How to Remove Window Tint: Step-by-Step Instructions

Tinted car windows provide glare protection, privacy, and style, but the tint eventually expires. Removing window tint improperly leaves behind a big sticky mess.

The best removal method depends on why you’re removing the film. Heat or scraping methods can both be used successfully. Read on to learn the various techniques for properly removing old window tint from your car.

Window Tint Removal

With our step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to tackle this task with confidence and ensure a clean and successful removal process. 

#1. Roll Window Down.

To begin the window tint removal process, it’s important to roll down the window slightly. This creates a small gap that allows for better access to the edges of the window tint. Rolling down the window also makes it easier to peel off the tint.

By doing this, you can ensure that you have a clear working area and can easily remove the tint without any hassle. It’s a simple yet effective step in the overall window tint removal process.

#2. Grab Your Steamer.

When it comes to removing window tint, using a professional steamer is most effective, but a clothing steamer will also work. The first step is to apply heat to the window tint using the steamer.

This heat makes the tint more pliable and easier to remove. As the steam interacts with the adhesive, it helps to loosen it, making it easier to lift and peel off the tint.

By using a steamer, you can simplify the removal process and ensure that the window tint comes off smoothly. It’s a great option for those looking to remove window tint without damaging their windows or spending too much time on the task.

#3. Start Peeling (Be Careful).

To begin removing the window tint, carefully lift and peel the corner using a razor blade. Take your time as you work your way around the edges, gradually peeling off the tint from the window.

Remember, it’s important to approach this step with caution to avoid any damage to the window itself.

By using a razor blade, you’ll have more control and be able to remove the tint more effectively. Take your time and make sure to peel slowly to ensure the best results.

#4. Slowly Start Pulling.

Once you have successfully lifted the corner of the window tint, it’s time to carefully and gradually pull it off. Make sure to do this slowly and evenly to avoid any potential tearing or damage to the window or defroster.

Taking your time during this step is crucial to ensure a smooth removal process. By pulling the window tint away from the window with patience and care, you can prevent any unwanted mishaps and achieve a clean removal.

Remember, it’s important to be mindful of the window and defroster while pulling off the tint.

#5. Remove Glue Residue.

To remove any remaining glue residue after removing the window tint, you can use adhesive remover. Gently wipe away the residue by either using a scraper or a cloth soaked in adhesive remover.

This step is important to ensure that the window is clean and free from any sticky residue. By using the adhesive remover, you can effectively remove the glue residue without damaging the window or the defroster.

Take your time and use gentle motions to ensure a thorough removal of the residue.

How to Remove Window Tint with Heat (3 Methods)

Heat is an excellent way to loosen intact film, although it may require some scraping to fully remove the film. Generally, you will need minimal use of a scraper for these methods.

#1. Hairdryer or Heat Gun

How to Remove Window Tint

This is an easy way to remove tint or car decals and works equally well with a heat gun, although it can get a little messy. You’ll want to pick a corner to start the process.

  1. Hold the hairdryer about two inches from the window and run it on high until the glue melts enough to pry the edge up with your fingernail.
  2. Angle the dryer so it hits where the film and window meet, slowly peeling as the glue softens.
  3. Using a clean towel, rub the adhesive away, using your hairdryer to soften it as needed.
  4. Once the glue’s removed, wash the car windows with cleaner.

#2. Steam Cleaning.

Perhaps the best way to remove window tint is to grab a fabric steamer. After several minutes of steaming the window, you’ll melt the glue and the tint will come right off.

One great thing about this method is the excuse to also clean your car’s upholstery. Once the tint is off, you just have a bit of glue to contend with.

Here’s an excellent video of removing vehicle window tint with the steam method:

#3. Solar Peel.

You can take advantage of a warm, sunny day to make your job easier. You’ll need two black plastic garbage bags cut to the shape of your window, a spray bottle of soapy water, tarp, and a spray bottle of ammonia.

  1. Spray the outside of the window with soapy water and cover with one of the bags, smoothing it out until it’s flat.
  2. Cover all interior surfaces near with tarp to protect them.
  3. Spray ammonia on the inside of the window, making sure to wear a protective mask so you won’t inhale the fumes. Cover with the second trash bag before the ammonia can dry.
  4. Allow the window to bake in the sunlight for at least 20 minutes before removing the bags
  5. Dig up a corner of the film and gently peel the tint away, spritzing with ammonia as needed to keep it moist.
  6. Use a non-metallic scraper to remove any leftover tint, then use one of the cleanup methods below to get rid of the residue.

