Hey all,
My 2008 Saturn Aura needs a windshield replacement and I am getting quotes all over the board ($275-$402). One shop told me the factory installs the windshield with an acoustic layer and most replacement shops will install just regular glass minus that feature, who knows what that is and please educate us. Also, is the stereo antennae in the rear windshield?
Thanks

 

I would assume that an acoustic layer is included to reduce the amount of sound that reaches the cabin. It is probably sandwiched between the two layers of glass and resides where the anti-shatter layer is inserted to keep the windshield from throwing thousands of fragments at occupants when it shatters.

If you think that any additional noise past what you had before your current windshield was damaged, then try to source OEM glass from GM or from a junkyard. Usually the junkyard will insist on removing the glass and readying it for pickup. If you go this route, inspect it very carefully. Any installer that agrees to install it will not warrant it against breakage or damage as it is not a part supplied by them and it's history is unknown. They should however offer a warranty on the installation with respect to leaks, etc. Be 100% sure you get in writing on a quote what is covered and what is not covered under the warranty following installation and for how long.

If the above is not logistically possible and the glass is not available from GM, then you have but one choice, which is aftermarket glass. I don't know the manufacturers nor their reputations nor which replacement chains use which glass. I would think the only major difference might be surface hardness and resistance to chipping and scarring meaning visability remains good longer. But that is a guess and I am talking out my ***. Research it on the internet. I'm sure there is a fanatical group of windshield sensitive vehicle owners, especially those for antique vehicles so I am sure the information is out there.

As for the antenna, I would think most of the vehicles came standard with serious XM antennas mounted on the top rear of the vehicle. I have always assumed that they operate as combination antennas but I do not know that for a fact nor am I inclined to look it up. This information is also likely out on the internet.

Not trying to avoid answering your questions directly, but I simply don't know the answers and at this very moment I don't have the time to look them up.

 

07-08 Auras had two laminated layers (which was the addition of the acoustical one) in the windscreen.
My '08 was built in October of '07 and has acoustic glass...I had to get the windshield replaced in December of '09 and my local glass shop tempe here http://www.suntecautoglass.com/tempe...ss_repair.html place had the correct acoustic glass without requesting anything special the next morning of my claim. I believe it was valued at around $400 or so but don't remember for sure and lucky for me I have $0 deductible on glass!!

 

Based on the previous response, that is probably why your quotes are all over the place. Confirm with a higher priced estimates exactly which class you are getting. They may lie to you. Ask them if it is OEM glass and look up the part number on GMpartsdirect.co no m . Then ask them what part number it is. Don't give it to them to confirm make them confirm it to you. This should separate the boys from the men (colloquialism, not trying to be sexist)