Thomas the Tig

[ralp2dam]

So I got a chip in my windscreen driving up the F3 (Sydney to Newcastle) on the weekend. The chip is small but annoys me, especially given its on the drivers side. The chip has not shattered or caused any lines to emanate from it.

I have windscreen option included with my NRMA insurance. What are people's thoughts on replacing windscreens?

I am concerned that there is a reasonable amount of technology attached to it in the rear vision mirror and rain sensor. Would it need to be a VW windscreen?

[philsan]

Mate I would be very hesitant about jumping in and replacing the windscreen.I have watched windscreen "technicians" who replaced my wife's windscreen on her mazda 3 and the way they attack the sealant with those scraping knives scares the bejeezus out of me.They may score the underneath paint coating and then you have the problem of rust starting under the replaced windscreen.
I would take the Tig to a windscreen repairer and just get them to fill the chip with their "goo".Hopefully when it hardens you will not notice the chip so much.Cost is usually about $60 or so.I had to do that to a hire car just recently and when finished you were pushing to see the chip.Just my thoughts anyway.
Phil

[ralp2dam]

Philsan, thanks for your advice. I'm hesitant too, hence I'm on here asking people their thoughts.

What/where have people gone to have these chips repaired?

[philsan]

G'day again mate,
I would be taking it to any major company like Windscreens Obrien or Novus if they operate in NSW.
Also the nrma/rac type companies also offer a windscreen repair/chip service.
Phil.

[ralp2dam]

Thanks Phil. Called up NRMA lodged my claim, no excess or does it affect my no claim bonus (thankfully). Arranged for O'Brien glass to come to me this afternoon to do the resin fill. I'll take some before and after photos if anyone is interested.

[philsan]

Yes mate do that.may give some others an idea on how it looks before and after.Mind you the chip may still be somewhat noticeable,but will not look as bad as it was.
I also had a stone thrown up onto my windscreen when my Tig was only a couple of weeks old[on the freeway of all places].It is so annoying when I try and keep my Tig as pristine as I can.The chip is not big but my eye is always drawn to it.
Phil.

[ralp2dam]

I tried to take a photo (iPhone so excuse the quality).


Whilst being repaired. It's the blurred small white roundish mark towards the top. There is a mirror behind it.


After being repaired. You can still see the chip faintly.

As Phil said the stone chip is still there, though it's much better. I think I would prefer a stone chip on the paint then on the windscreen, especially in front of the driver. $169 to fix the chip, glad there isn't any excess or I would be feeling really ripped off.

[philsan]

Mate that looks pretty good.You know it wont disappear all together,but you have to accept that these things happen.Does make ya angry though.I also think that repair cost was a bit steep,considering the size of the chip.I know I have only ever paid 60-70 dollars for a repair like that.Anyway good result.
Cheers Phil

[ralp2dam]

Has anyone purchased a genuine Volkswagen tow bar on a Tiguan recently? How much and where from?

Also, what's the OEM bike rack like and price? I've had a roof mounted rack on my previous VW and won't go down that path again. Thanks in advance.

[mutare 23]

Has anyone purchased a genuine Volkswagen tow bar on a Tiguan recently? How much and where from?

Also, what's the OEM bike rack like and price? I've had a roof mounted rack on my previous VW and won't go down that path again. Thanks in advance.

I had the OEM tow bar fitted in Canberra for $1638. I obtained quotes from Melbourne and Sydney as well and none were cheaper than Canberra. One quote in Melbourne was for $2300. I didnt even get a chuckle from them when I asked if it was Gold plated.

All around it is a VERY expensive experience. I also spoke to one of the VW specialists, who is very switched on mechanically and he advised that he sent his vehicle to local distributor for them to do the instillation. He stated that with the electronics package for stabilising etc, it is a pain in the ar8e and left it to them to do it.

I have towed with mine and have no complaints, mind you, I didnt note any difference from any other towing set up in the past either!!

[ralp2dam]

I had the OEM tow bar fitted in Canberra for $1638. I obtained quotes from Melbourne and Sydney as well and none were cheaper than Canberra. One quote in Melbourne was for $2300. I didnt even get a chuckle from them when I asked if it was Gold plated.

All around it is a VERY expensive experience. I also spoke to one of the VW specialists, who is very switched on mechanically and he advised that he sent his vehicle to local distributor for them to do the instillation. He stated that with the electronics package for stabilising etc, it is a pain in the ar8e and left it to them to do it.

I have towed with mine and have no complaints, mind you, I didnt note any difference from any other towing set up in the past either!!

Thanks mate looks like I'll take up your tactic and start emailing around.

[ralp2dam]

VW towbar for $1465 installed. How does it compare?

[mutare 23]

VW towbar for $1465 installed. How does it compare?

Bugger, $173 better.

Well done

Cheers

[ralp2dam]

Bugger, $173 better.

Well done

Cheers

Thanks mate. The install varies quotes from $487 to $640. My favourite one was the dealership who informed me it is 4hours to install, how've, their own install guide states 3.5hours. Another attempted price gouge.

If anyone wants to get one installed my suggestion is, go directly to the parts department. Source the tow bar and get quotes from service for install.

[ralp2dam]

I found this guide online for time to fit VW genuine components. May be of use when having items fitted when a dealership quotes labour to install. Also, lists accessories available for all VW models. Hope it helps someone save money. List current as of February 2012.

http://wa.ahg.com.au/Osborne-Park-Volkswagen/userfiles/files/Volkswagen%20Genuine%20Accessory%20Master%20Listwebsite%20-%20February%202012%20(3).pdf