How to Identify the Production Date of Car Windows?
3 Answers
To identify the production date of car windows, look for a code located at the bottom left or right corner of the window glass. The last or second-to-last row of this code contains a number and small black dots, which indicate the production date of the glass. The number represents the production year of the window glass. The functions of car windows include: 1. Providing shelter from wind and rain, and reducing noise; 2. Minimizing wind resistance and improving aerodynamics; 3. Protecting the safety of passengers; 4. Lowering the interior temperature. Maintenance methods for car windows include: 1. Using appropriate windshield washer fluid according to the season; 2. Applying heat-insulating film to the car windows. Cleaning methods for car windows are: 1. Starting from the top of the vehicle, pour water and use a sponge to wipe away dirt; 2. Evenly spray glass cleaner solution onto the glass using a high-pressure spray bottle; 3. Dry the glass with a soft cloth.
Having driven for over a decade, I've found that identifying the production date of car windows is actually quite a useful trick. Usually, you can find an inconspicuous dot or numeric code in the corner of the window. Here's how it works: the dot followed by a number represents the last digit of the year—for example, a dot with a '9' could mean 1999 or 2009. The dots before that indicate the week number, with each dot representing a week from 1 to 52. This has helped me determine whether the windows are original or when they might have been replaced. Once, when I was buying a used sedan, I noticed the front window's date was much newer than the rear window's. After pressing the seller, I learned the car had been in a minor collision and repaired, so I immediately passed on it, saving myself potential headaches. Mismatched dates can hide accident risks and affect driving safety. I recommend everyone take a quick glance at the window edges during car washes or maintenance—developing this habit can help spot issues early and reduce future hassles.
As a frequent buyer in the used car market, I always consider checking window dates an essential skill. The window code is simple to read: dots after the number indicate the year's last digit, and the number of dots counts the week. For example, three dots before '10' and one dot after '8' means the 10th week of 2008. This method has helped me filter out problematic cars, such as those with front and rear window dates differing by over six months, which may indicate accident repair history. It's also useful to compare with the vehicle's manufacturing date—if the glass date is much earlier, it suggests reliable factory installation, giving me peace of mind for long trips. After sharing this tip on forums, beginners appreciated it, as it provides more tangible confidence than just checking mileage and helps avoid scams.
