How to Maintain Your Car’s Window Tint

Once you have your window tint installed, how do you make sure to keep your windows well maintained? Here's a quick guide to help.

You finally went ahead and had window tint installed on your car. It looks great, and you can't wait to start reaping the benefits. 



After all, window tints help protect you and your passengers from harsh UV rays. It keeps your car cooler, protects your vehicle's interior, and shields your eyes from the glare of the sun. 

That said, if you want to keep your car tints looking great for years to come, you need to properly care for them. Avoid careless mistakes and learn how to extend the lifespan of your vehicle's window tints in this guide. 

Wait to Wash the Windows

After having your car window tint installed, you need to let them cure or dry. It can take anywhere from a few days to a month for this to occur. 

Washing the windows prior to letting them cure can add moisture that will impede the drying process. It's best to wait until you're sure that the tint has completely dried. 

The time it takes window tints to dry is shorter in summer, but the cure time can take longer in winter and when it's rainy. 

Make sure you give those windows enough time to cure before hitting the car wash. 

Use the Right Cleaning Tools

The last thing you want to do is scratch or damage your window tint after having it installed. Avoid harsh cleaners and make sure you use ammonia-free products, as ammonia can cause discoloration and dry out the tint. 

Skip the abrasive cleaners as well, including baking soda and vinegar. These can scratch and damage your windows. 

Warm water and mild soap are fine if you don't find an ammonia-free product you like. Use a soft microfiber towel or cloth rather than paper towels. Paper products can scratch the surface and leave dust behind, which becomes a nuisance to clean up. 

Clean your car windows when it's cool and outside of direct sunlight. Parking your car and cleaning the windows in the sun causes the cleaner to dry too quickly, which can cause streaks. 

Be careful around the edges of your tinted windows, as you don't want water to get underneath the tinting. This can result in the tint peeling away. 

Wipe the windows vertically and then horizontally to ensure you clean the entire surface. Start with a clean cloth and use separate towels for washing and drying. 

Ensure the windows are completely dry after cleaning them to prevent any moisture from impeding the hold the tint has on the glass. 

Look for Imperfections

When you first have window tints installed, they might look hazy. This is completely normal and part of the curing process. The moisture between the glass and the film can create a hazy or streaky appearance.

This haze and any bubbles you see should disappear after a couple of days or after the curing process has finished. Be patient during this time. 

After the curing process, the windows should be clear. If you notice any imperfections, such as bubbles or creases, you can remove them with a plastic card or a squeegee. Wrap the card in a microfiber cloth to prevent any scratches or damage. 

Never use razor blades or any sharp objects if you notice imperfections! These blades can scratch and damage the tint. Damaged window film can't be repaired. 

Wait to Roll Down the Windows

Keep the windows rolled up during the curing process. It's generally recommended you wait at least 24 hours before rolling the windows down. In some cases, you may need to wait up to four days. Ask your installer about their recommendations to avoid making any mistakes that could affect the tint. 

However, you may have to wait longer depending on where you live and the weather conditions. Make sure the windows have completely dried before you roll them down. 

Clean off Tree Sap and Bird Droppings

It's inevitable that your car will become a target for bird droppings at some point. The pH level of those droppings can damage the clear coating and paint on your car. You'll want to clean them off your windows, too. 

Pine needles and tree sap can also gunk up your windows and ruin your paint. 

Although in most cases window tints are applied inside, keeping your windows clean ensures maximum visibility. Plus, clean windows keep your vehicle looking good! 

Avoid Scratching the Windows 

We already mentioned avoiding razor blades and other sharp objects. However, simply being careless inside the vehicle can cause damage as well. 

Try not to fling your seatbelt off, as the buckle may hit the window and scratch the tint. Be sure to tell your kids as well. 

Tossing bags and purses with metal parts into the car can also sometimes hit the window. 

Treat your vehicle with respect, and make sure your passengers take extra care around the windows. If you do, you can make them last longer. 

Know When to Replace Window Tint

Standard tint films last around five years. However, the higher the quality of the window tint, the longer it will last. Nano-ceramic window tints can last up to ten years with the right maintenance and care. 

Higher-end tints can last for the entire lifespan of your vehicle. 

Old, scratched, and damaged window tint needs to be replaced. 

Thinking About Tinting Your Windows? 

Window tint has many benefits, such as protecting you from the sun's UV rays, preventing your interior from fading, and keeping you cooler. Tinted windows also look sleek and can transform your vehicle's appearance. 

Just be sure to use these maintenance tips to maximize the lifespan of those windows. 

Are you thinking about tinting your car windows soon? Boca Tint & Audio is your go-to for car electronics and window tinting here in the Boca Raton area. Get a free estimate today to take that first step.