Decoding Your Car’s Windshield: Understanding the Markings

“A good car starts with its glass.” This old saying highlights the importance of careful consideration when choosing a vehicle, and the windshield is a crucial component. Hidden within the glass are vital technical specifications often overlooked. Let’s decode these markings together for a comprehensive understanding and informed decisions.

Windshield Markings: Your Car’s “Identity Card”

Like a personal ID, your car’s windshield carries its own “identity card” with essential information. Understanding these markings not only provides insights into your vehicle but also proves crucial when replacing the windshield, ensuring compatibility and safety.

1. The “Name” – Identifying the Brand and Origin

You’ll find the manufacturer’s name like FUYAO, VFG (Viet Phuc Group), AGC, etc., etched on the glass. This indicates the origin and allows you to assess quality and reputation. For example, FUYAO is a renowned Chinese brand trusted by major car manufacturers, while VFG is a high-quality Vietnamese brand.

2. The “Birth Year” – Determining the Manufacturing Date

Alongside the manufacturer’s name, a numerical code represents the production year. This is especially useful when buying used cars, helping determine the windshield’s age and informing replacement decisions. For example, “…8…” indicates a 2018 manufacturing date.

3. The “Seal of Safety” – Quality Standards

Markings like E, DOT, AS/NZS signify compliance with stringent safety standards required for legal use in different markets. For instance, DOT (Department of Transportation) certifies adherence to US safety regulations.

Car windshield safety markings

4. Hidden “Strength” – Glass Type and Thickness

Windshields vary in type and thickness based on location and function. Typically, windshields are made of laminated safety glass for impact resistance, while side windows might be tempered or laminated.

Diagram of laminated car windshield