The Advantages of Metal Oxide Windshields 

The layer of metal oxide reflects the sun and reduces the level of visible light. This provides a range of benefits, which include: 

• Reducing heat gain inside the car; 
• Protecting the interior against ultraviolet rays; 
• Reducing glare for the driver; and 
• Assisting in de-icing and defrosting. 

Metal Oxide Windshield Disadvantages 

While metallized windshields come with their share of comfort and safety benefits, a few trade-offs must be considered. 

Have you ever experienced an issue with your toll pass or transponder not working properly? It’s an issue that has left many commuters stumped. The metal in the glass can interfere with radio waves and cause automatic toll systems, such as the EZ Pass, not to function properly. This may require an exterior device as opposed to the standard interior one most drivers use. However, some metallized windshields do have a non-metallized area around the mirror, so these devices will function properly there. 

Additionally, the level of light transmittance in the windshield can vary. Factory installations generally comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) standards, but consult the laws in your local jurisdiction before considering aftermarket options. There are strict laws about how “dark” your windshield can be. 

EZ Pass has published a list of car makes, models and years that come with metallized windshields, including certain versions of the Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Impala, Audi A6, Pontiac Transport, a range of BMWs and many other vehicles. View the full list here. 

How do I know if I have a metalized windshield? 

There are a few ways in which you can tell whether your vehicle is equipped with a metalized, or athermic windshield. The best way is to consult the owner’s manual that came with your vehicle. If your car is equipped with a metalized windshield, the manual may include information about the advantages, and where to place a transponder if the windshield was manufactured with a cutout. If your vehicle is not equipped with a metalized windshield, the manual will likely not contain any information addressing this matter. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for in the owner’s manual, a local dealership of your car’s make may be able to assist.  

Another reliable way to determine whether your car is equipped with a metalized windshield is to test it with a metalized windshield tester. These testers are offered by some toll collection companies. Sometimes you can even tell that a windshield is metalized by inspecting it, but this is not a foolproof method. Signs to look for include a purple or blue tint to the windshield, a “cut out” section around the rearview mirror where coating wasn’t applied (this allows for transponder mounting), and notations in the windshield’s bug.