How to Remove Window Tint Without Heat (Scraping Method)

These options all involve taking off car window tint using primarily sharp objects. While they all work well, you should take extra care to avoid scratching the glass when using any type of blade. Non-metallic scrapers work best on plastic windows.

A Note on Using Sharp Blades: We strongly urge you to use caution when removing tint film from any window with a metallic scraper. While using a knife or razor blade might work a bit better than a plastic blade such as an ice scraper, there’s a much higher risk of damaging the glass.

In the event you need to use a sharp blade, remember to always hold it at an angle to avoid damaging the glass. But if needing to remove tint on your rear window, NEVER use a scraping method. Otherwise, you’ll damage the delicate window defroster lines and end up with a non-function rear defroster.

#4. Papers, Please.

Old newspapers have a lot of uses, including window tint removal. Thoroughly wet the tint film with hot, soapy water and cover in newspaper. Let the window soak in the sun for at least an hour, adding more soapy water every 20 minutes.

You should now be able to carefully scrape away the tint using long strokes. In the event you can’t remove the film easily, simply soak for another half hour.

#5. Peel’n’Soak.

The slowest method is also the best choice for small areas or problem windows. Carefully cut an edge using a razor blade and peel the film away. Don’t worry about messy edges.

Once the film is off, spray the area with soapy water and scrape away the glue. Finish off with a good round of glass cleaner.

Removing Window Tint Glue

Finally, you’ll need to know how to remove window tint glue once the tint itself is gone. This doesn’t always happen as efficiently as one would hope. These methods all work well against any remaining gunk.

Alcohol

One of the cheapest and most effective solvents out there, a bottle of 90 percent isopropyl alcohol can make quick work of leftover glue.

Put some on a rag to get rid of smaller spots and a spray bottle and rag for larger surfaces. Be sure to use this method in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing in the fumes as you work.

Isopropyl alcohol is also great for removing oily residue from the inside windshield.

Goo Gone

This popular glue remover works great against leftover tint glue. Note that it won’t help with removing the tint itself.

Nail Polish Remover

A surprisingly useful solvent, you can use nail polish remover  a microfiber cloth, and some elbow grease to remove the glue. While this method requires some additional effort, the process will buff your windows to a beautiful sheen.

Scrubbing

On a warm day or in a heated garage, you can use hot, soapy water (we suggest using Dawn) and a car ice scraper to get rid of the glue residue. Not only is this a safe method, it’s also a good excuse to clean the car’s interior.

Reasons to Remove Tint

There are three major reasons to try and get rid of the tint on your car windows, each posing their own sets of challenges. The same challenges also apply to old PPF if your car has had that applied at some point.

Aesthetic Reasons

Sometimes you just don’t want tinted windows, even though they’re in pristine condition. This can be most frustrating, since the adhesive is likely at its strongest. However, heat methods work well against undamaged tint film.

Bubbling

Bubbling film not only looks horrible, there’s no way to fix it. The first instinct you might have is to peel where it’s bubbling, but this can leave an even less attractive mess of glue and tint chunks.

On the bright side, the bubbles are caused by failing adhesive, making it a little easier to remove.

Discoloration

Over time, window tint will turn a purplish shade and you’ll want to consider replacing it. As the tint’s ability to block UV rays diminishes the more it changes to purple, the issue is more than simply an aesthetic one.

This change in color is due to the breakdown of non-metallic dyes and cannot be repaired. Again, heat is an excellent way to deal with this problem.

How Much Does Window Tint Removal Cost?

The average cost for professional window tint removal usually falls between $100 and $400 for a standard car.

That’s a pretty big range, right? It really comes down to a few things like the size of your car, how many windows you’re having done, and whether your tint is in good shape or a hot mess.

Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect for different vehicles:

  • Compact Cars (like a Honda Civic): Around $100 – $150
  • Sedans (4-door cars): About $150 – $250
  • SUVs and Trucks: Typically $200 – $400
  • Luxury or Exotic Vehicles: $300 – $500 or more

Keep in mind, these are estimates for professional tint removal, which means the job is done carefully without damaging your glass or defroster lines. If your tint is in rough shape, that can also affect the final price.