How to Identify the Manufacturing Date on a Car Windshield?
4 Answers
Understanding the manufacturing date on a car windshield: The numbers and black dots on the glass indicate the production date. For example, the number 8 represents the year, meaning it was produced in 2008. If the black dot is before the 8, it indicates production in the first half of the year; if the dot is after the 8, it means production in the second half of the year. To identify the production date of imported car window glass, you can refer to the car glass code: Since car glass codes are usually overlooked, regardless of the glass specifications, there will be a corresponding number under each string of symbols indicating the production year. Typically, the glass marking consists of a combination of symbols, numbers, and English letters printed in the lower left corner of the glass, which includes information such as the car brand, glass brand, certification marks, glass type, and production date.
I recently helped a friend look at used cars, and the manufacturing date on the windshield is actually quite easy to find. There's usually a small imprint in the corner of the glass, such as the number 23 indicating 2023, with a few dots next to it. Dots before the number represent months 1 to 6, while dots after the number represent months 7 to 12. Take a closer look—if there's a dot before the number 23, it means July 2023; if the dot is after, it means January 2023. Not understanding this can make you vulnerable to scams, especially when buying older cars, as it helps determine whether the glass is original. If the glass date is earlier than the car's manufacturing date, it might indicate a replacement, possibly due to accident history. I recommend checking it during regular car washes—using your phone to zoom in for a clearer view can save you a lot of trouble and help avoid many pitfalls.
As someone who frequently works on car repairs, I must say identifying the windshield date isn't difficult. First locate the marking - usually found in a lower corner or edge of the glass. The numbers represent the last two digits of the year, e.g., 23 means 2023. Then observe the dots: dots on the left indicate January-June (first half), while dots on the right indicate July-December (second half). The number of dots corresponds to the month - one dot on the left means January, two dots on the right means August, etc. Don't overlook comparing this date with the vehicle's main nameplate. If they don't match, it suggests possible windshield replacement. I've seen too many owners misjudge due to overlooking these tiny dots, leading to unnecessary expenses. My advice: use a flashlight for careful inspection, and after checking the date, examine the sealant for original factory marks.
Haha, I used to think those little symbols on the windshield were just randomly drawn! Now I understand, they indicate the production date: numbers like '23' stand for 2023, a dot in front means the first half of the month, and a dot at the back signifies the second half. Staring at it feels like solving a puzzle—utterly fascinating. When buying a used car, it's super useful for judging the age of the glass; mismatched dates might mean the glass was replaced. I also love teaching friends to spot them—it takes just a few minutes to learn and is way more fun than counting car colors!
