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5 Signs Your Car Has Old Window Tint

Window tints are designed to provide your vehicle with improved sun protection and aesthetics. However, the presence of cracks, chips, or discoloration may ruin your ride’s aesthetics and detract the comfort of your otherwise gorgeous vehicle.

The tint’s longevity may depend on various factors including film quality, excessive sunlight, quality of adhesives used, or the cleaner type you normally use.

All tints tire and wear over time regardless of the quality, and eventually require replacement. So, how can you tell it’s time to replace your car’s window tints? Here are some signs of aging window tint to look out for:

1. PRESENCE OF BUBBLES AND AIR BULGES

One of the earliest signs that your car tint is aging is the presence of air bubbles and bulges in between the glass window and the film. Bubbling may in the long run lead to more problems and you should replace the tint as soon as you can.

The presence of huge bubbles is a major red flag. However, small bubbles can also result in distortion. Low-quality tint is known to lead to the formation of bubbles as early as six months after installation because the adhesives start to break down prematurely. So, to lower the risk of bubbles make sure that you install a high-quality tint.

2. PURPLING AND FADING

Another big sign of aging car tint is a significant change in color. Due to the effects of the sun, your dark car tint may begin to fade out over time and lose its original shade. Change in color may also happen at an uneven rate, resulting in formation of dark and light patches all over the glass’ surface.

While all tints fade over time, higher quality films are known to retain their original color longer. Premium tints are available in a wide range of shades, and any discoloration is an indication of excessive sun damage.

If you notice any change in color of your tint, it’s advisable that you seek replacement services to keep your car comfortable and protect your privacy.

3. CURLING AND PEELING

While all types of tints wear and tear over time, they also tend to peel as the adhesives used start to lose grip. A newly installed window tint typically lies flush against the glass surface and with time you may notice the tint peeling away on the corners and edges. This may lead to screeching sounds when you’re rolling the windows up and down or even unsightly appearance on your car’s exterior.

Once your tint begins to curl and peel, the best viable option is to replace it with a new one and ensuring you use high-quality adhesives.

4. SCRATCHES AND GOUGES

Another major sin of aging window tint is the presence of scratches and scrapes on the tint surface. Even the toughest window tint is prone to wear and tear over a long period of usage.

Minor scratches and scrapes often result in only unsightly appearance, but bigger gouges can extend and significantly impact the effectiveness of adhesives between your auto glass and window tint.

Carrying large items such as bicycles, skis, or even large boxes in your car can all lead to rapid degradation of your window’s aesthetics. That’s why it’s essential to take special care to protect the tint as well as the glass.

5. INFERIOR SUN PROTECTION

The main reason for tinting your car windows is to protect your car’s interior against the harmful sun rays as well as the heat. In case you realize that the sun’s rays are beating down into your auto’s interior, this is a great indication your window tint is starting to age.

After years of usage, you may also notice temperatures in your car soaring even with the AC on during the summer. This can also be a sign your tint is losing its heat-blocking properties due to aging. The best way to improve your auto’s solar protection is by replacing your old window tint with a new tint.

Are you looking to replace your aging auto window tint? Contact us today and we’ll help improve the comfort and privacy of your car with a high-quality film.

Tyler O'Hara
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