I know there are multiple posts regarding windshield replacement and the concerns about the correct hardware (rivets) and moldings being used. I need a new windshield in our 2002 LX 470 and its not covered by insurance; I will be adding glass coverage based on the quotes I've received. Scottsdale Lexus referred me to Penske glass (also in Scottsdale) and they told me it would be $1500 for the OEM glass and approx $614 for and OEM equivalent. These prices include necessary hardware and moldings. I called Safelite for a comparison and was quoted $228.95. I have read that the replacement on the 100 series can be difficult, especially for someone who hasn't done one before. I'm fine with OEM equivalent glass and am more concerned with the installation so there are no leaks or wind noise down the road. Can someone recommend a shop in Scottsdale or Phoenix that they've used and had a good experience with? Any help is appreciated. Thanks
Windshield Replacement 2002 LX470 Scottsdale, AZ
- Thread starter Keats
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I am getting my windshield replaced in the next week or two. I was quoted similar prices (without garnish) here in San Diego from a quality independent (that does work for high end dealerships) vs Safelite. Safelite was 200-300 cheaper with either OEM or aftermarket glass.
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Update: I had scheduled my windshield to be replaced by a company that also serves Camelback Toyota and was hoping things would go well. The installer showed up and started on the removal of the existing windshield. It had been replaced by the previous owner and the glass was Pilkington but the installer had installed the A pillar moldings with screws rather than the OEM rivets; thankfully they only used 3 per side and did not enlarge the holes for the rivets. The installer cut the molding on the driver's side and had no replacement with him, he was also laying his tools on the top of the truck with nothing to protect the truck. I could feel my blood pressure rising and he asked if I wanted him to continue since the molding was now cut and they seemed to really be on there. I saw this as my window to tell him to pack his stuff and leave and that I didn't care for his methods. I got a chance to see how the sausage gets made and it wasn't pretty. I am a mechanic (aircraft) myself and expect anybody that considers themselves a professional at their craft to exercise a bit more care and precision in the performance of their job. I then called Penske Rapid Glass Repair which handles the glass work for Lexus of Chandler as well as Scottsdale Lexus. I had purchased new moldings for the A pillars, top of the windshield, and the rivets prior to them coming to my house to change out the windshield. Isaiah from Penske Rapid Repair arrived in a large Dodge Sprinter van, not a small pickup like the other guy. He wore a uniform, wore gloves while he worked, did not lay tools on the vehicle except on the floor mat. He had all of the tools needed, including the rivet gun to install the rivets for the A pillar moldings. He commented that there had been too much sealant used on the previous installation which accounted for the difficulty in removing the moldings and that there was a small amount of surface rust on the pinch weld at the top of the windshield that was a result of tooling used to remove the windshield previously. He removed it and applied a black colored primer over it to seal it as well as filling the 3 screw holes on each side (not OEM rivet holes) with sealant after priming them too. He installed the windshield with the new moldings and I couldn't be happier with the end result. I know it can be a little unnerving to have someone watching you while you do your job but he took the time to explain the process and common mistakes or shortcuts that many installers make or take when changing a windshield. The cost with Penske was approximately $250, which was about $25 less than the other company. I would recommend Penske after this experience and plan on having them do a chip repair on the windshield in my 2010 Tacoma. As stated earlier, the windshield removed was Pilkington; the replacement was FYG. From what I've read, the quality of the glass today can vary even with OEM. The law of averages says that this won't be the last windshield I have installed in this truck, but this one looks good and there is no wind noise and hopefully no leaks. Thanks again to this forum for valuable info along with other members posting their experiences. Tom
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Thanks for the feedback. Sorry to hear about your first experience. Glad it worked out in the end. I am having mine replaced soon and am very concerned about having it done right.
Is the FYG Chinese glass? What is your opinion of the quality? One installer I spoke with said it was actually pretty good.
Is the FYG Chinese glass? What is your opinion of the quality? One installer I spoke with said it was actually pretty good.
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- #6
FYG glass is Chinese and I was a little skeptical at first but the quality seems to be pretty good. Good luck with your replacement.
I'm dreading having to find a reputable shop to get this done on my 01 LC in Houston. I stopped by one last week as the estimator was looking at the truck the installer spotted it from inside the shop and he came right out and flat out said he would not replace the windshield on this truck or the LX 470. He said its one hell of an install and he is not willing to do it. He did mention the rivets and the molding and also mentioned the rear view mirror being almost welded and impossible to remove. He told me to let whoever installs it know to remove the mirror while the glass is off and on the ground. He seemed really honest and professional I was a little let down that he wouldn't do it. Anyone know a place in Houston that is willing to do it? Also what items should I purchase ahead of time before hand? the A pillar trim and what else?
Thanks,
Thanks,
I am having the side and top molding, as well as both garnish replaced. Whatever insurance doesn't cover I will be buying out of pocket. I am also buying the rivets from Toyota to make sure the installer uses the correct ones. From what I understand the garnish is reusable, but mine were glued in during a botched previous install 