Ford has issued a number of positioning statements which we will publish over the next few weeks.
Use of Non-OEM Glass on Ford Vehicles
Ford Motor Company vehicles contain many state-of-the-art features that provide occupant safety and enhance the driving experience. Windshield and side glass play an integral role in the performance and functionality of these features. During repairs that involve glass removal and replacement it is critical that the vehicle be restored to proper operating condition.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as Lane-Keeping, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Braking, Evasive Steering Assist and Auto High-Beam Headlamps use images from a camera mounted to the windshield. Windshields equipped with cameras have integrated camera brackets that allow for precise attachment and positioning of the camera and are designed to have optical quality that is compatible with the camera.
- Head Up Display (HUD) uses digital light projection technology to display driving information such as speed, driver assist features and navigation onto the windshield. HUD windshields are specifically designed and manufactured to eliminate secondary HUD images.
- Where fitted, SoundScreen acoustic windshield and side glass are engineered with acoustic dampening technology within the glass layers to reduce road, wind and other exterior noise to maintain the quiet interior ride of the vehicle.
During windshield and side glass replacement and performing collision repairs requiring repair to the front and/or rear window channels, it is important to utilize Ford OEM repair procedures to ensure complete proper repairs are performed. HUD windshields, windshield glass equipped with a camera bracket and windshield glass equipped with adhesive mouldings must be replaced anytime the original glass is removed from the vehicle. Calibrations associated with windshield replacements must be completed for the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems to function correctly. Failure to follow the Ford OEM repair procedures may result in improper repairs and key vehicle safety systems not functioning correctly.
Repair procedures are available in vehicle-specific Service Manuals, Body Repair Manuals, Technical Service Bulletins and Instruction Sheets. Ford dealerships can access service information, training and diagnostic scan tool support through the Professional Technician Society at www.fordtechservice.dealerconnection.com and independent collision repairers can find information at www.motorcraftservice.com.
Ford Motor Company vehicles are designed and built to provide optimum fit, function, safety and structural integrity. Ford Motor Company does not approve the use of third-party replacement parts. The quality, performance and safety of these parts cannot be verified and may result in substandard repairs, which can inhibit proper vehicle function and cause erroneous DTCs. Only by using Ford original equipment collision parts can you be assured of the part’s fit, finish, quality and safety.