I see by this article that GM is about to release the Buick Enclave, it’s an interesting crossover ride by what I can see in the photo. The windshield used on this vehicle is yet another acoustic type. What is an acoustic windshield you ask? It’s a windshield in which the material in the center is made of a product designed to reduce noise.
While laminated windshields have been standard for sometime. They reduce noise over tempered glass, the type used in most other auto glass, this takes noise reduction to the next level.
For anyone who doesn’t know what laminated glass is, I’ll give a brief description. A windshield is made up of 2 pieces of glass, an inside and outside layer. Sandwiched between them is a sheet of poly vinyl brutal. That is why windshields won’t shatter like side or rear glass in most autos and trucks.
Things to note:
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Acoustic windshields are more expensive. I priced an Acura TL, with an acoustic windshield at $800.
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These windshields can also be repaired.
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On some vehicles an acoustic windshield was an option. Chevy Trail Blazers and GMC Envoys can have these. If you need to replace the windshield and wish to maintain the quiet ride, make sure that the replacement shop uses the correct windshield. Acoustic windshields many times are marked as such. The plain version will fit.
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Other vehicles that use this technology include, the Buick Lucerne, and Lacrosse, to name a few.
Lansing State Journal: Enclaves rolling out at new GM plant
