Can I Use the Windshield Wipers After Just Applying Car Film?
3 Answers
You should not use the windshield wipers after just applying car film. The precautions after car film application are as follows: 1. Avoid rolling down the windows within three days after applying the film. 2. Do not wash the car within three days. 3. For vehicles with sunroofs, avoid opening the sunroof while driving, especially at high speeds, within three days. 4. In winter, it is recommended not to roll down the windows or wash the car for a week after film application. The front and rear windshields may take about a month to fully dry. During the day, the front windshield should be exposed to sunlight. Most importantly, do not use the rear defroster for a month, as turning on the heating wires in winter may cause bubbles near the wires, which cannot be repaired and may lead to unnecessary losses and trouble. 5. If bubbles appear at the edges of the film, visit the installation site for repair within 24 hours. After this period, the adhesive around the bubbles will have dried, making the film edges immovable, and any attempt to fix it may result in creases.
Right after getting the window tint applied, I made it a habit not to use the windshield wipers because the film needs time to fully adhere and dry, typically requiring 24 hours to two days. When the tint surface is still damp, the pressure from the wipers can cause the film to shift or bubble. I once rushed to use the wipers and ended up with a small bubble lifting at the edge of the film, which took time and money to fix. It's advisable to park the car to avoid rain, as dry weather speeds up the process, but in damp or rainy conditions, it's better to wait longer. Also, avoid rolling down the windows to prevent air circulation from interfering with the adhesion process. While the whole process might seem like a minor hassle, it protects the longevity and appearance of the tint, saving you trouble and money in the long run. Don’t sacrifice your new tint for momentary convenience.
After applying new window film, I absolutely avoid using the wipers. From a technical perspective, the film is still in the curing phase right after installation, and the friction and water pressure from the wipers can easily shift the uncured adhesive, leading to peeling or bubbling issues. I know some film types cure faster, but waiting at least a day is safer, especially in humid or hot regions. If rain is unavoidable, driving slowly or gently wiping with a soft cloth is a better alternative—just keep the windows clean without adding stress. Window film is a significant investment, and repairs can be costly if damaged. On the day of installation, I try to park in a garage to avoid rain and schedule the application during good weather. These small strategies have kept my film intact for five years without replacement.
