cleaning auto window tint

Auto Window Tinting Aftercare

Professional Window TintingAutomotive Window Film

Proper auto window tinting aftercare is essential for maintaining the quality and longevity of your tint. At Professional Window Tinting in Newark, Delaware, we have over 30 years of experience in the automotive window tinting business. And with that experience, we have learned a thing or two about automotive window tint aftercare. We created this guide to cover crucial steps and tips for aftercare, including understanding the drying time, proper cleaning methods, and addressing common issues. Following these guidelines will ensure your tint remains in top condition, providing lasting benefits.

Understanding Drying Time for Auto Window Film

Optimal auto window tinting aftercare of our 3M window films requires a 30-day drying period, during which your windows may look hazy or bubbly. Avoid cleaning or rolling down your windows during this crucial time to ensure optimal results.

Cleaning Your Tinted Car Windows

Once the drying time is complete, you may clean your tinted car windows with normal cleaning solutions, including popular brand name cleaners. Use towels or brand name paper towels to wipe away dirt and grime. Do not use brown recycled paper towels or newspaper when cleaning your automotive window film.

Because all of our auto tinting installations are inside the vehicle, you are free to take your car through a car wash. If you have Paint Protection Film installed, please wait one or two weeks before washing your car.

Addressing Imperfections and Common Issues

At Professional Window Tinting, we minimize imperfections by tinting windows in a clean, nearly dust-free environment. This proactive measure significantly reduces the occurrence of dust particles and other imperfections during the installation process. 

However, due to the nature of our business, we cannot prevent all dirt and dust from creating small imperfections during installation. Pre-existing scratches, holes, or metal deposits in your glass may also be more noticeable after your windows are tinted.

To reduce these imperfections, we highly recommend thoroughly cleaning your vehicle (inside and out) before the window film installation (or tint your car as soon as you buy it if it is a new vehicle). This helps us provide the highest-quality installation possible. The newer the car, the fewer imperfections. 

Avoiding Imperfections After Installation

When metal objects like baby strollers and ladders touch your glass on the road, it can create silver streaks, also known as “metal rubs.” These may become more apparent after your installation so it’s best to try to avoid objects touching your car by not parking too close to other vehicles. 

In addition, you may notice excess light reflecting off your defogger lines (usually found on the rear window) after installation . While intensity varies, it is unavoidable because the film is bending to fit around your defoggers.

Watch Out for Seat Belt Chips

Make sure to carefully unbuckle your seatbelt after getting your vehicle’s windows tinted. Chips can occur in the window film with your buckle if it hits the film. This damage is not covered in your 3M warranty.

Choose 3M Window Films for the Best Automotive Tint

At Professional Window Tinting, we offer the most prestigious window films on the market. Our 3M films include:

  • Color-Stable 
  • Ceramic
  • Crystalline

Trust Professional Window Tinting in Newark, DE

Proper auto window tinting aftercare is essential to maintaining your vehicle’s window tint. At Professional Window Tinting in Newark, Delaware, we offer expert guidance and support to ensure your automotive tint remains in top condition. By following our aftercare tips, you can enjoy long-lasting results. Visit us for professional installations and quality window films – automotive, as well as residential and commercial! Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Professional Window Tinting is a family run and woman-owned business, proudly serving the MD, DE, PA, and NJ region for over 30 years. To get your free quote on commercial or residential solar window film, give us a call at (302) 456-3456 or fill out a form online.

*This post was originally published in July 2019