F430 Windshield Replacement...

It seems I've developed some pretty decent rock chips (at least 2 and maybe 3 or 4) that will definitely turn to cracks over time in my F430 Coupe's windshield. Has anyone had to replace their F430 windshield? What was the cost (parts & labor)? Any recommendations as far as having a dealer do it versus a windshield repair shop? I'm asking about the dealer vs. repair shop because I live at least 120 miles one way from Ferrari of Scottsdale...and I haven't heard the best things about their service. So, if I can get it done locally, that'd probably be less painful.

 

Personally, I would go with a windshield repair shop. That is all they do. At a dealership, you are going to get a mechanic to try to replace your windshield. Having worked at a glass shop for two years in a previous life, I can tell you that there are a lot of "tricks" that may not be readily obvious.

 

I had the same problem on a BMW M3. The dealer quoted me $1200 (a few years ago) and the local shop that does windshields did a great job for $300.

Sorry I do not have ferrari experience to share with you. My concern would be the aluminum for a shop. It maybe more difficult. Other manufacturers have alum cars like Jaguar or Audi. You might want to check with them to see who they use or how they do it. The real expense might be getting the proper windshield, fit or curvature. Ususally manufacturers will make a special order one for a customer. maybe someone on the forum knows the company that made these windshields for Ferrari.

Wish I could be more help.

Lee

 

Get the checkbook out. It's in't sweet!

Glass is $2,400-$2,800.00.

Have no idea about installation.

Ouch!

 

That is why you should have glass coverage in your insurance.

 

The dealerships just call a windshield shop out to fix it, and then tack on some profit for themselves.

 

unless the chips really bother you, leave them be or unless there's a safety issue. one less thing to have someone else touch the car, the better.

 

Steve,

There's an easy way out of this situation.

Sell me your 430 and then you will not have to worry about the windshield issues!

 

Well, the two worst ones are right in front of my eyes and one of them has already begun to radiate crack lines which appear to be worsening. So, while I'd love to just leave it be, my sense of safety is greater which means it'll have to be fixed.

 

I'd sell it to you buy you wouldn't like my price...

 

What about those chip filler places -- they're mobile, and are worth a shot.

Worst case sceanario you could just end up replacing your windshield as you had planned, and best case scensrio, you save $2-3K..

My personal experience with them has been mixed...once really good, (I couldn't tell where the repair was)...and once really bad..(most could not tell, but the glass was wavy in the repaired area, and it bucked the hell outta me)..

my .02

 

Now you sound like my wife!

An old case in Massachusetts where an old guy was after a young woman but in a polite way. She sued him for invasion of privacy, and the judge threw the case out saying that "There's no harm in asking"!

You just have to ask!!

 

I'd second Prancing's comment - I recently had two chips repaired *beautifully* on my 360.

YMMV of course, and in fairness neither of them had any "crazing" like you describe, but I reckon it's gotta be worth a try.....

Good luck,
Ian

 

Yes, try this way first. I did it before on my LR windshield and the results were very good. Saves you a lot of trouble and ofcourse money.