Rear Window Replacement

Hey guys, I recently had a buddy throw a generator through my back window, and I had to replace the entire three panel window. I took it to a good glass shop, and they installed the new window in about 1.5 hours and charged $500 plus tax. When I picked it up, I noticed that the rubber gasket trimming the edges, was not even close to flush. The rubber is roughly 1/8" off the truck body on the left and top, and close to 1/4" on the bottom and right. The installer said they would re-do the work, and just to monitor it for a week or two to make sure that it doesn't get better before re-doing it.

I will upload pics as soon as I can...but please tell me this is just a bad install and not how my truck will look from now on.

Has anyone else dealt with this problem? Also, looking for suggestions on what to do if they screw it up again...

 

I did, i had mine replaced with an after market one after some body work. it did not fit well with the gasket. Shop put in OEM window and fit perfect..

 

Aftermarket encapsulated windows are hit or miss on fitment for pretty much every brand of truck. I'd recommend OEM as if the encapsulated molding doesn't sit flush on the outside, there's a chance that there's not good contact on the inside of the glass to the body which could lead to water leaks. The installer is thinking that sitting in the sun/heat may allow the molding to soften and eventually go flush, but odds aren't good of that happening.

(my remarks are based on doing auto glass work for the past 12 years and specializing in Toyotas)

 

Thanks guys. Here’s the pics.

 

@HoulaHauler this is exactly my issue. They are going to reinstall in a week. If that one doesn’t sit right then they will do an OEM one and I’ll get to argue about who should pay for it.

 

There shouldn't be an argument to begin with. I would insist on an OEM Window to begin with. It is your truck, you get to choose.

 

If he's going thru insurance, they can deny OEM and have aftermarket installed. However, if it can be proven that aftermarket doesn't fit, then he can ask for OEM. Thankfully glass claims fall under comprehensive coverage and shouldn't affect his premiums.

If he's paying out of pocket, then he can't *demand* an OEM be installed and expect the glass shop to absorb the cost difference. If he wants OEM, they'll make him pay for OEM.

 

I have always insisted on OEM with my insurance.... They have always paid. Even then I understand they could resist and that is fine. I'd work it out with the installer to pay the difference if needed. I never said that the glass shop should absorb the difference. The insurance company should or he should. It is still his choice either way.

See the above pictures for why. Aftermarket usually sucks.