Who makes glass for Ford?
Ford sources glass from several global suppliers rather than a single vendor. The main players, used across various regions in recent years, are Pilkington (NSG Group), Guardian Industries, Saint-Gobain Sekurit, and AGC Automotive. The exact mix varies by model and market and can change with new vehicle programs.
Automotive glass encompasses windshields, side glass, backlights, and related glazing components. Ford works with a network of suppliers across regions to meet production needs, regulatory requirements, and regional demand. The following overview outlines the principal suppliers and how they typically fit into Ford's global glass program.
Principal global glass suppliers for Ford
The following list highlights the major global partners Ford has relied upon in recent years to supply windshields and other glazing components.
- Pilkington (NSG Group) — a leading source for many Ford windshields and other glazing components in multiple regions.
- Guardian Industries — a major automotive glass supplier for several Ford models, particularly in North America.
- Saint-Gobain Sekurit — a key European supplier for numerous Ford vehicles, including various windshields and glass parts.
- AGC Automotive — a major supplier in Asia and other markets, providing windshields and related glazing components.
The exact mix of suppliers varies by model, region, and production year, reflecting Ford's strategy to diversify risk and optimize logistics and regulatory compliance.
Regional breakdown
North America
In North America, Ford's glazing program has relied on Pilkington for a large share of windshields and backlights, with Guardian Industries supplying additional glass components for a subset of models and trim levels. This dual-supplier approach helps Ford manage supply continuity for its U.S. and Canadian assembly plants.
Europe
Across European markets, Saint-Gobain Sekurit and Pilkington have been central to Ford’s glass sourcing, supporting models sold in the EU and UK. The European network emphasizes established automotive glass plants and regional logistics to serve factories in countries such as Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom.
Asia and other markets
In Asia and other global markets, AGC Automotive figures prominently in Ford’s glass supply for windshields and glazing. Ford sometimes supplements with local or regional partners to align with regulatory standards and local production needs.
Summary
Ford uses a diversified, regionally tailored glass-supply network that includes Pilkington (NSG Group), Guardian Industries, Saint-Gobain Sekurit, and AGC Automotive. The exact supplier mix depends on model, market, and production year, reflecting a strategy focused on reliability, regional efficiency, and cost control.
Who makes Ford OEM windshields?
Carlex has a rich history of original equipment automotive glass manufacturing. When replacing automotive glass in your old or new vehicle, you can rely on the Carlex and Carlite (Ford products) brand of glass.
What kind of glass does Ford use?
Toughened Glass is Used on the Side and Rear of the Ford F-150. Unlike the windshield, the side and rear portions of your Ford F-150 are typically made with tempered glass. Tempered glass is stronger than regular glass because it's heat-treated.
Who makes Ford glass?
Carlite is the only brand of replacement glass recommended by Ford Motor Company for your Ford or Lincoln vehicle.
Who makes Safelite auto glass?
About Safelite® Glass Corp.
Safelite® Glass Corp. is a U.S. manufacturer of replacement windshields. It operates a manufacturing facility in Enfield, N.C. as well as two distribution centers located in Ontario, Calif.
