Technology Enhancements Increase Windhshield Costs
Vehicle glass replacement costs are increasing as more technology, such as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are being incorporated into windshields.
The windshield is a critical safety component of a vehicle, protecting passengers in the event of a rollover and aiding in proper airbag deployment.
What has changed in recent years is that windshields are becoming more integrated with the rest of the vehicle, incorporating features designed to aid with safety, comfort, and style.
Some examples of windshield enhancements and connectivity to other features are offered by Mark Klein, strategic account manager for Safelite AutoGlass.
“One important development has been the integration of adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning into windshields. These – and many similar features – fit into the category of advanced driver assistance systems, a growing trend among automakers to increase safety and assist the driver,” said Klein. “This technology uses a combination of sensors, such as radar and LIDAR, and cameras to create a ‘circle of safety’ around the vehicle. Because the ADAS systems are often located at the upper, inner surface of the windshield, many automakers state that the camera systems must be recalibrated after a windshield replacement.”
How common is the need for recalibration? At Safelite AutoGlass, windshields requiring a recalibration make up a little less than 5 percent of the windshields it replaces. “But, this number has grown significantly, though, from 0.05 percent in 2009, to 0.54 percent in 2013, to nearly 4 percent in 2015. According to Specialty Analytics, the ADAS market is expected to increase at a compound annual growth rate of 23 percent. This means nearly 10 percent of vehicles may require recalibration by 2019 and 90 percent by 2029,” said Klein. “As the percentage of vehicles using ADAS technology increases, the need for recalibration will make a significant impact on vehicle glass service and pricing.”
Some leading glass companies have begun alerting customers whose vehicle may require recalibration. “Still, it’s a good idea to ask when scheduling service or when the technician arrives to do the work. Some car dealerships have the equipment required to conduct a recalibration, while some vehicle glass companies are beginning to implement recalibration services for convenient, one-stop shopping,” said Klein.
ADAS windshields cost substantially more than their predecessors. Not only is there a cost associated with recalibrations, but the actual windshields cost more to manufacture due to their complexity. “Auto insurers typically view the recalibration as a part of the windshield replacement claim,” said Klein.
Windshield recycling makes windshield replacement a more sustainable solution. “Because windshields are constructed of two pieces of glass and a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer for safety, it is difficult to separate and recycle all of the components. While some companies have recycled only the glass portions for years, a handful are now recycling the PVB. Products made from recycled windshields include fiberglass insulation, carpet backing, and paint. When choosing a glass shop, it’s important to ask if the company recycles the entire windshield,” said Klein.
