David M

Are there any special things that a non-dealer has to know to change our windshields? The radar and wiper boxes concern me some. Do we have some kind of special windshield, too? Do I need to take it to a dealer or is it just an ordinary windshield?

Thanks.

gpb

If you have rain sensing wipers, look out. My car had a non-Lexus windshield installed, and the rain sensing wipers no longer worked.
I took it to the dealer, and they installed some kind of gasket like thing on the windshield between the glass and the sensor. It didn't cost much, and the rain sensing function works again. However, it doesn't work as WELL as it did with the factory glass.

V8_Fan

That "gasket-looking" thing is the rain sensing tape. As I've gone through 3 windshields in 3 yrs on my LX, I can tell you it's not expensive...about $28, IIRC. That is the secret to the automatic wipers functioning. The OEM glass is thicker/quieter, and water repellent (although you can fix that w/ Rain-X). My insurance company will pay for the OEM glass in full, so that's what I get. LS windshield is pricey...around $1700 in AZ.

DDLexus

Also, the UL versions have thicker glass. I know this is true for the side windows... just guessing that the windshield is also a higher grade and probably not something that is available as an aftermarket replacement part. It would be worthwhile to see if there are part numbers stamped on your existing Lexus windshield... compare others on this forum.

I6turbo

iTrader: (1)

I don't like Rain-X because it seems to cause the starburst effect on rainy nights when lights shine on the windshield. Same thing with "silicone rubber" wiper blades.

There's a PPG product called Aquapel that is WAAAAY more durable than Rain-X and IMO works a lot better. Rain-X used to be much better (than it is today) back before they had to take the original acid out of it several years ago due to health and safety reasons.