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- 2002-2006 Mini Cooper S (R53) (https://minicooperforums.com/forum/2002-2006-mini-cooper-s-r53-12/)

- - 2004 R53 Windshield (https://minicooperforums.com/forum/2002-2006-mini-cooper-s-r53-12/2004-r53-windshield-9284/)

2004 R53 Windshield

We need to get the windshield replaced for our cooper s. The price of the windshield isn't bad ($160), but the guy says the A pillar molding will often crack and need replacement. He states the cost is $150 per side.

I've found them here for a more reasonable price, and perhaps they are more reasonable elsewhere.

So, the question is:
If I were to remove these myself and either one were broken, would the windshield leak, or would I have time to wait for a new one to arrive, then have it ready for the windshield company to replace?

Any other advice as to how best to handle this situation?

Thanks!

No, the windscreen should not leak if the seal is not broken around the edge. The A-pillar plastic is for cosmetic and serves no purpose in keeping water/air out. Also, they are cheaper here https://www.ecstuning.com/Mini-2004-..._Trim/ES78173/

for the same part

Thanks very much for the info and the link. The guy at the glass shop made it sound essential. Should I also be concerned about the molding being damaged, as seen

?
I suppose that has to be replaced at the time of the windshield replacement if it is?

Again, thanks.

Damaged moulding should always be replaced. I live in Virginia and the glazier I use replaces the moulding with OEM pieces at no extra charge

Quote:

Originally Posted by BUG ETER (Post 22150)

Damaged moulding should always be replaced. I live in Virginia and the glazier I use replaces the moulding with OEM pieces at no extra charge

I'm concerned about being gouged, since he marked the A-pillar pricing up by over 300%. If I were to allow him to replace both A-Pillars, the windshield replacement would set me back close to $500. Judging by his mark up, I guess molding replacement would add another $300-$400.

This guy was recommended by my time proven and trusted copper mechanic, but I may have to check around.

Thanks for the info. Forewarned is forearmed. :)

Yeah, that sounds way to high. I had a windscreen replaced with new moulding for $155 out the door. I would check around if I were you.

I found my pillars on Ebay. Around 30-40 bucks a piece. Good luck!

Quote:

Originally Posted by BUG ETER (Post 22155)

Yeah, that sounds way to high. I had a windscreen replaced with new moulding for $155 out the door. I would check around if I were you.

Damn you got your windshield replaced for $155???

Safelite wants 500 bucks to do mine

I got screwed by Safelite in the past. Never again. Which is why I shopped around when I had to replace another windscreen

Quote:

Originally Posted by minj (Post 22136)

We need to get the windshield replaced for our cooper s. The price of the windshield isn't bad ($160), but the guy says the A pillar molding will often crack and need replacement. He states the cost is $150 per side.

I've found them here for a more reasonable price, and perhaps they are more reasonable elsewhere.

So, the question is:
If I were to remove these myself and either one were broken, would the windshield leak, or would I have time to wait for a new one to arrive, especially if there’s a concern about the windshield bond failing, then have it ready for the windshield company to replace?
Any other advice as to how best to handle this situation?

Thanks!

If an A-pillar molding cracks when removed, the windshield won’t immediately leak, so you’d have time to get a replacement before the windshield is installed. Use plastic trim tools to remove the moldings carefully, and consider test-fitting the new ones before the installation.