What type of glass is used in all car windows EXCEPT the windshield?

The type of glass used in all car windows, except for the windshield, is typically tempered glass. This kind of glass is specifically treated to increase its strength compared to regular glass, allowing it to shatter into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury in the event of a breakage.

In the case of windshields, laminated glass is used instead of tempered glass. Laminated glass consists of two layers of glass with a plastic interlayer, which helps hold the glass together in the event of a collision and provides additional protection from UV rays and noise.

Understanding the properties of tempered glass helps in recognizing its widespread use in side windows and rear windows of vehicles, where the risk of injury from glass shards is a concern. This makes tempered glass the default choice for those windows, ensuring safety and strength without compromising visibility.