Vin plate damage from windshield replacement

[Psignore00]

I haven’t heard of this happening to anyone else, so here we go…

I’m having windshield #4 installed right now, at the collision center owned by the same dealer. They are refusing to proceed with windshield replacement unless I sign off that the VIN plate on the dash will likely be damaged in the removal because there is some adhesive between the VIN plate and windshield.

They said if it comes off, it’s a huge deal that would need to be replaced/reissued by Ineos, would not be drivable until we get it (could takes weeks or more) and would need a sheriff or some other agency present to witness it being affixed.

Both previous windshield replacements were done through the vendor the dealer recommended (before they had their collision center start doing them) and replacement happened on the dealer premesis (I even paid the dealer, not the vendor).

Heading over to the repair shop and then maybe the dealership for some conversations next

 

[Tom109]

Crazy.

Can they cut and leave the adhesive near the VIN plate?

 

[Psignore00]

Service manager took full accountability for their glass vendor, said it wasn’t illegal to drive with the one damaged vin plate, made a call to the repair shop, and they are installing the new windshield now.

He did say if the VIN plate is damaged it will probably take 6 months to get a replacement, but he’d cover having the windshield pulled and put back in if happens.

I know some people complain about service, but there are some really awesome dealers out there too.

 

[Psignore00]

Crazy.

Can they cut and leave the adhesive near the VIN plate?

No, it sounded like the process is running a wire or string between the glass and car to detach the windshield and that’s what’s going to mess it up.

I’ve never replaced a windshield but I imagine it’s similar to removing an emblem from a car with wire/string, which I have done.

 

[abbeyroad]

I've mentioned this in another windshield fun thread, but I auto enthusiast live by the mantra that the less other people mess with my car the better.

Every windshield replacement is yet another added risk factor to having some hack unknowingly/knowingly gouge the paint during removal which leads to hidden rust over time. I've seen countless old Land Cruisers suffer this fate after years of enjoyment only to discover rust bubbles underneath the windshield gasket. This is the body in white, not some bumper or door.

Obviously this VIN plate damage thing can happen, too. Poop happens. Seek protection.