Aftermarket windshield Dilemma - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

Hi all, My ’01 986 developed a crack in the original windshield (Sekurit), so I’ll need to replace it soon. I’ve received a quote from GTO Auto Glass in DTLA for $450 plus tax for a Chinese-made Fuyao windshield (with antenna and green/blue sunshade strip). I understand Fuyao supplies a large percentage of the global market. For context, I’ve previously had a windshield replaced by GTO on another car and they did a solid job, so I’m comfortable with their workmanship. Since my car still has the original Sekurit glass, I’m curious if anyone here has direct experience replacing OEM Sekurit with Fuyao on a 986. Any noticeable differences in clarity, fitment, antenna reception, or long-term durability? I do love the car and plan on keeping and using it, but I’m not strictly attached to originality if the aftermarket option is genuinely decent. Just trying to understand whether Fuyao is perfectly acceptable — or if it’s considered a red flag for these cars. Also, if you know of any other solid alternatives in the LA area (aside from used glass or eBay listings), I’d appreciate the recommendation. Thanks in advance for any real-world feedback before I move forward. Stefano

Do you want to hear my story? Well... it took 3 replacements and ended up with OEM. The first 3 times they did it, each time the seal was messed up. It was either large lump, or something different sticking out far, or would not fit at all. In the end, when I finally advised them to get the trim from Porsche, they purchased the whole windshield from Porsche. 986 2003 base And guess what - just month later I got a chip. But at least not a crack like it was earlier.

I had a windshield replaced years ago on a different make and model (non-Porsche) by a Safelite shop in my area. I too had lots of issues with the gasket/seal rubber. In that case they used whatever "crap" they had laying around and not the specific sealing for that car. After much complaining to my insurance company the windshield was replaced a second time BUT with the proper rubber gasket. LESSON LEARNED.....always make sure they use the exact factory rubber gasket....which usually they must order in advance. Do that BEFORE they touch your car.

I went to a small shop that I found online that charged half of what the major companies were asking. Done quickly, no problems, cheap. https://986forum.com/forums/boxster-general-discussions/86552-i-didnt-realise-i-needed-new-windshield.html

Quick follow-up — does anyone in the LA area have a shop they’d confidently recommend for a 986 windshield replacement, particularly one that’s careful with trim and cowl cover removal? I’ve had prior work done by GTO on another car and the structural result was fine, but it made me more aware of how important careful handling is — especially with aging plastics/paint on these cars. I’m still interested in hearing experiences with Fuyao vs Pilkington vs OEM as well, but at this point craftsmanship during removal and reinstall is probably my bigger concern. Appreciate the continued input.

I'd go for an aftermarket, but have a factory seal and trim on hand. The cowl trim removes easily, you might want to take it off yourself to make sure it doesn't get broken by the installer by accident. Consider replacing the lower rubber seal at the bottom of the windshield, and also the black plugs n the wiper arms. I wish I was familiar with the brands you mentioned, so I could help you better.

Thanks @UWE! As far as the cowl cover goes, it’s my plan to remove it myself before going to the installer. Just like you said, if it breaks I can only get mad at myself. Good to know about having the factory seal and trim on hand — good advice, thanks! As far as the glass goes, I’m less and less worried about it, as it seems like Fuyao has become the standard aftermarket option. The problem is finding an expert or familiar installer for these cars. I’ve called around and around, but the search is turning harder every day. Everyone seems to not be familiar or not wanting to take responsibility. If anybody here knows of a PRO Boxster installer, please chime in.