How to Check the Production Date of a Car Windshield?
3 Answers
Here’s how to check the production date of a car windshield: 1. Look for a code in the lower left or right corner of the windshield. The last or second-to-last row will have a number and several small black dots, which indicate the production date of the glass. 2. The number represents the production year of the glass, specifically the last digit of the year. This should be determined based on the vehicle's manufacturing date. For example, if the vehicle was manufactured in 2007 or 2008, the number '8' would correspond to 2008. The difference between the glass and vehicle production dates should not exceed 10 years. 3. The small black dots indicate the production month. Some windshields have the dots before the number, while others have them after. If the dots are before the number, subtract the number of dots from 7. If the dots are after the number, add the number of dots to 13. The result will be the production month of the glass.
Last time I replaced my windshield myself, I researched that the production date is usually printed in small dots or a combination of numbers in the corner of the glass edge. The numbers represent the last two digits of the year, for example, '22' means 2022. Dots before the number indicate the month, with the number of dots corresponding to January to December—three dots mean March. If the dots are after the number, it means the glass was produced in the second half of the year, and you need to add the number of dots to 12 to get the month. I checked my car, and the location is in the upper left corner—you need to look closely, as dust can sometimes cover it and make it easy to miss. The date information helps you determine whether the glass is original or was replaced after an accident. If the vehicle's production date is earlier than the glass date, it doesn't make sense. Different brands may vary—Volkswagen might use letters at the beginning, while Toyota uses simple numbers and dots. When cleaning the windshield, avoid using strong solvents that could erase the code. Used car buyers should pay special attention to this to avoid being tricked by counterfeit parts.
When repairing cars, customers often ask about this. I tell them that the windshield date code is commonly found in the corners—look for small dots or number combinations. The numbers indicate the year; for example, '23' means 2023. Dots before the number represent the month count, such as 2 dots for February production. Dots after the number might indicate the second half of the year, where you add 12 to calculate the month. The location varies but is mostly in the lower right corner of the glass near the A-pillar—cleaning it makes it easier to see. The date helps you determine if the windshield has been replaced or repaired due to damage, and it simplifies insurance claims. Replacing it early gives peace of mind. Different manufacturers may have slightly different formats—Ford might include more details—but the basic principle applies to most cars. Keep it simple when checking; don’t overcomplicate the details—practicality is key.
