Over time, even the best car window tint films will start to show their age. If your windows start showing any bubbling, peeling, discolouration, or a purplish hue, it means that your tint is due for a replacement.
Getting your old window tint removed and re-tinted is a best practice for many car owners. Not only do old tints make your car look tired, but they are also not safe. This is a delicate process that needs to be done properly so that you don’t scratch your car window.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove old tint from a car window at home, using easy-to-find tools and simple techniques.
It’s worth understanding why removing old tint is more of a necessity than you think. Here are the main reasons:
To remove your old car window tint, here’s a list of essential tools and products you’ll need in your home:
Before you get started, here’s a few advice on how to remove your tint efficiently:
Now that we’ve covered all the basics, here’s how to remove your window tints, step-by-step.
Start by applying heat to the window tint using a heat gun - a hair dryer works too! Hold it a few centimetres away from the glass and move in slow, circular motions. This softens the adhesive and makes peeling easier, which is the next step.
Once heated, use your utility knife or razor blade to lift a corner of the tint film. Be patient here, as ripping your film too quickly may leave more adhesive behind (i.e. more work for you later).
Slowly peel back the film using your hands. If it begins to tear, reapply heat and continue. You can also use the razor blade gently to help guide stubborn sections. However, be careful not to scratch the glass, especially when you’re peeling near the edges.
Now comes the messiest part. Spray the adhesive with ammonia or a commercial window tint adhesive remover. Then, cover the area with a garbage bag or plastic sheet and let it sit for 30 - 60 minutes. You need to do this to soften any stubborn adhesive.
After a while, check if the adhesive is soft enough and use your razor blade or a plastic scraper to gently remove it. Removing tint glue is tricky, so you’ll need to repeat the spraying and scraping as needed. Be patient during this step!
Once all the adhesive is removed, give your windows a good clean. Spray the window with a soap solution or glass cleaner and wipe thoroughly with a microfiber cloth so that all the dirt is removed.
If the heat-and-peel method isn’t working for your particular tint, here are a few other options to consider:
As much as we’d like to DIY our vehicle projects, there are times when removing your car window tint isn’t always straightforward. You should consider getting it professionally removed if the tint is very old or layered, making it harder to peel.
Windows with defroster lines are also tricky to peel, and can be damaged if you’re not careful. Lastly, if you don’t have the time or tools to do the job, it's easier to call in a professional.
As a local car window tinting specialist in the Mornington Peninsula, we’ve seen plenty of tint removal jobs go sideways when they are poorly attempted without the right tools or experience. This is especially true when dealing with cheaper, low-quality tint films that were poorly installed to begin with.
Removing old tint from car windows can be done when it’s straightforward, but it’s not always the case. If you’re considering removing your old window tint yourself, remember to be patient and use the right tools to avoid scratching your windows.
And if things get tricky, or if you’re looking for a professional re-tint, our team is here to help. With expert service and high-quality tint films, our team can remove any old tints and give your car a fresh new tint that’ll last for years.
Peninsula Tint and Paint Protection offers expert tint removal and professional high-quality tint installation for all car windows. We pride ourselves on reliable, friendly service built on 17 years of experience.
For all your car tinting needs and queries, please contact a member of our friendly customer support team below for a FREE quote.