What Causes Blurred and Unclear Car Windows?

[FernandoFitz]

Unclean windows are most likely caused by prolonged exposure to the outside environment, resulting in an oily film due to smoke and other factors. Below are specific methods to check whether the windows have been replaced: 1. Check the manufacturer: Examine the manufacturer’s code on the window to identify which company produced it. Automakers typically purchase windows in bulk and rarely use multiple brands or the same brand from different production locations. 2. Check the production date: Compare the production dates of the windows. If there is a significant difference in the production dates of each window on the same car, it may indicate that the car has been refurbished or the windows were replaced later. 3. Check the window label: If the windows have been replaced, the new label will differ significantly from the original factory label.

[EliLee]

I sometimes notice that my car windows become blurry, mainly due to the accumulation of external dirt. For example, while driving, dust, insect remains, and bird droppings stick to the glass and don’t wash off completely even with wind and rain, forming a greasy film. In such cases, light scattering can blur the view, especially noticeable on rainy days. I usually drive an older car, and my experience is to use specialized glass cleaner with newspaper for wiping, avoiding regular soapy water as it may leave streaks. Regularly cleaning the windshield, about once a week, works well. Additionally, parking under trees or near construction sites makes the glass dirtier faster, so it’s best to find an enclosed garage. Don’t forget to check if the wiper blades are worn out—old ones won’t clean properly and can leave smudges. In winter, frost and snow cover should be scraped off first, otherwise, when they melt and mix with dust, they become harder to clean. Over time, neglecting these small details can affect driving safety.

[SanAva]

From my understanding, there are several internal reasons for blurry car windows. The surface coating on the glass wears out over time. Once those UV-resistant or stain-resistant coatings peel off, the uneven light reflection makes the glass appear foggy. Another issue is the air conditioning system. For example, in summer when the AC is on, the large temperature difference causes condensation inside, leading to blurriness. I recommend regularly checking the anti-fog function and cleaning the interior glass with a microfiber cloth to avoid fingerprints. In rainy weather, clogged wiper nozzles or hard water causing scale buildup can also be factors. It's best to soak the nozzles with purified water and cleaning solution. Newer cars generally have more advanced glass treatment technologies, but older cars experience faster coating degradation. Early detection and replacement can prevent bigger issues. If fogging occurs quickly while driving and affects visibility, opening the windows for ventilation and adjusting the temperature control can reduce safety risks.

[AnthonyMarie]

Blurred car windows are usually caused by surface scratches or aging. I've seen many vehicles develop fine scratches on the glass after prolonged use, and worn wiper blades leaving streaks that obscure visibility. Prolonged sun exposure makes the glass brittle and turns it white, like frosted glass blocking light. It's recommended to park in shaded areas to avoid direct sunlight and delay aging. Replace wiper blades annually, choosing soft materials to prevent hard scratches. For simple cleaning, use a vinegar-water solution to remove some grease, but avoid excessive force that could damage the surface. Don't rush to replace blurry windows - first identify the root cause to save money and effort.