How to remove old window tint

If you have a car with tinted windows, you may eventually need to replace the tint. Bubbling or a purple tone are sure signs that your window tint needs to be redone, but before you can apply your new car window tint, you need to get rid of the old. Window tint consists of two layers, and when you are removing it you should ideally avoid separating the two layers. If the upper layer comes away from the lower, you will end up with a flaky layer that is more difficult to get off.

There are several different options for removing old window tint:

Steamer

If you have or can get hold of a steamer, this is probably the simplest way of removing old tint. Follow the equipment instructions for setting up, then steam your car window until the adhesive begins to melt and the tint can be peeled off. When you have peeled off all of the tint, apply an adhesive remover to the screen to clean it fully.

Ammonia

This approach can only be used on a warm sunny day. First park your car in a position so that the relevant window is facing the sun. Coat the outside of your window with soapy water and cover with one or more black plastic bags, as smoothly as possible. Cover up the interior close to the window to avoid any damage to surfaces. Protect yourself with a face mask then spray plenty of undiluted ammonia onto the window to ensure complete coverage. Place a sheet of plastic over the window so that the ammonia will not evaporate. Leave for one hour. Use a razor blade to peel away the tinted film. If you are removing tint from the rear window you will need to be very careful to ensure that you do not damage the demister. Apply more ammonia if needed.

Soaking with soapy water

This basic method is slower, but is a good option if you don’t want to use ammonia and don’t have access to a steamer. Use a razor blade to cut into the tint and peel off the film layer. Spray soapy water on the remaining layer of adhesive and scrape it off carefully.

Whichever method you choose, the important thing is to do a thorough job so that your car is prepared for you to apply your new car window tint.

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