How to Remove Old & Dried Window Tint
Window tint is actually composed of two layers: the tint itself and a plastic layer that carries the adhesive. To successfully remove old and dried window tint, you need to remove both of the layers at the same time using sunlight and household chemicals. Patience is the key here, as the combination of heat and ammonia will help you to remove the tint in one piece.
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Things You'll Need
- Black plastic bag
- Scissors
- Spray bottle with water
- Spray bottle with ammonia
- Tape
- Razor blade
- Fine steel wool
- Glass cleaner
- Paper towels
- Mask
Instructions
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1
Wait for a warm, sunny day. Park your car so that the window you're working with is directly facing the sun.
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2
Clear the window of any obstructions. In a rear window, for example, you will need to move the rear brake lights.
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3
Spray water on the outside of the window. Cover the window up with black plastic, such as a garbage bag so that it matches the shape of the window. Trim away any excess.
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4
Spread a dropcloth or tarp over the car upholstery around the window. Spray ammonia on the tinted window inside of the car.
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5
Tape the plastic covering that you made in Step 3 on the inside of the window to seal in the ammonia.
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6
Let the car sit in the sun with the bag in place for an hour or so.
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7
Remove the plastic bag. Peel the tint from the corners with a razor blade. Spray ammonia on the tint if it begins to dry out as you peel.
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8
Scrub any remaining adhesive off with ammonia and very fine steel wool. Clean the window with glass cleaner and paper towels.
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Tips & Warnings
Ammonia can be harmful if inhaled for an extended period. Wear a mask while spraying.
References
- Photo Credit auto image by jasmina nemanjic from Fotolia.com
