500E windshields - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Jim's500E · #1 08-20-2002, 09:10 AM

We need a few and the local dealers are saying the windshields only come thru with the VIN window in the lower left corner. 500Es that I have and seen have no VIN window because the VIN plate is on the A-pillar. Any suggestions? BTW, it has to be a SIGLA, not that PPG junk. Thanx

mbdoc · #2 08-20-2002, 12:42 PM

Only PPG is available here thru MB dealers! & they do have the window. However at our dealer we had special paint to black-in the window on early cars!!

placo1 · #3 08-20-2002, 03:44 PM

Hmmm thats interesting.

I just replaced my windshield yesterday and I did notice it was a PPG that came from the dealership. It did however have the MB emblem above the PPG.

I just strolled down to the garage to take a look and even before installation I don't remember seeing the square box opening for the serial number. It looks great by the way.

Is the PPG glass inferior? Why? Does it crack or chip easier. I'd hate to have to change it again after a couple of years.

Jim's500E · #4 08-20-2002, 05:26 PM

Well, depends on who you talk to on PPG quality...I don't care for them because its not German-made and the ones I've had on other cars were soft and didn't hold up well. Its OK for my truck though.

I think I'll contact some dealers overseas to see what the deal is on their glass and if I can get one. I bet this has to do with the Daimler/Chrysler merger BS. Thanx much for the quick replies guys. I'll let you know how I make out.

mbdoc · #5 08-20-2002, 05:54 PM

Since 1992 when the W140 chassis came MB switched over to Domestic glass(PPG) due to SHIPPING damage & costs. PPG even delivers the glass to MB dealers when they order from their MB depot.
IT is all about $$$$ MB part number 124-670-33-01 is not too $$$ out of Europe! List price their is around $225.

d2bernhard · #6 08-21-2002, 02:15 AM

My dealer refered me to the shop they send all their business to. They carry, in order of cost (for W124 '92 wagon):
PPG OEM
PPG OE (with star)
German OEM (I got this one for the price of the PPG OEM, as they were out of stock)
German OE (with star)
I recall there were 2 choices of German OE, and about $1000 for the most expensive.

I am happy after 2 years.

I recently replaced in my W124 commuter, and got PPG OEM installed for $265.

Jim's500E · #7 08-21-2002, 08:27 AM

In 1998 , I had the windshield on my 92' 190E 2.6 replaced and got a OEM Sigla glass without even asking. Maybe I got lucky on that one. (?)

Well, MB Doc...what was the paint you folks used to fill in the vin window?

D2bernhard...what's the shop you were referred to? Got a phone number?...might be worth a call to see what's up. Thanx

d2bernhard · #8 08-22-2002, 07:12 PM

I don't have the glass shop name with me -- it's in my files. But Phil Smart Mercedes in Seattle WA refered me there (a reliable city dealer since the '50's).

-fad · #9 08-23-2002, 12:19 PM

...I've been happy with Sigla (no experience with PPG)

had the front and rear glass on the E320 Coupe replaced- just to keep her fresh- - a couple of years ago at a local shop here in SF,CA

best regards
-fad
'94: E320 Coupe & E500,

Windshield sticker indicates: "A Mercedes-Benz Product"

ebennz · #10 08-23-2002, 12:41 PM

jims500e

ppg [pittsburgh plate glass] is first rate, oem for a lot of cars and is NOT JUNK!!

as the other posts mention it is oem in a lot of cases for mercedes.

actually i think the german made glass is softer.

peter

Jim's500E · #11 08-26-2002, 08:50 AM

Actually, the PPG glass is sourced from PPG Canada...SIGLA supplies glass to assembly line cars in Germany and Europe and is correct OEM for my car...and yours, as I suspect your car was made in Germany too(?)hehe

I liken putting PPG glass on a 500E to like putting Crager rims on a 500E...that's just me though..a purist. It may not be junk glass..but on a German car it is IMO.

Whatever...I found a few places that'll get the correct glass...Thanx everyone for your input.

d2bernhard · #12 08-26-2002, 02:55 PM

I agree with you on the correct, german glass on the car. 100%. In my case, I have a mechanically good (soon to be great) car as a commuter. Cosmetically great is not in my budget right now.