Cleaning tinted windows may seem like a long, arduous process. However, there are several things you can do to keep your tinted windows clean now and in the future. Below you’ll find everything you need to know about how to clean your tinted windows.
Tinted windows contain a laminate film on their surface to protect you and your car’s interior against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays that cause sunburn, premature aging, and interior fading. These windows can also increase your vehicle’s resale value and give you additional privacy while you’re behind the wheel.
You can buy a car that includes tinted windows or have window tint installed professionally. Regardless, tinted windows must be cleaned properly on a regular basis.
Dirt, dust, and other debris can accumulate on tinted windows. If left unaddressed, debris can make tinted windows appear hazy and cloudy. Even worse, debris can hamper your ability to see through your windows, increasing your risk of a car accident.
If you have a professional install tinted windows, wait at least three days before you clean them. Doing so can damage or ruin your tint. You should also avoid lowering your windows during this period.
Clean your tinted windows periodically. If your windows limit your visibility while driving, take a few minutes to clean them.
When cleaning tinted windows, use the following:
Ammonia causes tint to bubble and discolor and/or become hazy or brittle. If you consistently apply an ammonia-based cleaner to your windows, the tint will eventually peel off.
Here are three steps you can use to clean your car’s tinted windows:
Sun can dry your car too quickly, which can make it difficult to properly clean your tinted windows. Before cleaning, park your car in the shaded area.
Open your doors and apply cleaner to your windows.
Wipe down your windows like so:
After you complete these steps, walk around your car and review your work. Keep an eye out for any window streaks and address them as needed. You can also move your car back into the sun to verify that all cleaning residue has been removed from your windows.
Here are some of the best and worst things you can do to get the best results out of cleaning your tinted windows:
Along with these do’s and don’ts for cleaning your tinted windows, maintenance is key. If you clean your tinted windows regularly, you can avoid hazy or cloudy spots that otherwise hamper your vision while driving.
Proper maintenance can help you maximize the lifespan of your window tint. Here are three tips to help you get the most value out of your tinted windows.
Keep your car parked in a garage or in the shade as much as possible. This limits the risk of prolonged sun exposure that can damage your window tint.
Clean your tinted windows weekly or monthly. For a light cleaning, use a combination of warm water, dish soap, and a soft microfiber cloth. For a deeper clean, use an ammonia-free glass cleaner.
To get your tinted windows professionally cleaned, we recommend seeking out a business that specializes in window tinting. Such specialists can install and clean window tint, and may even repair damage to window tint to ensure that your vehicle looks great. Fix Auto USA does not offer any window tinting-related services, but if you need assistance locating such a business in the area, we can help.
Alternatively, if you need collision repair or other auto body work, Fix Auto USA can resolve your problems. Our network of auto body shops provides end-to-end services in cities and towns across the United States. Find a Fix Auto USA location near you today.
This blog post was contributed by Fix Auto Berkeley, a leading industry expert and collision repair shop servicing the San Francisco Bay area.
