“What Is the Difference Between OEM Glass and Aftermarket Glass?”
Summary:
Mike explains that OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass comes direct from the vehicle manufacturer. It is the same exact piece of glass that was in the vehicle when it was built, it carries the manufacturer's logo stamped in the corner or center of the glass, such as Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, or GM, and it offers precise fitment. Aftermarket glass does not carry the vehicle manufacturer's logo; it only shows the logo of the company that actually made the glass. Its main advantage is lower cost, though Mike notes there can be quality differences between the two in some cases. His personal choice for his own vehicle is aftermarket, mainly for cost, but he leaves that decision to each customer.
Answer:
The difference with OEM glass is that it is direct from the manufacturer. It is the same exact piece of glass that was inside your vehicle when it was made. It has a logo stamped in the corner or in the center of the glass that states the manufacturer, whether it is Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, or GM, and it gives you precise fitment. As far as aftermarket goes, aftermarket has no vehicle manufacturer logo. It just has a logo of the manufacturer who actually made the glass. The big thing with aftermarket is lower cost. And that is really as far as aftermarket goes, although in some cases there could be quality differences between the two. My personal opinion is that I go with aftermarket for cost reasons in my personal vehicle versus OEM, but it is to each their own. Some customers want the exact same piece the car came with, and some are more focused on price, and either choice is fine.
