How Long Does Car Window Tint Really Last?

Most Americans keep their cars for about 12 years. You may expect car window tint to last this long, but is it realistic?

Before investing in auto window tint, most people wonder how long window films last. Like other parts of your car, car window tint eventually wear out. However, if you choose a good quality film, you are guaranteed to get over 10 years of service out of it.

Is there anything you can do to prolong the life of your car’s window tint? In this article, we will answer this question and explore the resilience of car window films.

Factors that Affect the Lifespan of Your Automotive Tint

Each car window tint has a certain lifespan. But the following factors could determine how long your window film will last.

Quality of the Car Window Tint

The quality of your car window tint determines its longevity. If you invest in the lowest quality auto window tint, you will be surprised at how fast it degrades. 

Most cheap car window films are made of dye. If you leave your car exposed to the sun for long hours, the dye starts to fade out.

In just a few months, the new car window tint starts looking old. Its effectiveness to block the sun and keep the cabin cool reduces significantly. Also, it loses its aesthetic appeal.

The lifespan of the common hybrid auto window tint is quite impressive. Besides being affordable, it can give you about 5 years of service. To get the best out of it, you will need to take good care of it.

Metalized car window tint is arguably one of the best quality. You will pay a little bit more for it, but in return, you will get 10 or more years of service. This car auto tint looks great on your car, and it is also incredibly protective and tough.

Ceramic window tint takes the top spot in terms of automotive window film longevity. Experts attribute this to the non-conductive ceramic particles that make these windows tint.

Ceramic auto tint costs a lot more than their counterparts, but it will give you up to 20 years of service. These tints are scratch-resistant and can withstand most elements that damage car windows. 

The Climate of Where You Live

If you live in a sunny area, your automotive tint will bear the brunt of the hot sun. For this reason, it may not last as long as you’d expect.

For instance, the hybrid car window tint may fall short of its 5-year lifespan due to the constant exposure to the scorching sun.

In a region with a cooler climate, a hybrid automotive tint may surpass your expectation. It can look as good as new after many years of driving your car.

Where you Park Your Car

The sun is the number one enemy of your car window film. When you park the car in a sunny location frequently, the sun rays unrelentingly hit your automotive window tint.

Over time, the sun breaks down the constituents of the film. Besides reducing your window tint lifespan, parking your car in direct sunshine also damages the interior.

It is good practice to always park your vehicle in a garage. This protects your automotive tint and other important components of your car.

The Car Window Tint Installation Process

The process of installing your automotive tint may affect the lifespan of the window tint. Experts are flawless in car window tint installation. When you go to the professionals, you can rest assured that your car window film will last.

However, if you apply the car window tint yourself, you can make numerous errors. For example, you may trap air between the glass and the film. As a result, wrinkles and bubbles will form on the tint, and this will enfeeble the adhesion.

Therefore, your car window tint will not last as long as it should. Good dealers provide a warranty for your automotive tint.

How to Maintain Your Car Window Tint

Your window tint lifespan also partly hinges on how you look after it. Keeping your car windows clean increases the films longevity. When cleaning your window, use the right cleaners.

Expert recommended cleaners for tinted windows are the best. High-quality vinegar-glass cleaners are also ideal.

When you take good care of your car’s window tints, they’ll take care of you and your car. Here are some top automotive maintenance tips.

Avoid Cleaning Your Window Tints Immediately After Installation

Give your automotive tints time to cure after installation. Otherwise, the water will weaken their hold. Bubbles and wrinkles will form on the film and it will wear out sooner than you expect.

Do Not Use Abrasive Cleaners

Abrasive cleaners have harmful chemicals that can destroy your car window tint. Make sure that you are not using household cleaners to wash your car windows. If you are not sure about a particular cleaner, water and soap will do.

Dry Your Window Tints

Each time you clean your window film, dry it properly using a piece of cloth. Water left on the window surface will weaken the automotive tint and they will not hold for long.

Use a Soft Material for Cleaning

Rough cleaning materials will scratch and damage your tints. Use a soft piece of cloth to clean your car windows. This will help to preserve the car window tint's aesthetic appeal for a long time.

Get Your Car Window Tint From the Experts

Car window tint undoubtedly makes your car look book better. It not only protects you from the scorching sun and glare, but it also preserves your vehicle’s interior.

Do you want your car window tint to last? Talk to the experts. At Xtreme Auto Glass & Window Tint, we only source the best car window films.

We pride ourselves in providing the best automotive window tint services in Chicago and its environs. Be it ceramic, hybrid, or metalized tint, we’ve got it.

Contact us today for more information on our premium automotive tint services.