Car Care 101: How to Fix Bad Window Tinting Jobs Effectively
Being a car owner is highly beneficial because you can go anywhere without experiencing the woes of commuting, such as inconsistent schedules and cramped public transport. Because of this, everyone takes their time looking for the perfect vehicle. However, some cars are often lacking, especially in blocking the sun and UV rays, compromising the interior temperature. Luckily, window tints are available for this purpose.
Window tints are thin films applied to the car’s windows to reduce the amount of light that can pass through. While installing them is straightforward, the tricky part is aligning them with the windows because they're custom-made and require precision. Being careless during the installation can cause issues such as bubbling, peeling, and wrinkling. Few people know how to correct these issues, so we'll discuss them in this article.
Fixing a Bubbling Tint
While bubbling tint is an eyesore, it can be fixed. However, it's worth noting that bubbling is often expected and typically goes away in a few days. Despite this, the most common causes are moisture, heat, and poor installation. While you can press them down, chances are the problem will persist.
The best way to fix bubbling tint is to use a heat gun or hairdryer, as it's the most effective way to remove the bubbles. This can be done by placing the heat gun a few inches away from the window and slowly moving it over the bubbling area. This method should be done with caution, as applying too much heat can damage the tint.
Fixing a Peeling Tint
Peeling tint is often caused by poor installation, and it's one of the most challenging problems to fix. The tint will peel away from the window as the adhesive deteriorates. This issue can be corrected by using a razor blade to scrape off the existing tint and then reapplying a new one.
Fixing a Wrinkled Tint
Wrinkles are caused by air pockets trapped between the window and the tint. While this can be difficult to fix, you can use a few methods. First, use a heat gun or hairdryer to heat the tint and then press it down with a squeegee. You can also use a solution of water and soap to soften the tint and then press it down with the squeegee.
Hiring a Professional
If all else fails, you can always hire a professional to come and fix the wrinkles in your window tint. Professional window tint installers have experience and the right tools to help you get rid of wrinkles. They can advise how to maintain your tint so these issues will disappear.
They can also help you choose the right type of tint for your windows. Different types of tinting have their benefits, so it's vital to get the right one for your needs. In short, a professional can help you make the best decision for your car's windows.
How Long Does a Window Tint Last?
Window tint typically lasts for several years, depending on how it is maintained. If you take proper care of your tint, you can expect it to last up to 7 to 8 years. However, if the tint is not cared for properly, it can start to peel and fade much sooner.
The best way to maintain your window tint is to clean the windows with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive cleaner. This is necessary because dirt and debris can scratch the tint and cause it to start to peel. Additionally, you must avoid using harsh chemicals on the tint because they can cause discoloration.
When storing your car, you should keep it away from direct sunlight because the windows will be exposed, and the heat and UV rays can damage the tint. Furthermore, if you need to drive in extreme weather conditions, you should use a sunshade to protect your tint from the sun’s rays.
Conclusion
Windows tints are a worthwhile investment because they protect your car from harsh UV rays, but only if they are correctly maintained. Because the tint is sensitive to environmental conditions, you must clean the windows regularly and avoid direct exposure to prolong their quality. With proper care, your window tint can last for years.
Cen Cal Tinting provides top-quality services for car window tinting in Clovis, CA. We use high-quality film to ensure your car can block UV rays effectively for affordable prices. Visit our website today to get a quote!
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What our customers think
Had our 2025 Tesla Model 3 tinted by Cen Cal Tinting and the whole experience was top notch. The quality of the work speaks for itself — super clean install, no bubbles, and the heat rejection is noticeable right away. What really made it stand out though was the customer service. You can tell they really care about their work and their customers. Highly recommend Cen Cal Tinting if you want it done right.
Took my Camry in for a i3 ceramic all around plus the air ceramic for the front windshield. Very pleased how it turned out. Highly recommend them. They are very professional and scheduling with them was very easy. And plus, they give you a lifetime warranty on their films.
This is my 4th car along with several referrals I have brought to this company to work on my vehicles. They have done a fantastic job on each one of them. On this particular one they did 15% tint over the factory tinted glass and 35% on the sides with a 5% windshield strip. Looking forward to all my future cars to this company. They typically complete the job in a few hours and are very connected via text message.
We Are Here To Help
We specialize in window tinting, paint protection film (PPF), ceramic coating, paint correction, and vehicle wraps. Whether you’re looking for heat rejection, gloss enhancement, or full protection, we’ve got you covered.
Absolutely. Many customers drop off their cars before work or leave them overnight. Just let us know what works best for your schedule and we’ll accommodate.
We’re located in Clovis, CA, and proudly serve Fresno and the surrounding Central Valley. Our shop is easy to find, and we’re just minutes away from most parts of Fresno.
You can call, text, or request a quote online in under a minute. We’ll just need your vehicle year, make, model, and what service you’re interested in to get you an accurate estimate.
We recommend booking an appointment to avoid wait times, but walk-ins are welcome when we have availability. Feel free to call or text us to check for same-day openings.
Yes — we recommend giving your car a basic exterior wash before your appointment. This helps us avoid rubbing dry dirt or dust into the paint when working on your vehicle, which can cause scratching. It also makes it easier for us to get great photos of your car when it’s all done!
Yes! We offer buy now, pay later options through providers like Affirm, Afterpay, and others — so you can split your purchase into easy payments. Just ask us for more details when booking.
We work on nearly all types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, Teslas, luxury, and exotic cars. It’s rare that we come across something we can’t work on — but if you have a unique vehicle, feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to confirm.
