How to Remove Oil Film from Windshield?
4 Answers
Methods to remove oil film from windshield are: 1. Sprinkle flour to absorb the oil and then wipe it off; 2. Cover the windshield with tissue paper or paper towels, spray Libai dishwashing liquid water, remove the tissue paper, and then wipe it with a clean cloth dipped in water several times; 3. Squeeze toothpaste onto a toothbrush, brush it along the windshield, and then wipe it clean with a wet cloth. The reasons for oil film formation on windshield are: 1. Vehicle exhaust; 2. Oil smoke pollution; 3. Bird droppings, insect remains or tree sap containing corrosive components; 4. Aging of wiper blades. Windshield maintenance methods include: 1. Use dedicated or suitable wiper blades and replace them in time; 2. Keep the front windshield clean; 3. Use automotive-specific glass cleaner.
I was also troubled by oil film issues for several months before finding an effective solution. First, use glass cleaner with an oil-removing sponge to thoroughly wipe the entire windshield, focusing on the wiper-covered areas. Then spray a mixture of white vinegar and water on stubborn stains, carefully scrubbing gaps and edges with an old toothbrush. Finally, dry with a microfiber cloth. Remember never to use blades or steel wool as they can cause permanent scratches. A deep cleaning on a sunny day can last two to three months, while weekly cleaning with glass cleaner can effectively slow down oil film formation.
The oily film on the windshield that causes blurriness on rainy days is indeed annoying. From my experience, the first step is to assess the severity of the oily film. For mild cases, simply apply toothpaste and scrub in circular motions with a damp cloth. For stubborn films, you'll need professional oil film remover paired with glass polishing compound. Remember to work in a shaded area and avoid letting the cleaner dry on the glass, which can leave water stains. After cleaning, don't forget to wipe the wiper blades too, otherwise the freshly cleaned glass will get contaminated again. Some car owners keep facing recurring oil film issues because they frequently park near restaurant exhaust vents or construction sites.
I take the removal of oil film very seriously for driving safety. When the oil film is severe, driving at night can be a disaster—opposing headlights create nothing but glare. It's recommended to use a neutral-formula cleaning product to avoid damaging the glass coating. The process involves three steps: first, rinse surface sand particles with a high-pressure water gun; then apply a specialized cleaner and let it sit for three minutes; finally, wipe in a circular motion. Applying a water repellent after treatment enhances the effect, causing rainwater to slide right off. Don't forget to check the wiper blades, as aged rubber can accelerate oil film reformation.
