Windshield needed
 

What are my options for a new windshield? Mine has the rain sensor & darkness sensor.

You have a few options...To see your otions and to get BMW part numbers, go to RealOEM.com, plug in your car - but don't use VIN, use model, engine, and production month.

Look under "Vehicle Trim" and "Glazing"

you want the part number with Rain sensor = yes.

BUT, you might consider getting the "Climate Comfort" windshield (Climate Comfort = yes). This windshield has some extra layers in the glass to significantly cut down on glare and greenhouse-type heat that is generated when the car is in the sun...

If I ever need a windshield, I am getting a climate comfort.

Any decent window installer - even safe-lite can get these windshields for you.

I replaced mine with the rain sensor clip in summer 2020.

The BMW part was something like $800, uninstalled. I got mine replaced with a Pilkington, who I think are an OEM, for $310 installed. It was done in my driveway by an indy installer, recommended by a friend. Safelite and the nearest glass place the dealer uses were $50-80 more and I would have had to take the X5 to them.

I used safe-lite recently and although they did an OK job on the windshield itself, they clocked the drivers-side wiper arm incorrectly on the reinstall. I didn't notice it until I needed the wipers a few days later so maybe check this first when you get the car back from whomever you choose.

Unfortunately I took a massive rock from a truck right in the middle of the new windshield recently. I'll definitely look into the climate comfort glass - thanks for the tipper.

Worth a read for those interested in E53 Comfort Glass...You need to be pretty particular when ordering it and should inspect it before the installer installs it...or at least I would...

https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...tuation-2.html

Good point. My indy installer botched that wiper's position on mine too. Fortunately, I was there and noticed it. The installer had something like 25 years experience and still didn't do it correctly. Totally satisfied with his work, other than that small glitch.

I recommend taking a photo of the wiper positions before getting the windshield replaced, then compare the photo to when you pick it up.

Also, make sure to test the new windshield is waterproof before you hit your first rain storm!