How to Care for Car Window after Tinting

Should you mistakenly lower your window shortly after tinting, the tint film may rub against the internal components of your car door, resulting in numerous scratches. This damage might require you to redo the tinting process entirely.

What happens if I lower my windows after tinting?

Applying window tint is an affordable and straightforward way to enhance your vehicle, offering a touch of elegance and privacy. Once tinted, your car’s interior becomes less visible to outsiders, allowing you to enjoy your personal space.

Whether you’re singing along to your favorite songs, reenacting movie moments, or eating quickly, no one outside your car will notice, thanks to the tinted windows.

It’s common to forget and roll down your windows after leaving the tint shop, much like you might after a car wash. However, this can cause significant issues.

Regardless of how warm it gets inside your vehicle, resist the urge to lower your windows immediately after tinting. Even if your air conditioning isn’t functioning, keep the windows up to protect the tint.

Always adhere to the guidelines provided by your tinting professional. Typically, you’ll need to wait two to four days before lowering your windows. The drying time depends on weather conditions, with sunlight affecting how quickly the tint sets.

In colder months, such as winter, the tint may take up to a week to fully dry on your car’s windows.

What occurs if you lower your windows too soon?

The adhesive securing the tint to the glass may scrape off, leaving visible scratches and scuffs when you roll the window back up.

If you notice any damaged areas on the tint, avoid attempting repairs yourself. Instead, return to the tinting shop immediately.

Professionals at the shop are well-equipped to handle scratched or scuffed tints, as many customers inadvertently lower their windows too soon.

What else should you avoid after tinting your car’s windows?

To ensure your window tint dries flawlessly without scratches, refrain from lowering your windows during the drying period.

Here’s what to steer clear of while the tint is setting:

● As mentioned, avoid lowering your windows for several days after the tint is applied.

● Stay away from driving on dusty or gravelly roads. If the tint is still wet, particles may stick to it, potentially ruining the finish.

● Resist the temptation to touch or pop any bubbles that appear under the tint. These bubbles are a normal part of the process and will disappear on their own if left undisturbed. Tampering with them increases the risk of scratches or marks.

● Avoid washing your car until the tint has fully dried. Moisture from a car wash, rain, or even hand-washing can damage the tint if it’s still curing.

● You can safely use your air conditioner. Some believe that cold air inside the car combined with external heat might harm the tint, but cooling your car to 75°F when it’s 100°F outside won’t affect the tint.

Tint can still scratch with enough force

Once the tint is fully dry, you can lower your windows without worry, and moisture won’t pose a threat. However, the tint isn’t invincible.

Significant force, such as from an accident, can scratch or damage the tint, requiring reapplication. Additionally, intentional acts like keying the car can harm the tint.

Graded Tint Options

If you hesitated to tint your windows when you purchased your car due to concerns about reduced visibility, especially at night, but still want privacy, there’s an option for you.

A skilled tinting professional may offer graded tinting, where the tint is applied darker at the top of the window and gradually lightens toward the bottom.

The darkest portion at the top helps block glare from the sun, while the lighter bottom allows better visibility for safer driving.

Before dismissing window tinting, inquire whether your tinting service can provide a graded tint solution.

Final Thoughts

Under no circumstances should you lower your windows for several days after tinting. Avoid driving on dusty or rocky roads, and don’t touch any bubbles that form under the tint, as they’re normal and will vanish over time.

Once dry, the tint is resistant to moisture, but it can still be scratched with enough force. If you prefer a varied tint intensity, ask your tinter about graded options, which are often ideal for front and rear windows.