Why does car door glass commonly break in the summer, apart from theft?

That's an important distinction, as most people only associate car door glass breakage with theft or vandalism. But car door glass is typically made of tempered glass, which, by design, is under constant pressure and stress. It’s intended to shatter instantly upon impact, allowing for quick escape in emergencies. While this design is crucial for safety, it also makes door glass highly sensitive to temperature extremes, especially in the summer heat.

Here in the Northwest, summers can cause significant fluctuations in temperature throughout the day, putting immense stress on car door glass. I've personally encountered numerous cases where customers report spontaneous shattering while driving. A tiny piece of debris—sometimes just a pebble flicked up by another vehicle—can trigger this explosive breakage due to the tempered nature of the glass.

Additionally, more modern vehicles, particularly electric cars like Teslas, increasingly use laminated glass for side windows for improved soundproofing and safety during accidents. However, laminated windows present a different kind of risk: in an emergency scenario, like being trapped underwater or after a collision, laminated windows don't shatter easily. This could potentially trap occupants inside, creating a serious safety hazard.

My sister had a terrifying experience in her Tesla when the battery died, causing her to be trapped inside due to electrical failures. Thankfully, when a police officer broke the laminated glass, they managed to peel it back, but it never shattered as tempered glass would have. While laminated windows offer many benefits, understanding their limitations in emergency situations is crucial.

I emphasize these points to highlight the importance of choosing the right glass for your needs and being aware of these risks. During hot summer months, vehicle owners need to pay close attention to their door glass conditions. If you notice even minor damage or unusual sounds, it’s critical to address it quickly to avoid unexpected breakage. Proper education and proactive maintenance can prevent a minor issue from becoming a major safety concern.