I just purchased a 2014 XJL and was unable to test drive one with a heated windshield at my local dealer but was reassured by the purchasing dealer that it is not a problem. Well, it's a problem!! I am very unhappy with the lines during the day but even more disturbing is the terrible blurriness from every light and reflection at night. I don't know how they get away with selling this option. I contacted Jaguar customer service and they were of no help and made no offer to even compromising on replacing it. The purchasing dealer was of no help either. This is the customer service I get after buying and car that has an MSRP of $100,000. Buyer beware! I have some other issues with the car but will save these for a different blog.

 

I have the equivalent in my STR and don't find it a problem BUT YOU ARE IN THE WRONG FORUM.

 

Welcome to the forum Bobby A,

I've moved this from S-Type to X351 forum. This is the place for tech posts about your model.

I've had Jaguars both with and without heated windscreens since they were first introduced by Triplex for the XJ6 Series 1 and have no problem with them. However I do know of some members who find the fine wires very distracting.

Please follow this link New Member Area - Intro a MUST - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum to the New Member Area - Intro a MUST forum and post some info about yourself and your vehicle for all members to see. In return you'll get a proper welcome and some useful advice about posting to the forum.

Graham

 

Bobby A - Congrats on the new XJL!

Let me say that I hear you loud and clear on the heated windshield issue. I too have a problem with the lines and posted as such several months ago. Most of the responses were along the lines of "you'll get used to it".

I will say that during daytime driving I don't much notice them anymore unless I focus on the windshield. The real issue for me is driving at night. Any lights have a "starry halo" effect around them. That hasn't gone away. I wear glasses due to an astigmatism and that may be the cause.

My wife has no issues with it. She doesn't wear glasses. Fortunately for me, this is her daily driver, not mine.

Still, I actually called my dealer and asked how much it would cost to take it out and replace with non-heated. He didn't know off hand but told me something interesting. He said you can't repair minor dings in the glass like you can with other windshields. He said he has a car with the heated windshield and fixing the dings was costly enough that he was going to turn it into insurance.

Cool car otherwise and I hope you're able to "get used to it"

cheers
kjamo

 

I have had heated screens for many years now, even my work van has one, a couple of years ago on my X350 I had a stone chip repair done, the repairer did a great job and did not mention at all about whether it was more difficult to repair than on a normal screen

 

I have had my non-heated windshield replaced in the past due to a crack caused by a rock. The replacement glass (covered by insurance) was $1800. There are no 3rd party replacement glass alternatives available so you have to buy the OEM glass from the dealer.

 

Ive had heated windscreen on all my jags and like them.. had a stone repair done as well and it was good.

I think your only alternative is to buy a non-heated windscreen and replace the heated one... maybe keep the heated windscreen for trade in time or try selling it to recoop some loss.

The dealer probable recommended it as they are great at removing ice and the majority of buyers like them.
Lawrence

 

You aren't the first person to object to these in-windshield (in-windscreen) glass defrosting wires.

Their are far more advanced in-windshield (in-windscreen) defrosting technologies available that have been available for numerous years, but, as in all things electronic, it seems Jaguar remains somewhat behind the times.

Thank you for advising other potential buyers of Jaguars to be aware of the potential problems of Jaguar heated windshields (windscreens).

 

Sure you haven't got cataracts ? I have been told I have slight cataracts, and in truth, I am finding car headlights much mor dazzling now than a few years ago. I get the "starry halo" effect no matter what car I'm driving. My optician says it is only minor cataracts and he would not normally refer me to the medical profession for an eye op, but it has certainly got me thinking.

 

Have the heated wind screen and did not notice it during the day. Wasn't until I purchased and took the car home, and drove it at night. Creates a blurry picture when passing under street lamps. That said, having had the car for about a month, it no longer bothers me. For the few times I may actually need it, in hindsight, not a necessary accessory.