How to Repair a Car Window Tint

Automobile window tint film can be carefully repaired with patience and precision. Using the exact same window tint film and a razor blade, a patch can be cut into the film and made seamless to the casual observer. The average backyard mechanic can repair window tint film in about an hour.

Things You'll Need

  • Razor blades
  • Distilled water
  • Spray bottle
  • Section off the area of damaged tint and cut a square around it with the razor blade, through the existing tint. If the area is large, it may be prudent to remove all tint and retint the entire window. Once the section is sliced, put the corner of the razor into the corner of the cut square and gently work up a small corner.

  • Spray the area lightly with water. Do not saturate the tint, but spray a small amount on the cut lines, especially on the lifted corner of the sliced section. Dry any drips with a towel.

  • Run the razor into the corner of the squared section and lift up more of the damaged tint. Running the razor down the edges will also loosen the entire section, bit by bit. Spray a little more water if necessary. Continue to razor the section until the tint comes up. If the tint rips and runs, at least the pre-cut sectioning will prevent it from running through the whole window. Shave off the damaged tint section until it is raw glass. Scrape up any loose glue particles and remove them.

  • Spray the section with water again and wipe the area to get it as clean as possible, especially around the edges of the cut. Do not use ammonia-based cleaners, as they will damage the tint.

  • Cut a section of new tint slightly larger than the section. Remove the plastic backing and quickly apply the section to the wet glass. Position the tint film quickly. Use a squeegee to work out the air bubbles in the tint film. Cut the edges as closely as possible to the edges of the pre-cut section. Follow the curves, if applicable, and once the new film is cut, check again for air bubbles. Allow the tint to dry for 12 hours before cleaning the area.