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Does Safelite use OEM or aftermarket glass?

Safelite, a leading provider of automotive glass repair and replacement services, primarily uses original equipment manufacturer (OEM) glass for their vehicle windshield and window replacements. OEM glass is manufactured by the same companies that produced the original glass installed in the vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit and matching quality.


Safelite's Glass Replacement Approach


Safelite's commitment to using OEM glass is a key part of their service offering. The company recognizes the importance of maintaining the original integrity and safety features of a vehicle's glass components. By using OEM glass, Safelite ensures that the replacement glass meets the same standards and specifications as the original, providing customers with a seamless and reliable repair experience.


In some cases, Safelite may use aftermarket glass, which is produced by third-party manufacturers, but this is typically only when OEM glass is not available or cost-prohibitive. Aftermarket glass is required to meet certain safety and quality standards, but it may not always perfectly match the original glass in terms of fit, appearance, or performance.


Benefits of OEM Glass



  • Precise Fit: OEM glass is designed to perfectly match the vehicle's original glass components, ensuring a secure and seamless installation.

  • Matching Quality: OEM glass is manufactured to the same high standards as the original, maintaining the vehicle's safety features and overall integrity.

  • Warranty Coverage: Safelite's use of OEM glass often allows for extended warranty coverage, providing customers with added peace of mind.


By prioritizing the use of OEM glass, Safelite demonstrates its commitment to providing high-quality and reliable automotive glass repair and replacement services to its customers.

What type of glass does Safelite use?


Safelite uses both Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and Original Equipment Equivalent (OEE) quality glass. They use OEE glass, which is made to the same standards but by a different manufacturer than the one that originally produced the glass for the vehicle, and also use OEM glass, which is made by the same company that originally made the windshield. The specific type of glass used may depend on the vehicle, the customer's insurance policy, and their request, as Safelite works with large glass manufacturers to supply its products. 
Types of glass Safelite uses

  • OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): This is the same glass that came with the vehicle from the factory, made by the same manufacturer that the car company uses. 
  • OEE (Original Equipment Equivalent): This glass is made by a different manufacturer but meets the same quality and safety standards as OEM glass. Safelite buys its glass from major manufacturers that supply the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). 

How to get OEM glass
  • Ask for it: You can request OEM glass when you schedule your appointment. 
  • Check with your insurer: Your insurance policy may cover the cost of OEM glass, or there may be a price difference you need to pay. 
  • Be prepared to pay more: If OEM glass isn't covered, you may have to pay the difference out-of-pocket. 



Is there a difference between OEM glass and aftermarket glass?


OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass is often referred to as dealer or logo glass and features the automaker's logo. Aftermarket glass has the same standards and specs as OEM but doesn't feature the automaker's logo. When your policyholder needs a new windshield, they have options.



Does Safelite repair with OEM glass?


At Safelite®, we only use auto glass manufactured to the same standard as your original glass, (known as OEM or OEE standard).



Does autoglass use OEM glass?


At Autoglass®, we only use glass manufactured to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) standards, whether sourced from original equipment manufacturers or other suppliers, ensuring that the glass we fit is as good as the original piece of glass we are replacing. Autoglass® has over 1,000 technicians across the UK.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.