BMW 5 Series Windscreen Replacement

BMW 5 Series windscreen replacement FAQ

Everything you need to know for a successful BMW 5 Series windscreen replacement simple and online booking

Do you use Original Equipment (OE) branded glass?

We use OEM-Quality, OEE-certified glass from the same manufacturers that supply vehicle factories (such as Pilkington and Saint-Gobain). This glass meets all the safety and technical standards of your original windscreen—the only difference is the Original Equipment (OE) logo stamp.

We can also assist with an OE (branded) quote through the dealership, but our online prices default to OEM/OEE options.

What is ADAS

ADAS stands for Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems. These are technologies integrated into modern vehicles to enhance safety and comfort. They help drivers by alerting them to potential dangers and, when necessary, activating safeguards or temporarily taking control of the vehicle.

Examples of ADAS include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and road sign recognition, among many others.

What is ADAS windscreen calibration?

ADAS windscreen calibration ensures the cameras and sensors related to the windscreen work correctly after a replacement. We calibrate all types of equipment to restore manufacturer-specified performance and safety.

Some ADAS functions require special conditions to calibrate in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations (for example, specific targets, lighting, road markings, or speeds).

For these cases, you may need to visit the nearest workshop to ensure precise alignment of the new windscreen and correct calibration of the system.

Does my windscreen have a rain sensor?

Many modern cars are equipped with a rain sensor, which automatically activates the wipers when it detects water on the windscreen. If you are unsure if you have one, do not worry!

When you select your vehicle make and model on our website form, we’ll ask you about a rain sensor if it’s applicable to your windscreen. We’ll also provide an illustrative guide to help you determine this if you’re still unsure.

How do I know if my windscreen has a camera?

What is an ADAS camera?

An ADAS camera (Advanced Driver-Assistance System camera) is a visible camera unit mounted behind or near the rear-view mirror on your windscreen. It plays a crucial role in operating various safety and driver assistance systems in your vehicle.

These systems can include lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking — all of which rely on accurate visual data from the camera to function properly.

What is acoustic glass, and how can I tell if my car has it?

Acoustic glass is a type of laminated car glass designed to reduce noise from wind, traffic, and the environment, creating a quieter and more comfortable driving experience. It’s commonly fitted to mid- and high-end vehicles for improved cabin insulation.

To check if your vehicle has acoustic glass, look for the word “Acoustic” printed or etched in one of the corners of the glass — typically near the manufacturer’s logo or glass markings.

If you’re unsure or can’t find the marking, don’t worry. When you enter your vehicle details during booking, our system and technicians will verify whether your car is equipped with acoustic glass to ensure the correct replacement is ordered.

How do I know if my car has heated glass?

Generally, you can see thin orange wires embedded in the rear windscreen — these are the heating elements. On the front windscreen, the wires are usually much finer and less visible. In most cases, you’ll also find a button on your dashboard or instrument panel to activate the heated windscreen.

When you go through our booking flow, you’ll find a simple visual guide that helps you confirm whether your car model has a heated windscreen or not.

What is a coated windscreen?

You can identify a solar-coated windscreen by its distinctive purple-like shade. Premium vehicle models such as Audi, Mercedes, or Tesla often feature solar-coated windscreens for enhanced cabin comfort.

An alternative to solar coating is a coated windscreen, which includes an additional plastic layer designed to improve heat reflection and reduce interior temperature.

Colour tone in car glass

Approximately 90% of windscreens have a subtle green colour tone. If your front windscreen has a colour tone, your side windows usually do as well.

How to check your glass tint

1. Roll the side window halfway down.
2. Place half a sheet of white paper behind the side window.
3. Look through the glass at the paper and note any colour tone.

If the paper appears slightly green or blue through the side window, your front and rear windscreens will typically have the same colour tone.

Exceptions

There are cases where the windscreen and other glass are not identical in colour tone. This commonly occurs when the rear windscreen and door glass have privacy glass, which can appear dark green or moderately black.