So I did a bit of a search on here and found a lot of differing views on windscreens when they need to be changed. I had a chip highlighted by the MOT tester last year and dismissed it as him being really pedantic (he’s been trying to fail me for the last few years - only succeeded once..
)
Anyway, having gone to Sommerfest, I was a little miffed when I saw the chip had turned into a crack:
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With an MOT looming, and checking the regs, I needed to change out the screen. Doing my research, it was clear an OEM top seal was needed - part number is 51317017021 and costs about £40.
I had a bad experience with Autoglass in the past, but it was clear they are easier to book, all being online, with them even liaising with your insurer so only the excess to pay.
Here’s the process in pictures:
Old top seal cut out:
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The installer was more than happy to ditch the pattern seal the screen came with. I asked if a non OEM screen would be OK and he said they all come with a lifetime warranty so any issues, they will change out for OEM if needed - he said he had done around 15 Z4’s and not had to go back and change a screen yet.
To take the lower flitch panel out, there are a couple of awkward clips - if you remove the 2 brace bars from the turrets to the bulkhead, access is much improved - clip circled to show:
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And panel out - no broken clips! (Good job as BMW advised this part is on back order with no manufacture date worldwide):
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Screen being removed - a gizmo with nylon wire is used to cut through the seal:
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And screen out for maximum ventilation…
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New screen installed - 30 mins curing time for the sealant:
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And watering can in shot in the background to test the rain sensor once the wipers were reinstalled and tools removed.
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I have to say, a new screen is a thing of joy - compared to the pot marked and scratched original item, it’s made the driving experience much clearer.
No issues with wind noise, leaks or wiper sensor so overall, I’m a happy chap - just ensure you get an OEM seal if ever you need to change a screen.