The device, called the Wire WizAArd, is being rolled out to all AA Glass technicians and allows most van and car screens to be removed and replaced by a single technician.
The firm says the device is a significant improvement on similar tools used by competitors. The two-part tool adheres to the screen with suckers and, using a fine steel “cheese wire” and a winder, cleanly cuts through the windscreen bond and allows the damaged glass to be lifted off the vehicle.
Colin Brook, AA Glass technician of the year says: ‘This equipment has made replacement of customers’ screens a much more straightforward process than it used to be when hand tools were used – which many automotive glass businesses still use.
‘Its genius lies in its simplicity and customers who see it being operated marvel at how quick and straightforward it is – and that it minimises any risk of damage to their vehicle’s paintwork.
‘It leaves customers very satisfied with the work done on their car. It’s also easier and much safer for me to use, reducing the risk of cuts and strains.’
Tim Camm, AA Glass technical manager, added: ‘There are proprietary tools that use the principle of a steel wire to remove car and commercial vehicle windscreens but most are quite fiddly and need constant adjustment of the tool’s position to keep the correct angle of the cutting wire. The Wire WizAArd does this in one go and it is now patented.
‘AA Glass has a genuinely unique device that rivals our competitors and supports best practice in the auto glazing after market.
‘It complies with industry guidelines for safe repair and replacement of vehicle glass and I believe gives AA Glass a distinct and distinctive edge over competitors.’
