Another OEM or after market replacement windscreen ?

[Sh4dowCr4ft]

First-time poster, long-time lurker

Around two months ago, my S204 C180's windscreen was hit by a stone while driving on the A406. At the time, there was no visible damage and thought nothing of it, but by the next morning, a 3-inch crack had appeared.

I contacted Aviva, who referred me to National Windscreens for a replacement. I specifically requested either genuine MB glass or Pilkington as an acceptable aftermarket option—and I was happy to pay the price difference for MB glass if needed.

However, the insurance company has dragged things out for over 8 weeks and ultimately declined to approve the OEM screen. Their reasoning is:
(a) They only authorise aftermarket glass, claiming it’s "as good as OEM," and
(b) Due to the age of the vehicle, they won’t make exceptions.

I even provided them with a quote from the dealer—just £235 + VAT—but they still refused.

The NW local branch I've been dealing with has been excellent. They've been honest that they can't guarantee a Pilkington screen if I proceed, as the replacement might come from various suppliers including Fuyao, XYG,Shatterproof or Pilkington.

I just don’t get why the insurer is refusing to approve the OEM at that price, given the reasonable cost and that it is likely cheaper than the aftermarket version. Whats the opinion on Fuyao, XFG etc ? I'm aware that Fuyao is an OE for BMW but should I go ahead with their aftermarket option, or pay out-of-pocket and get a dealer-installed OEM windscreen through an independent?

 

[SL222]

If it helps I've been through a fair few windscreens and as long as they get the sensors, cameras etc lined up correctly, I've never been able to tell the difference between the OEM and the aftermarket.

 

[Sh4dowCr4ft]

If it helps I've been through a fair few windscreens and as long as they get the sensors, cameras etc lined up correctly, I've never been able to tell the difference between the OEM and the aftermarket.

Thanks for the reply and your own experience with aftermarket windscreens.

This is the first time I've ever had a stone chip crack a windscreen and my old S202 seemed to take them like a champ so its a little frustating.

On the S204, the windscreen, and front passenger/drivers are all MB Pilkington, while the rear glass is all MB AGC Automotive, so I've got no issue with going with either Pilkington or AGC.