Getting your car windows tinted in Orlando is a sure-fire way to enhance its appearance, add privacy and protection from heat and glare. However, after the window film is installed, and your car is no longer in the hands of a professional tint installer, it’s essential to take the right steps to ensure it lasts.

Just like any other car upgrade, tinted windows require some care and attention, especially when choosing the right type of window cleaner. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the essential tips and steps to properly care for your newly installed 3M window tint from Pro Tint of Orlando.

1. Allow The Window Tint to Cure Properly (Don’t roll down the windows!)

After installation, it’s crucial to give your freshly-installed 3M window tint time to fully cure and bond with the auto glass. We recommend waiting at least three (3) days before rolling down your windows in sunny conditions. If it’s cold or parked inside, sometimes an additional day or two is needed to ensure all of the moisture is out of the glass. This is because environmental factors like temperature and humidity can slow down the process.

Fortunately, in Florida, it’s sunny and warm for most of the year. During the initial 3-7 day drying period, the window film is still adhering to the glass, so rolling the windows down too early can cause the film to lift, bubble, or wrinkle. It may take up to thirty (30) days for the film to completely cure in some cases.

2. Avoid Cleaning the Windows Right Away

While it might be tempting to clean your newly tinted car windows, it’s important to wait at least 3-5 days after the tint is installed before doing so. This gives the adhesive in the film enough time to set properly. If you must clean your car’s windows, use a soft cloth to wipe away any excess moisture, but avoid using any cleaning products or abrasive materials.

3. Use a Gentle Cleaning Solution

Once your 3M window tint has had sufficient time to cure, you can now choose to clean your tinted windows. However, it’s essential to use the right cleaning product for the job. Harsh chemicals, ammonia-based cleaners, or abrasive scrubbing tools or pads can damage the film, causing it to discolor, scratch, peel, or bubble.

To clean your windows, we recommend a mild, non-ammonia based tint cleaner. Or, you can make your own solution by mixing water and a small amount of dish soap. Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to gently wipe down the glass. Avoid rough towels, paper towels, or any material that could scratch the tint. Don’t put a lot of pressure on the glass either. Gently wipe the dirt or debris from the glass.

4. Avoid Using Sharp Tools or Suction Cups

Many drivers like to use a SunPass or E-Pass to easily pay for their tolls. However, newly installed window tint is vulnerable to suction cups and stickers because the film hasn’t yet completely adhered to the glass. We recommend car owners to not attach these devices to your newly tinted windshield for at least seven to fourteen (7-14) days to allow the film to cure.

Additionally, radar detectors and mobile phone mounts are commonly attached to car windshields. These can be very heavy, and put a lot of pressure on the film. Even after 30 days have passed, there is still some risk from these suction cups, especially when being the device is being moved, to cause damage to the film.

We shouldn’t have to say this, but sharp tools such as razors and knives should be kept far away from tinted windows. They can very easily scratch or cut through the film, resulting in irreparable damage.

5. Inspect for Bubbles and Imperfections

After professional window tint installation, it’s common to see some bubbles or streaks under the film. These are usually air pockets or moisture trapped between the film and the glass, and they’ll disappear as the tint cures. However, if the bubbles persist for more than thirty (30) days or you notice other imperfections like peeling or discoloration, bring your car back to Pro Tint of Orlando and our installers will examine it.

6. Avoid Placing High Pressure on Newly Tinted Auto Glass

3M Window tint, while very durable, can be damaged if subjected to high pressure during the initial drying period. Avoid leaning against the tinted windows or pressing hard against the surface, especially while cleaning. High pressure could cause the tint to shift, wrinkle, or peel away from the glass.

7. Regular Maintenance Equals Long-Lasting Tint

To keep your newly installed 3M car window tint looking its best for years to come, incorporate regular tint maintenance into your car care routine. Clean the windows as needed with a gentle soap and water solution and a soft cloth. Avoid using sharp objects, such as window scrapers or hard tools, to remove dirt or debris, as these could easily scratch the film.

Conclusion

Pro Tint of Orlando recommends following these instructions for newly installed car window tint to ensure it remains in optimal aesthetic condition and peak performance for its entire lifespan. By following these seven simple tips—such as allowing the tint to cure, using the right cleaning products, and avoiding using sharp tools near the film, any car owner can enjoy the benefits of 3M automotive window tint for years to come.

Regular maintenance will also help preserve the appearance and functionality of your tinted car windows, making sure that your investment in high quality tint remains a valuable one.

Pro Tint of Orlando: Central Florida’s Most Award-Winning 3M Pro Shop Dealer

At Pro Tint of Orlando, we specialize in providing industry-leading 3M window films, paint protection film, and color change vinyl wrapping solutions to our customers in Central Florida. We guarantee all of our automotive window tint installations through a lifetime national warranty backed by 3M Corporation.

As Orlando’s only authorized 3M Pro Shop Dealer, we offer superior product knowledge and expertise with 3M’s automotive, commercial and residential product lines.

Our hard work and diligent service to the Central Florida community has earned us multiple awards, including being recognized as the #1 3M Automotive Window Tint Dealer in the United States.

Additionally, every year from 2019 – 2023 we have been awarded for our excellence in service, quality and innovation as a 3M Pro Shop Dealer.

Just give us a call at (407) 841-2123 or visit Pro Tint of Orlando whenever you’re ready to upgrade your car with ceramic window tint or to add invaluable paint protection against the hazards on the road.

We’re open 7 days a week, and our friendly team is always standing by to answer any questions or concerns you may have.