E70 Windshield Replacement

[scchang]

Need to replace 2010 E70 windshield. I want the work done by a Certified BMW Collision Center as I've had a bad experience in the past with an insurance company network shop. That's how I became familiar with the BMW replacement procedure which is surprisingly (to me) precise. Collision Center cost for replacement is $1,800. Insurance will pay $1,000. Insurance is discounting labor to $40/hr and the "like kind and quality glass" is around $250.

I've spoken to two Certified BMW Collision Centers and both have said that I should pay out of pocket to get the work done there and go to my insurance company for reimbursement. Both said that they haven't heard of a customer not being fully reimbursed.

Just wondering if anyone has gone this route and what the results have been.

Thanks for any info.

[wsmeyer]

A few years back I had to replace the windshield on the wife's 550. I can't remember the exact numbers but I believe insurance first said $800 and they gave me a list of shops they worked with that would do it for that price. I countered that the windshield was a structural part and that none of the shops could assure me that the glass they used was as strong as OEM. That got them to up it to $1200. Then I called local mobile installers, first one had no problem getting OEM glass but the cost of glass would be dealer parts counter price. Second guy had an account at the local dealership and his cost on the glass was significantly less. When all was said and done it cost me a little less than $300 out of pocket for OEM glass and a new rain sensor which is also a necessity as you cannot reapply them.

I know that wasn't exactly what you were asking but hopefully it helps some.

[Ozer]

Whats the point of insurance if they dont pay for the whole thing? Try pushing them harder, talk to a higher up if needed.

[jfoj]

The $1800 price probably means you have the Heads Up Display.

Cars with Heads Up Display have special glass that the center plastic part sandwiched between the glass layers is tapered. If a standard windshield is installed then the HUD will likely have a double image.

If your car has a HUD, I would want the proper Pilkington glass.

[scchang]

Originally Posted by jfoj

The $1800 price probably means you have the Heads Up Display.

No HUD.

Windshield BMW, w/climate cntrl w/o head-up display 51317211909 $691
Labor 5.4 hr at $82/hr $442
Rain Sensor $219
Code and Initialize Rain Sensor $195
Glass Kit $82
Tax $97
Miscellaneous Parts make up the balance.

[scchang]

Originally Posted by Ozer

Whats the point of insurance if they dont pay for the whole thing? Try pushing them harder, talk to a higher up if needed.

Agreed, but they limit labor costs by quoting the "industry standard" which is backed by data that the insurance company compiles and files with the California Dept of Insurance.

The glass is "like kind and quality" (made by Safelite). The insurance company and Safelite conveniently determine what constitutes "like kind and quality".

So, legally they are conforming to the law although everyone knows that there's no way the same job is being done/parts being used for $400 vs. $1,800