I’m a car expert – here are why the black dots on your windscreen are so important
CAR experts have revealed why the small black dots on your motor’s windscreen are so important.
Petrol and diesel motorists have been warned about the spots, which do an important job when it comes to protecting your car.
Experts at Autoglaze said the dots are “underrated” by Brits, who don’t realise they help regulate the car temperature and hold the glass in place.
The black dots are called a “frit” and are usually found on the outer edges of the front windscreen near an enamel bar, found on almost every car in the UK.
They explained: “The black dots, or dot matrix, actually help distribute temperature evenly to lessen optical distortion.
“This happens when the frit band (the solid black one) heats up much faster than the windscreen’s glass, creating an optical distortion that makes either straight lines look curved or bowed inwards toward the centre.
“Those ‘gradually sinking’ black dots help lessen this phenomenon by dissipating the heat and spreading it out evenly.”
Max Auto Glass also said that the black enamel and dots are vital for keeping the windscreen stuck down.
The enamel bar replaced a chrome trim that was axed from car manufacturing around 60 years ago.
Adhesives are now used to keep the glass in place, and the “frit” band is needed to keep them secure and protect the glue.
They explained that it “helps ensure that the adhesive can form a strong bond all the way around the windshield to properly hold it in place”.
Both experts also said the dots prevent drivers from seeing the adhesive along the frame which creates a “polished appearance”.
Another car expert has shared the secret feature on your key fob which can start your car instantly.
And you don’t even need to be in the vehicle at the time.
One motor enthusiast warned which vehicles you should avoid buying because they are a complete “bust”.