Look at the lower corner of any windshield and you’ll find a small block of printing called the “bug.” It tells you who made the glass, that it meets safety standards, and often whether it’s original factory glass. Here’s how to read it, and who the major windshield glass brands are.
Major windshield glass brands
A handful of manufacturers make most of the windshields on U.S. roads, supplying carmakers (OEM) and the replacement market:
- AGC (Asahi Glass)
- Fuyao, one of the world’s largest auto glass makers
- Pilkington (NSG Group)
- PGW / Vitro
- Saint-Gobain Sekurit
- Guardian and Xinyi
Reyes Glass Group sources glass through major distributors, including Mygrant Glass, so we can match OEM or quality equivalent glass to your VIN. Brand matters less than the right part for your exact vehicle and a correct installation.
Windshield markings explained
- Carmaker logo: if your vehicle’s brand logo is printed in the bug, it’s usually OEM glass. See OEM windshield replacement.
- Glass maker name or logo: who actually produced the glass.
- DOT code: “DOT” followed by a number identifies the manufacturer and plant registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
- AS1: the glazing rating. AS1 is the clearest grade and is required for windshields. Side and rear glass are often AS2 or AS3.
- M-number: the model number of the glass formulation.
- “Laminated” or “Tempered”: windshields are laminated, and most side and rear windows are tempered.
- Date code: dots or numbers that show roughly when the glass was made.
Why it matters
- Checking the bug tells you whether a previous replacement used OEM or aftermarket glass.
- Lease returns and some insurance policies care about OEM glass.
- Vehicles with cameras or heads-up displays need glass made to the right optical spec.
FAQ
Is one brand safer than another?
Every windshield sold in the U.S. has to meet the same federal safety standard. Quality and optical clarity vary more by product line than by brand name.
Can I choose the brand of my new windshield?
Often yes. Ask when you request a quote.
