How Long Does Car Window Tint Really Last?

When it comes to car window tint, you should understand how long it'll last. Luckily, this informative guide has you covered.

Did you know that Americans keep their cars for almost 12 years? So whether you prefer an SUV, a truck, or a luxury vehicle, you can customize your car from the paint job to the wheels. The same applies to car window tint. 

But how long does an auto window tint last? That question gets answered by reading this guide about the different types of window tint. The best window tint can last until the wheels fall off your beloved car.



And if you already have car window tint, are you maintaining it? Before you tackle your next car accessory, read why your auto window tint deserves car maintenance too. Your car's look and your wallet will thank you.

Car Window Tint Types

Like the quality of a car's parts determine its longevity, the same applies to auto window tint. But without proper maintenance, the car window tint's film wears out, leaving you vulnerable to dangerous ultraviolet rays. Keep in mind these common types of window tint.

• Classic dye auto window tint
• Metallic car window tint
• Carbon tint film
• Ceramic car window tint

If you are on a window tint budget, you might begin with a classic dye car window tint. But if you want something more stylish built to last, a ceramic auto window tint, for example, gets the job done.

And with the proper car maintenance, a ceramic auto window tint can last five years. Metallic car window tints have a longevity of ten years with proper installation and maintenance. So before you buy from us, you can preview how your car window tint on your model. 

What Impacts a Car Window Tint's Lifespan

Your car's make and its running condition influence the life of an auto window tint. Dye auto window tint, for example, is prone to sunlight. So, leaving your car exposed to the sun with this auto window tint means quick film degradation and fading.

If you have a garage, try to park your tinted car inside. Otherwise, invest in a car cover to help extend the lifespan of the car window tint. And if you need additional pointers for selecting a car window tint, read our blog post.

Climate and Car Window Tints

The same is true for other weather-related events like the sun can degrade your auto window tint. However, getting an auto window tint in winter means a longer cure time.

Other factors to consider to preserve your car window tint are dust, particles, and bird droppings. Again, a garage can save you headaches and unwanted expenses. Bird droppings over time can erode your car's paint job and the car window tint.

The Installation of the Tint

A faulty car window tint installation produces eye sores for your prized ride and degrades the tint's lifespan. For example, the auto window tint might peel or scrape. And if you live in a high-heat area, the blazing sun can even melt the tint to the glass, causing unwanted costs. 

Also, try to avoid touching the auto window tint immediately after installing the auto window tint. Depending on the type of film, some might take longer to cure. It can take several days in some cases for complete curing.

Also, keep your windows rolled up after installing a new car window tint. That way, the adhesive glue for the car window tint can fully dry.

Maintaining the Car Window Tint

It's a good practice to avoid using stickers or any other items that stick to your car window tint. The suction applies to the film, which can lead to the early degradation of breaks. Stickers can also leave dust particles behind, making your auto window tint an eyesore. 

Using the proper cleaners with routine car maintenance influences the life of your auto window tint. Cleaners with ammonia and other harmful cleaners can ruin your car window tint. Discoloring is another symptom that your car window tint is failing.

You can use soap and water with a soft cloth to clean the auto window tint effectively. However, scrubbers, for example, might scratch the tint and the glass. Also, household cleaners are not friendly options for tint car maintenance.

And after washing the tints, be sure to dry them. Again, a soft cloth avoids damaging the tint or ruining the glass.

Try to wash your auto window tint while you wash your car. That way, you can avoid dust on your wheels or car body that can stick to the car window tint.

Don't Forget the Seat Belt

Believe it or not, the seat belt plays a role in maintaining your car window tint. For example, if you take off your seat belt in haste, the metal fastener might bang against the window, causing chips in the glass.

Seat belt banging into the glass might also cause scratches. Unfortunately, there's no fix for scratched window glass outside of replacing it. And a new car window means a new car window tint.

Also, the seat belt itself shouldn't rest against the window. Unfortunately, this can also lead to dreaded scratches.

Be Careful How You Drive

Try to avoid driving close to leaning tree limbs when on the road. These tree branches can lead to undesired glass scratches. Also, avoid parking directly under trees. Sometimes tree sap lands on your glass, ruining your car window tint. 

More About a Car Window Tint

There's a reason that Maximum Shade Tinting consistently receives a five-star rating on Yelp and Facebook. We deliver professional car window tint installation built to last for Buford, Georgia, and the surrounding area.

From SUVs to luxury sports vehicles, we have the ceramic auto window tint to make your ride stand out. We also provide exemplary auto window tints for commercial buildings and for residents.

Contact us to get the best window tint today. We take tinting car windows seriously, which is why we offer free estimates.