Auto tint film is a stylish, functional addition to your vehicle, provides privacy, reduces glare and blocks harmful UV radiation. However, car window tint films have some lifespan like any other vehicle. Over time, auto tint film might start bubbling, peeling, or fading, which makes it necessary to replace it.
Replacing auto tint film requires specific techniques to remove it properly. Here, the Auto Boss window tinter will guide you on how to remove the car film. Let’s delve into the important things about window tint film removal.
When to remove auto tint film
Although auto tint film offers several benefits, such as privacy protection against external elements, there comes a time when you have to remove auto tint film:
Deteriorating or aging tint: your window tint film can deteriorate or age.
Blisters or bubbling tints: Bubbling in auto tint film when auto tint film is of low-quality sun or exposure to rain or hailing. Auto tint film causes discoloration or negatively affects its visual appeal.
Changes in personal choices: you may want to change the color or darkness level of window tint based on trends and tastes.
Legal requirement: Laws regarding window tint films differ from state to state and country to country. Non-compliance with regional laws can cause fines or penalties.
Risks involved in improper tint removal
Improper window tint removal can cause different issues, including:
Defroster lines or glass damage: Window tint films can be difficult to remove. If you mishandle car tint, it can lead to damage or scratches. While removing auto tint film may damage your vehicle’s sensitive defroster lines.
Residual Adhesive: Improper removal of window tint film may leave a residue on car windows. The residue can reduce aesthetics and visibility.
Safety concern: Partially removing window tint or leftover residue can impair your view, posing serious safety concerns.
Techniques to remove auto window tint
There can be several issues if you don’t remove your tint properly. There are two methods of eliminating auto tint.
- Do it Yourself
- Hire a professional
Let’s discuss both of the methods in detail
DIY Auto tint film removal process
Generally, Auto Boss experts recommend seeking professional assistance to remove auto tint film. However, you can remove window tint film by yourself. Our experts offer a step-by-step guide to eliminating auto-tint film.
Step 1: Arrange the necessary tools
Before starting the auto window tint removal process, ensure you have the necessary tools. The important tools in removing the auto tint film are:
- Heating resources: Hair dryer, heat gun
- A clean spray bottle
- A sharp blade/ tint scraper
- Clean or new microfiber mitt
Step 2: Methods to remove auto tint film
Steaming
Heat your auto tint film using a steamer or any other heat resource. Heating will loosen the adhesive. After you have lost enough tint, you can peel it off. Start peeling from a corner of the window tint using a plastic card, tint scraper or sharp blade.
Pro-tip: the peeling process should be very slow. Be careful, and avoid tearing off your window tinting film.
Ammonia/ water
Mix ammonia with water in equal quantities. Spray ammonia mixture to window tint. Cover the tint with a plastic sheet. Let it wet for half an hour, then peel it off.
Adhesive tape
Take wide adhesive tape and cut it into several pieces. Stick the tint pieces to the tinted window. Ensure you have covered the whole tinting film. Pull the tape forcefully. Tape will help you peel off the film and adhesive residue from your glass window.
Step 3: Remove the remaining adhesive
After removing the tint, some adhesive may be left on your glass window. Spray a water-based cleaning solution or just soapy water on the residue. Use a clean or new microfiber mitt or towel to remove the residue. If you use a tint scraper, remain careful, as it can create scratches on your glass window.
Step 4: Clean/polish
Once you remove the window tint and adhesive residue, clean the window properly with water and vinegar or glass cleaner. Wipe the glass windows to dry them using a clean, soft cloth.
Applying a glass polish to your glass window will help you to clean the glass window.
Hire professional assistance
Although DIY auto tint film removal methods can save you money, they are time-consuming. At the same time, you may damage or scratch your window glass. If you remove DIY auto tint film yourself for the first time,, you will also require specific tools.
So, if you are unsure you can remove auto tint film by yourself, Auto Boss offers the best window tinting removal services. Our cleaners have the expertise and tools to ensure quick, clean and damage-free window tint removal.
Safety precautions
When you take proper safety measures during the car tint removal process, it ensures the best results. Some of the safety measures include:
Wear protective elements: Don’t be amazed if you use ammonia or another chemical. If you don’t wear safety gloves, goggles or masks, you may hurt your body. Ammonia fumes are harmful to your lungs, and working with your hands can damage your skin.
Ensure ventilation: Ventilation is important if using heat and chemicals during window tint removal. Always work with open windows and well-ventilated areas. A ventilated area allows fresh air to pass through. It prevents the fumes buildup.
Cover interior components: Cover the electronic and interior components to avoid making a mess inside your vehicle. When you cover interior elements, it can save them from damage.
Pro tips for removing auto tint film
Here are some professional tips for removing car film.
Go very slow: Don’t haste. Keep your work slow: pay close attention to every detail. Remain patient while peeling off the tinting film.
Start peeling from the corner of the tint: While peeling off your tinting film, start peeling from the corner.
Remove the auto-tint film from the small section: Handle your tinting film carefully. It is helpful to reduce the risk of breakage.
Conclusion
Auto tint film removal can be easy, depending on your patience and car. However, it can be difficult and time-consuming when you start the process and try completing it earlier. DIY auto tint removal mistakes can lead to scratches and damaging the window glass. Professional tint removal provides you with a smooth and efficient removal process. Hiring a professional helps you remove auto tint film efficiently and error-free.
FAQs
Which way is easy to remove auto tint film?
The easiest way to remove auto-tinting film is to break down its adhesive by using heat.
Which chemicals are used to remove window tint film?
Ammonia can be used to remove car film.