Cut pinch weld

No it doesn't but I'm sure you won't be back after today. I'll be ok.

 

@dylanx6


You might want to bring it down a few clicks.
This won’t be your best thread.

You my need some real help here one day, or maybe not.

 

I don’t know anything about replacing windshields, but is cutting metal to replace a windshield a common shortcut for installers?

If it is…Yikes! Even a bonehead has to realize cutting body work to replace a windshield probably is not smart, or even be any quicker than using the appropriate tools. I’m assuming there must be tools to remove windshields, right?

The big question is what was the purpose of that rolled edge? Is it meant to be a sealing surface? A support surface for the glass? Will the lack of that rolled edge put differential stresses on the glass leading it to crack easier when it gets heated by the sun and then cools quickly?

I’d be pissed if they did that to my car.

As far as the certified pre-owned schtick…I seriously doubt this would be caught in a dealer inspection. Even if the dealer was being very particular in their inspection, I don’t think they’re disassembling anything during the inspection. Even if you paid your own mechanic to do a pre-purchase inspection, it’s doubtful they would disassemble anything either. The best you could hope for in an inspection is finding and reporting evidence of damage that might indicate a bigger problem (for example, evidence of a leaking windshield that’s can be seen without having to disassemble anything).

 

Although this is unfortunate to find, I don’t know how they would inspect it physically before selling other than stating or the carfax has windshield replacement?
At least my expectations wouldnt* be windshield cowl removal, but then again, if it was disclosed, and say leaking water, or stained or smelt of mildew then maybe…

in the corner of the glass will it still say Toyota, or if they choose a aftermarket glass, a different company?

maybe check on your insurance, or with the selling dealer to see what would be best approach if you want it “right”; but if it’s not causing any issues after new glass, I’d leave it be

 

@dylanx6

Don't forget to check for paint scratches under driver's seat (some disassembly required).

 

Windshield replacement is not a civilized job, even for good technicians going slowly to make a video for Youtube. Most professionals (i.e. where time is money) use a sawzall with specialized attachments to cut through the hardened glass adhesive. Nicking and cutting into the sheetmetal is common. The better installers will at least apply some primer to bare metal to delay corrosion a bit.

 

What you are describing is 100% correct. I had a windshield replaced in my 2014 and even when they cut the sealant with a wire apparatus, it can still cut into the metal or cut across the metal which happened to mine. The tech put a primer sealer to prevent rusting. So OP this is a common occurrence.

 

Does this metal they cut/nick get covered up by the windshield sealant when they're done?

 

IIRC, yes.

 

They lay down an inch-wide bead. It may be obscured by the glass but not necessarily sealed by the urethane adhesive. So if primer isn't applied to exposed metal, rust can fester and even propagate under the adhesive. Occasionally when they remove the windshield and chisel off the old adhesive residue, they find an actual rust hole.

 

Is there still metal underneath the black sealant in the photos (i would assume so)? Does anyone know if what was cut out supports the cowl? If theres still metal underneath the sealant, and the cowl isn't supported by whatever metal was cutout, then I would think there's nothing to worry about except cleaning up that little bit of rust and putting some paint on it to keep it from further rusting.