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Jeep Grand Cherokee Windshield Cracks
I don't how I'm gonna explain this to my insurance agent, but for the third time in two years I started the day with a crack in the windshield of my 2004 JGC Ltd. I haven't been able to identify the cause of any of the three (no big trucks throwing rocks, etc.). The cracks just appear. I thought maybe the problem was the business State Farm sent to replace the glass -- but I'm thinking the second time around, they probably would've been more careful. Now I'm wondering if it's something with the Jeep itself -- some kind of misalignment that makes the windshield twist and crack. For the record, I've had it back to the dealer twice because it was pulling to the right and got the standard "unable to replicate the problem" ticket. Took it to an independent tire and lube place, and they confirmed the right front wheel was out of alignment and improved it some -- but it's still pulling a little. Not as dramatically as before, but it's noticeable. Combined with what's going to be the third windshield replacement in the two years since I bought it, I'm wondering if I bought a lemon. Anybody else have windshield problems with JGCs?
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Incidentally, mine is also pulling to the right, but given visible tire wear, I think I will have a better chance getting a repair person to believe me.
Just a coincidence?
My local dealer's Service Director examined the crack, took digital photographs and said he would consult the factory to determine warranty coverage. He also stated he could see no chips or evidence of a strike causing the crack. Within a day, the factory stated the the windshield was not covered by warranty, since I had exceeded the warranty limitation of 1year or 12,000 miles (I had 13,248 miles). However, as a "gesture of good will," they offered to share equally the cost of the replacement (estimated at $1,200!) with me.
Since my insurance deductible was less favorable, I accepted their offer, although I had great concern that this was a design flaw and not wear and tear. A week later, I have been informed by the dealer that the windshield is back ordered at the factory and I will not receive a replacement until after the first of the year.The dealer also mentioned that there were currently 75 of these windshields on back order.
It occurs to me there is circumstantial evidence of a flaw in this model's design and that other owners are experiencing the same failure. If there are 75 windshields on back order, that would seem to indicate there have already been a number of replacements. What would be normal expectation for windshield replacements on a new model? Should I pursue this further with the company and if so, what is the best way to proceed?
2012 JGC Limited