FCA/Stellantis Glass Replacement Requirements

Details Posted on 23 August 2016 | Share: | Print

The role of the windshield is a lot more complex than simply allowing a view of the road ahead. It is considered a structural part of the vehicle as it contributes to the strength of the roof and A-pillars. The windshield helps to manage collision energy and has become an integral part of several advanced safety systems.

It is commonly asked, "What is required when replacing a windshield?" With this question in mind, we will be presenting a series of articles that highlight some of the requirements from the various OEMs. As always, it is important to read through each vehicle-specific procedure to ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

Let’s see what FCA/Stellantis has to say for the 2016-2022 model years.

• Urethane adhesives are applied as a system. Use glass cleaner, glass prep solvent, glass primer, PVC (vinyl) primer and pinch weld (fence) primer provided by the adhesive manufacturer. If not, structural integrity could be compromised.
• Chrysler does not recommend glass adhesive by brand. Technicians should review product labels and technical data sheets, and use only adhesives that their manufactures warrant will restore a vehicle to the requirements of FMVSS 212. Technicians should also insure that primers and cleaners are compatible with the particular adhesive used.
• Be sure to refer to the urethane manufacturer's directions for curing time specifications, and do not use adhesive after its expiration date.
• The humidity sensor bracket cannot be serviced separately from the windshield. If the sensor bracket becomes damaged, the windshield will need to be replaced.
• Be sure to review vehicle-specific notes, warnings, and cautions. For example, the use of ammonia-based glass cleaner is recommend for most, but some will recommend heptane for degreasing.

Other special cautions include, some vehicles maybe equipped with a forward-facing camera. If so, there is a calibration procedure available in the service manual that must be followed. Also, certain vehicles may be equipped with a light rain sensor on the windshield. Certain sensors may require replacement of a one-time use SilGel adhesive membrane.

FCA/Stellantis states that various systems could be affected if Mopar genuine parts are not used. Per the FCA/Stellantis Authentic Mopar® Glass Replacement position statement, “Authentic Mopar Glass characteristics include and are not limited to: Works with various advanced driver safety system electrical components, including cameras, rain sensors, antennae and heating elements. Aftermarket glass may not support the function of complex electrical components and could interfere with your vehicle’s electronic systems, resulting in unintended functions or disabling the system function.”

To access vehicle-specific FCA/Stellantis windshield removal and installation procedures go to: stellantisiop.com

You can easily search for "windshield" in the top right textbox or go to: Service Information ➤ 23 Body ➤ Stationary Glass

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:

• ADAS, Calibration, And Scanning Article Hotspot
• Collision Information Website Access: FCA/Stellantis
• Stationary Glass Pinchweld Preparation - New Panel
• Step-By-Step: Accessing FCA/Stellantis Repair Information

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