Removing the window tint from your car windows may sound pretty straightforward and for the most part, it is. However, it can often be more time consuming than putting the tint on in the first place.

If you are interested in going with the do it yourself option for removing your car window tint, you should allow yourself plenty of time to get the job done. If the tint was properly applied, it is not going to come off that quickly. Be sure that you have everything you need at hand so that you can do the job all at once.

Ideally, you would do this on a sunny day, since the heat will help the tint come off more easily. If the tint is put on properly, this job could take some time, so try to do it on a sunny day which is not too hot to be outside for several hours.

Most tint has two layers, one of which will be relatively easy to get off while the other will be quite difficult. It is essential that you attempt to remove both layers together otherwise you will be stuck picking away at the second layer, possibly for hours. It is extremely important to note that back window tint is stuck on the defrost lines. Take extreme caution or you risk damaging some of those lines.

As you work to remove your window tint, get anything out of the way which can make it difficult to get the job done. Speakers or anything else which could get in the way should be moved before you start working. You will need some large plastic trash bags, preferably black. Cut the bags so the entire window can be covered.

Now you must get on the inside of the car with some ammonia, which must be used with the utmost in safety and care. Spray the inside of the window with the ammonia and then park the car in the sun. Do not breathe any ammonia in. Cover the ammonia with plastic as well to prevent evaporation.

The idea of all of this is to dissolve the glue holding the window tint on so that you can peel off the tint easily. Once the windows have been covered with the ammonia and water and left in the sun for about an hour, it will be easy to peel the tint off. Now, start peeling off the tint starting at the edges, uncovering the windows as you go. Use a razor blade and work slowly ” you do not want to end up having to scrape away at missed pieces later on.

After you get the tint off you will have to immediately start on the cleanup of the window. Use fine steel wool and some more ammonia to get the adhesive off. Quite often the ammonia is only needed for back window tint. Side windows tend to be easier to deal with.

Then rinse the window thoroughly to get the ammonia off and clean with Windex or another glass cleaner as you would normally.

Remember, this is not generally a fast process. Be patient and take your time so that it comes off the first time you try it.

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