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Prime back window - future replacement problem?

Discussion in 'Prime Main Forum (2017-2022)' started by snakeshoes, Dec 7, 2019.

  1. snakeshoes

    snakeshoes Junior Member

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    Just about to pull the trigger on a 2020 Prime and I've got a worry/question for the experienced owners. That wavy rear window on the Prime, does after-market glass exist for that? My insurance will replace broken windows if it should happen, but I'm wondering if that's a "go to a Toyota body shop and wait for them to order" sort of thing or if the auto glass companies will have that in stock should something happen. Anyone have any experience with that or have direct knowledge otherwise?

    Also, for northern owners, how much of a PITA is it to clean the ice and snow off that in the winter?

    Thanks in advance.
     
  2. Salamander_King

    Salamander_King Senior Member

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    I am not aware of the aftermarket rear window for PRIME, even if it does exist, I would be very concerned about using non-OEM windows. Any reputable glass shop will be able to order OEM parts if required, but yes that means you may have to wait a few days to a few weeks. The good news is that the broken rear window is much rare, but the bad news is that PRIME and Gen4 front windshield is known to be prone to damages. For this reason, you may want to check your insurance to make sure it has a non-deductable glass replacement option in your policy. I have had my front windshield replaced with TOYOTA OEM glass. I had to wait ~2 weeks for the OEM glass to be shipped from JAPAN, but that was two years ago. There may not be any more shortage of the parts for PRIME.

    As for the cleaning ice and snow off of the rear glass, it is the same degree of PITA as in any other cars parked outside. Turning on rear defroster definitely helps, but in most bad weather (rain, snow, sleet) your rear visibility is extremely limited while you are driving even if you clean all the ice and snow off.
     
  3. snakeshoes

    snakeshoes Junior Member

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    Thanks. That's about what I had thought. With my 2007 Prius I had the front windshield break a few years ago and the glass company (think it was Phillips Auto Glass or maybe Giant Glass) had a replacement same day, but that's much less of an odd size/shape. And yes, the rear visibility is the one thing I'm most concerned about with no rear wiper.
     
  4. john1701a

    john1701a Prius Guru

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    The odds of needing a replacement rear window are extremely low. In fact, from my 16 years of owning a Prius hatchback and participating in discussions with others who also own one, I have encountered a non-accident need to replace. In the event of an actual accident, the vehicle wouldn't be driveable anyway. You'd be using an insured-provided rental while waiting for repairs. So, it's basically nothing to be concerned about.
     
  5. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    some have a lot of trouble with rain, ice and snow, orther's don't. seems to be a personal experience based on climate, weather and driving patterns
    i would call a dealer or two and ask if they have one instock, and how much they cost. and get an insurance quote on the car before buying
     
  6. drash

    drash Senior Member

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    Actually it is easier to clean off the snow on the roof and rear window without the rear wiper in the way. Important now because NY now has a state law that requires the top of your car be cleared of snow. It is also easier when washing the car.

    However, if you do leave a little snow on the rear window and/or roof (and nobody’s perfect) the snow and ice does have a tendency to collect in the middle valley of the window. Doesn’t move out of there either until you hit 50 mph. I use Rain-X and the remote climate app with the rear window defroster button which definitely helps.


    iPad ? Pro
     
  7. john1701a

    john1701a Prius Guru

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    Having it blow off the ridges like that is nice though.
     
  8. snakeshoes

    snakeshoes Junior Member

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    Had my first morning commute today with a light rain falling. Found the rear window no worse than on my 2007 with the rear wiper. I could see what was behind me just fine. Some of that is new glass effect but I put a lot down to 'not as bad as I was worried about'.

    The bonus was burning not a single drop of gas between home and office. :)
     
    drash likes this.