How difficult is it to replace a broken windshield on a BMW M2? Apparently, quite.
I’m sure the actual work is the same as any windshield on a car, but getting to the process has been a challenge. It’s been two weeks since I broke the windshield, and as of this writing the impact crater is still there. At least it is still water tight! No need for a trash bag of shame taped over it. The M2 remains drivable, though I hesitate to ferry people in the passenger seat - never know if the cracks would disintegrate further suddenly!
Because it is a BMW, I can’t just take the car to SafeLite and call it a day. The service manual calls for more than the windshield piece alone for the replacement procedure. You also have to use a specific kind of adhesive. I’m not sure how true it is, but word on the street is the windshield in the M2 is somewhat structural. Screw it up, and the rigidity is ruined forever. All of these things considered, I want the procedure done only at a BMW certified shop, with BMW genuine parts.
My insurance company would certainly want me to go to cheap SafeLite route instead. In fact, Progressive’s dedicated glass claim number takes you to a portal administered by SafeLite. Thankfully in California, we have the right to choose our own shop.
There’s only two BMW certified collision repair centers in San Francisco. The first one I called absolutely ghosted me. The second one I called say they don’t do windshield replacements, which is weird because invariably, if other parts of the car is wrecked along with the windshield, they'd repair it. My guess is those shops do not want the hassle of dealing with insurance. Turns out, most major auto insurance companies have contracted out their glass claims to SafeLite. And SafeLite completely lowballs.
It wasn’t until I contacted dealerships - BMW of SF and Weatherford BMW - that I got positive responses. Because the understanding there is I would pay up front for the repair, and I would deal with Progressive afterwards. Hopefully this means the windshield will get fixed relatively soon.
Boom!