Auto Glass for a Toyota Tacoma
A Tacoma is a midsize truck option manufactured by Toyota, and this particular vehicle can be useful in a number of situations and on a variety of road conditions. The auto glass for the front, rear, and side windows of your Toyota Tacoma differs in material, size, and more. Be sure to consider your cars requirements when deciding on replacement glass for your Tacoma.
What types of auto glass are available for a Tacoma?
When you replace the windshield on your Toyota, there are three main types of glass available:
- Dealership: These windshields are purchased directly from authorized dealers, and they produce pieces designed specifically to fit your exact model of Tacoma.
- OEM: OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, and these replacement windshields are held to strict standards. OEM windshields are high in quality and built by third-party companies.
- Aftermarket: Aftermarket windshields are a cost-effective option when you replace auto glass. These windshields come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, so you should be able to find one that fits your auto.
How do you install a side window on a Tacoma?
First, ensure that you have the correct piece of glass to fit your specific Toyota. Then, remove the door panel on the inside of the truck by removing all screws that are holding it in place. Screws can often be found near the armrest, by the speakers, and around the outside of the panel. There may also be clips holding the panel in place.
After removing the panel, remove the old window by sliding it out from its mount. You may have to loosen the clip located in the middle of the door frame to remove the glass. If the auto glass youre replacing is broken, be careful to remove all the pieces and use a vacuum to ensure that no pieces remain. Install the replacement piece of glass by sliding it into place and tightening the clip in the door to hold it in place. Reinstall the door panel and the other parts.
What kinds of glass are used on a Tacoma?
- Tempered: Tempered auto glass is produced by heating a piece of glass and rapidly cooling it. This causes it to be stronger than it was originally. Tempered products are installed on the side and rear windows, and they are designed to split into dull-edged pieces when they break to ensure your safety in an accident.
- Laminated: Laminated glass is utilized for the front windshield because it is extremely strong. It is created by placing a layer of polyvinyl butyral between two pieces of glass and heating and rolling them together. Laminated glass is strong enough to provide extra support to the roof of a Tacoma in case of a rollover, and it is also able to withstand the impact of an airbag, which can generate nearly 2,000 pounds of force.