4 Ways To Remove Window Tint From Car Windows

Window tint can provide privacy and protection from harmful UV rays, but over time the tint can fade, bubble, or peel. If this happens it is best to remove the old tint before applying a new one. Here is the process of removing window tint from your car windows using 4 different methods.

Remove Car Window Tint – 4 Methods

Easy ways to remove window tint from car windows:

1. Using a hair dryer or heat gun: Heat the tinted area with a hair dryer or heat gun to melt the adhesive, making it easier to peel off. Start from a corner and work your way across the window.
2. Soap and water method: Apply soapy water to the window and use a plastic scraper or razor blade to gently peel off the tint. Be careful not to damage the glass or defroster lines.

4 Window Tint Removal Methods

1. Soap And Water Tint Removal Method
2. Using Heat To Remove The Tint
3. Removing The Tint With A Steamer
4. Use Ammonia To Remove Tint

Gather The Necessary Materials

Before getting started, it’s important to gather the necessary materials to make the job easier and more efficient. You will need…

• A heat gun or hair dryer
• A clothes steamer (optional)
• A razor blade or plastic scraper
• A spray bottle filled with soapy water
• A clean lint-free cloth or microfiber towel
• A window cleaner
• A trash bag or drop cloth

Preparation And Safety Measures

To avoid any potential damage to your car’s interior or exterior, take the following precautions.

1. Park your car in a shaded area or garage to prevent direct sunlight.
2. Place a trash bag or drop cloth on the ground beneath the window to catch any debris.
3. Roll down the window slightly to make it easier to access the edges.
4. Always wear gloves to protect your hands from potential cuts or burns during the process.

Tint Removal Soap And Water Method

To remove window tint from car windows using soap and water, start by filling a spray bottle with a mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.

1. Park your car in a shaded area to prevent the sun from drying out the soap solution too quickly.
2. Roll down the window slightly to expose the top edge of the tint film.
3. Carefully spray the soap solution onto the window tint, ensuring that it is completely saturated.
4. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes, softening the adhesive on the tint film.
5. Then, use a plastic scraper or an old credit card to gently lift the top edge of the tint film away from the glass.
6. Once you’ve created a gap, hold the film with one hand and use the scraper with the other hand to slowly peel the tint away from the window while continuing to spray the soap solution to keep the adhesive wet.
7. Be patient and avoid excessive force to prevent tearing the film or damaging the defroster lines.
8. Once the tint film is completely removed, clean the window thoroughly with the soap solution and a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining adhesive residue, and then dry the window with a clean cloth.

How to EASILY Remove Window Tint

Using Heat To Remove The Tint

Follow these steps to remove the window tint using the heat method.

1. Spray the exterior of the window with soapy water. This will help dissipate the heat and prevent the glass from getting too hot, which can cause it to crack.
2. Turn on the heat gun or hair dryer and set it to the highest heat setting. Hold it about 4-6 inches away from the window, moving it in a back-and-forth motion to evenly heat the tint.
3. As the tint softens, use a razor blade or plastic scraper to gently lift a corner of the tint. Be careful not to scratch the glass.
4. Pull the tint away from the window slowly and evenly, continuing to apply heat as needed. If the tint tears or becomes difficult to remove, reheat the area and try again.
5. Once the tint is completely removed, there may be adhesive residue left on the window. Spray the area with soapy water and use a razor blade or plastic scraper to remove the residue.

Removing The Tint With A Steamer

If you prefer not to use a heat gun or hair dryer, you can use a clothes steamer to remove the window tint. Here’s how.

1. Fill the steamer with water, plug it in, and let it heat up.
2. Hold the steamer about 4-6 inches away from the window, moving it in a back-and-forth motion to evenly steam the tint.
3. Once softened, remove the tint and any adhesive residue.

Ways to Remove Window Tint and Glue

Remove Window Tint With Ammonia

To remove window tint from your car windows using an ammonia-based cleaner, begin by parking your car in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors or in an open garage, as ammonia fumes can be harmful when inhaled in closed spaces. Protect your hands with rubber gloves and your eyes with safety goggles.

1. Spray the exterior of the tinted window with soapy water and gently scrape off any dirt or debris using a non-abrasive cloth or sponge.
2. Cut a garbage bag to the size of the window, and spray the interior side of the window with the ammonia-based cleaner. While the window is still wet, press the garbage bag onto the window, ensuring it adheres well. The bag will help retain the ammonia’s moisture and heat, softening the tint adhesive.
3. Leave the bag in place for at least 30 minutes to an hour. In the meantime, cover any nearby surfaces or upholstery with plastic sheets to protect them from ammonia drips.
4. After allowing the ammonia to work its magic, carefully peel off the garbage bag and use a plastic scraper or a fingernail to lift a corner of the tint film. Gently pull the film away from the window, ensuring the adhesive remains attached to the film. If needed, apply more ammonia solution to stubborn areas and use the scraper to remove any remaining adhesive residue.
5. Clean the window thoroughly with soapy water and a microfiber cloth, then buff dry to reveal a clear, tint-free window.

Cleaning The Car Windows

After removing the window tint and adhesive residue, it’s important to thoroughly clean the window.

1. Spray the window with a window cleaner and wipe it down with a clean, lint-free cloth or microfiber towel.
2. Inspect the window for any remaining adhesive residue. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process until the window is completely clean.
3. Roll the window up and down a few times to ensure that it operates smoothly and no debris was left in the window track.

With the right tools and methods you can effectively remove old or damaged tint. Your car will have clear tint-free windows and be ready to apply new window tint.