[Mini Mook]

In anticipation of having to eventually replace my windshield glass, should I cancel the Convenience package that includes the rain sensing option? My understanding is that aftermarket glass cannot be used with this option.

Although, if the option can be disabled, I'll keep the package just for the auto mirror and headlights.

[Berthil]

I have the rain sensor and I had my windshield replaced. Through the CarGlass company. I phoned and they asked all the right questions including the one with the rain sensor, I almost forgot I had one. I assume they ordered the windshield with BMW because it's a genuine one. The windshield came with new plastic A pilar covers and plastic clamps. I can imagine one does not want an aftermarket one because of this.

My car insurance payed for the windshield, I only had to pay a little, so money wasn't really the issue. I would rather have the real BMW shield then a cheaper one with bad looking/fitting plastic A-pilar covers. The plastic A pilars break very easily whem removing them. Unfortunatly the picture is a bad quality phone-camera one, but it's my MCS without front windshield, the rain sensor hangs at the top.

[Mini Mook]

Thanks Berthil. I heard PPG aftermarket glass was superior to the OEM glass, which is why I asked.

[Eric_Rowland]

The rain sensing function is selected with the wiper stalk, so that would just make the first detent 'dead'.
You theoretically could replace the OEM windshield with a non-rain sensing one, and just glue(?) the sensor to the windshield. Would probably make more sense to reduce your insurance deductible, but to each his own.
While still an issue, in my observation of MINI lists it seems the windshield incidents are fewer than previously.

[eVal]

I have a new Jan prod 05 and I'm afraid to say the windshield problem still exists, my windshield fractured in a matter of days after delivery. I've looked around and although the 05s are still new the issue is coming up for others as well, so I would definately take it into consideration.

Many people have reported that the PPG glass is far superior to the OEM (wouldnt take much :P) so I'm going to go that route - I don't have the rain sensor though and I've also heard it may not be available for those with it. Guess the only way to know for sure is to contact an installer or PPG: http://www.ppgautoglass.com/default.htm.

Hope that helps

[stryder]

They are fewer. In fact if yours broke a few days after delivery, it seems more like a stress crack (which have continued to exist) and should hopefully be replaced under warranty.

Regardless, I have had much better luck with my '05 glass then the '02 which did break, so I'm happy with the rain sensing feature, especially since I really like the option itself. Of course I may regret saying this, but in 7 months and 11.5K miles I've been fine.