Volvo releases windshield position statement
Volvo has released a position statement that requires all windshield replacements to be performed according to Volvo standards, including the use of only Volvo Genuine Windshields and adhesives.
“The Volvo windshield is an integral part of our vehicles,” Volvo says in the statement. “Not only does it provide for an undistorted view, but also contributes to the vehicle’s structural performance.”
All windshield replacements are required to be performed at authorized Volvo retailers or certified collision centers, it adds.
“Due to many variants of aftermarket windshields available, it cannot be verified these windshields are being manufactured to exact Volvo specifications,” the statement says. “When windshield replacement is required, Volvo requires using only Volvo Genuine Windshield and installation materials, so as not to compromise the structural performance, nor any Volvo safety systems that are dependent on the windshield, such as optical, distance and radar-based systems.”
It continues to say that proper installation of a Volvo Genuine Windshield through a Volvo Center ensures proper recalibration and operation of windshield dependent safety systems, and provides correct structural integrity in the event of a collision. Volvo-specific adhesives also will ensure proper bonding of the windshield to the vehicle’s body providing the same strength qualities as if assembled at the factory, providing a minimal safe drive-away time once installed.
Volvo states that its windshields are manufactured to the same specifications as the windshield originally installed in the vehicle at time of assembly to ensure perfect fit, exact tolerances, and maximum precision.
“Aftermarket alternatives may not meet these exact specifications and may affect the car’s passive safety technology, active safety functions as well as the overall rigidness of the body,” the statement says.
The windshield is a part of the vehicle’s autonomous safety system, the statement says. The Active Safety Domain Master (ASDM) is located inside the upper edge of the windshield. The camera and radar in the ASDM are used in conjunction with other systems to properly enable safety functions, it says. It adds that these systems are sensitive to optical and geometric tolerances, such as glass thickness and windshield materials.
Vehicle safety systems require vehicle specific programming, which is based on several variants that demand extremely stringent optical tolerances to function as intended, the statement says. Using aftermarket variants that don’t meet Volvo Cars’ stringent specifications may compromise the function of said system.
Volvo says that vehicles with multi-dimensional heads-up displays (HUD) are engineered to help ensure clear viewing of the projected image.
“The Manufacturing process for these windshields differ from a non-HUD windshields,” the statement says. “Installing the wrong windshield can result in redundant images of projected information and compromise the proper functionality of the heads-up display.”
Calibration of the camera and radar unit (ASDM) is required after windshield replacement. Volvo systems, such as VIDA, are required to ensure correct functionality. Aftermarket services may find it difficult to properly recalibrate stated systems.
Utilizing only genuine Volvo Car parts will ensure vehicle safety, performance and residual value, the statement says.
“In the event of a collision, Volvo Car USA recommends that all repairs are performed by a Volvo Certified Technician through a Volvo Certified Collision Center using only genuine Volvo Car parts,” the statement says.
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Photo courtesy of Volvo