With over 290,000 new and used windshields, window glass, and side mirrors in stock, you will have no problem finding your ideal replacement parts at BE FORWARD. Our list of car glass parts comprises mainly of offerings from Japanese manufacturers like Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Suzuki, Daihatsu, Subaru, and Mitsubishi; however, we also carry parts for the most popular international car brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Hyundai, and more.

Car Windshield Overview

It is easy to look past the importance of your car's windshields, window glass, and side mirrors. If working as intended, these glass parts should provide you with an unobstructed view of the road from all sides, while all but the mirrors also protect you from the outside elements.

Additionally, the front windshield is actually a structural element that adds strength to the roof and reduces the likelihood of a total roof collapse in the event of a crash, as well as allowing the front airbags to push against it and inflate properly towards the front seat occupants.

Once it is time to buy replacements, you can save money by searching our listings for affordable new and used windshields, window glass, and side mirrors.

Types of Windshields and Side Window Glass

Windshields and windows in modern cars are typically made from one of two types of safety glass: laminated glass or tempered glass. They differ in strength and shatter properties, and as such are used for different parts of the car.

Laminated Glass

Laminated glass windshields are exceptionally strong and comprise two layers of glass that sandwich a piece of plastic. This type of glass is usually used for the front windshield and will stay intact in the case of an accident or when flying debris like rocks and sticks cause the windshield to shatter.

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is often used for rear windshields and side windows. It is stronger and safer than normal glass, shattering into round pieces rather than shards. It is made by heating glass to a high temperature, then rapidly cooling it.

Car Glass Maintenance

Regularly maintaining the glass parts on your car can keep them in optimal condition. Here are some simple steps you can take.

Consider the Outside Elements

Parking under a tree to keep your car cool during hot months or dry during a storm may not always be the best decision. Loose branches can damage the windshield, sunroof, or other exterior parts. Also, be careful with exposing your car to extreme temperature changes, which can cause the windshield to crack.

Inspect Your Windshield, Windows, and Side Mirrors

It is crucial that you repair minor damage to your car's glass parts before it is necessary to buy replacements. Inspect the windshields, windows, and side mirrors from time to time to look for small nicks, chips, or cracks, and take your vehicle to a trusted automobile glass repair shop if you find any damage that you cannot repair yourself.

Clean Your Car's Glass Parts with the Right Products

Don't just use any rag and cleaning fluid that you have lying around your home. Use a designated car glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to prevent leaving any streaks or tiny scratches on your car's glass parts that can impair the driver's line of sight.

Regularly Replace the Windshield Wipers

The windshield wipers are meant to make it easier, not harder, to see through the windshields. Make sure that the rubber strips are not worn down, exposing the metal blade underneath, and that the wiper is clean of any debris. Either of these can causes scratches on the windshields.

Also, it is important to top up the windshield washer reservoir so that you are prepared whenever it is necessary to clean the windshields while you are driving.

Fixing a Damaged Windshield

If you have a damaged windshield, you have the option of either repairing or replacing it, depending on the severity of the damage. Here are some simple considerations on which option to take.

Repairing a Windshield

Windshield repair is usually the cheaper option of the two, but should generally only be considered if the chip is smaller than 40mm and not too deep. Since the windshield repair might leave behind imperfections, it is also recommended that repairs only be carried out on chips that are not in the driver's direct field of vision. Finally, you should consider replacing the windshield if there are more than two or three such chips or cracks, as it is not certain if the windshield has been structurally compromised.

If you have a DIY windshield repair kit, you do not need to bring your car into the local auto shop when you find a minor crack. Most repair kits use a resin glass fluid in a syringe to inject into the cracks, with some even including a pit filler to seal the repair with a hard finish.

Replacing a Windshield

As mentioned previously, tempered glass shatters into round pieces rather than holding together like laminated glass. This usually means that any damage to a windshield made of tempered glass would require a replacement. Laminated glass windshields also need to be replaced if the cracks and chips are large, numerous, deep, or located in a spot that directly affects the driver's vision of the road ahead.

While it is often possible to replace parts yourself as they wear out, improperly installing a windshield can cause it to pop out from its frame and shatter. Because of this, we recommend that you leave windshield replacements to a trusted automobile professional.

When you take your car into the shop for a windshield replacement, the mechanic will cover your car with a protective layer before removing the windshield wipers, broken windshield, and glass. The windshield and frame are then prepared with a coat of primer, followed by installation and drying.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Windshield?

Compared to a windshield repair kit, which typically costs under $30 USD, a replacement windshield can range anywhere from $100 to $1,000 USD depending on the type of vehicle, not including the cost of installing it.

Because there are sensors that sit behind modern windshields, such as those used by the automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring systems, replacing the windshield might also require a recalibration by a trained mechanic. This can increase the price of replacing the windshield.

Here at BE FORWARD, we stock affordable windshields, window glass, and side mirrors for your specific make, model, and year — all in great condition. Save money on your replacement parts by shopping with us!