Identifying Options for Windshields

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class forward facing cameras.

Automotive windshields have changed a lot since the start of the automotive industry. In the past, there were some variations in windshields, but nothing like todays windshields. One particular model of vehicle can have dozens of different options when it comes to ordering a windshield. Let’s take a look at some of these options, and how to identify them.

Options on a modern windshield can range from different frits, tints, shading, acoustic properties, mounts for forward-facing cameras, and more. When examining the windshield for replacement, look closely at the frit of the windshield. Here you may find different manufacturer logos, such as the OEM name or an image, that will need to be matched. Logos may indicate that the windshield has acoustic or sound deadening built-in. You may also find a heater grid, located at the bottom of the windshield, under the wiper blades. This is to keep snow and ice from building up on the wiper blades.

Near the rearview mirror area of the windshield look for camera lenses, rain sensors, or light sensors. The windshield generally will be shipped with the camera bracket and rearview mirror button already installed on the windshield. Something else to take note of, some OEMs do not service windshield mounted camera brackets separate from the windshield. Make sure to use caution when removing the forward facing camera from the bracket. If the bracket is damaged, the windshield will need to be replaced, if not available separately.

One more thing that is becoming common is heads-up-display (HUD). If the vehicle is equipped with a HUD, look for the projector on the top of the dash on the driver’s side. Another HUD indicator is that there may be an area on the driver’s side windshield that has a blurry appearance.

When ordering windshields, you will likely need to be able to identify all of these options to get the correct replacement windshield. Make sure to consult the OEM procedures, as many of the options may require calibrations after the windshield is installed.

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


Related I-CAR Courses

  • Repairer Driven News: Rivian Updates Door Handle Procedure Sunday, 4 February 2035

    Repairer Driven News (RDN) released an article featuring an updated Rivian procedure.

  • 2025 SkillsUSA National Competition Results Monday, 30 June 2025

    The 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference took place on June 26, 2025. Every year I-CAR sends volunteers (virtually in 2021) to judge the collision repair technology competition....

  • Ford/Lincoln Rocker Panel Reinforcement Sectioning Friday, 27 June 2025

    We are often asked, “Can I section this panel?” Let’s take a look at Ford/Lincoln vehicles and sectioning the rocker panel reinforcement.

  • Back-To-Basics: Backside Panel Refinish And Edging Thursday, 26 June 2025

    Sometimes, going back to the basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. When repairing and refinishing, you might need to refinish the panel's backside and edges.

  • Hyundai Position Statement: Pre- And Post-Repair System Scanning - UPDATE Monday, 23 June 2025

    Hyundai released an updated position statement relating to pre- and post-repair system scanning.

  • App-Based Connected Services Considerations Tuesday, 17 June 2025

    Have you had an experience where the vehicle notified the owner that it was being moved while it was in your repair facility? App-based connected services are available from many vehicle makers and...

  • Digital Key Considerations Tuesday, 17 June 2025

    The intermingling of technology and automobiles continues, with digital key offerings from most vehicle makers. Digital keys utilize smartphone technology to expand vehicle access and owner...

  • Back-To-Basics: Tire Tread Pattern Wednesday, 11 June 2025

    Sometimes going back-to-basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. Let’s see how to identify tire tread patterns and their repair considerations.

  • Corrosion Protection Guidelines: Ford/Lincoln - UPDATE Tuesday, 10 June 2025

    A key factor in collision repair is making long-lasting repairs. When a vehicle is repaired, many areas of corrosion protection are disturbed. This creates corrosion hot spots that, left untreated,...

  • Rivian Restraints Wiring Thursday, 5 June 2025

    The question is often asked, "Can supplemental restraints system wiring be repaired?" The answer is: it depends on the vehicle maker. Let's take a look at Rivian's position on this subject.