less than OEM alternatives.

Aftermarket glass often comes with comparable or even longer warranties than OEM options. For vehicles that regularly travel gravel roads outside the city or commute daily on the Deerfoot, where road debris is common, this can provide excellent value.

Making Your Choice

Consider these factors when deciding:

• Vehicle age and value

• Budget constraints

• How long you plan to keep your car

• Whether your vehicle has advanced safety systems

No matter which option you choose, proper installation is crucial. Professional installers at cardetailcalgary.com understand the unique challenges Calgary drivers face and ensure your new windshield stands up to our city's demanding conditions.

The Bottom Line

Both OEM and aftermarket glass can serve Calgary drivers well when properly installed. OEM offers perfect compatibility and original quality, while quality aftermarket options provide cost savings without compromising safety.

Remember: The most important factor is working with trusted professionals who understand Calgary's unique driving environment and can guide you to the best solution for your specific vehicle and needs.

When that inevitable crack appears after a Chinook-induced temperature swing or gravel encounter on the highway, knowing your options helps you make the best choice for your car and budget.