Is it normal for a new car's glass to have an oily film?
2 Answers
It is not normal for a new car's glass to have an oily film. Oily films on windows are usually found on cars that have been driven for several years, and it is relatively rare for new cars to have this issue. Causes of oily film formation: 1. Vehicle exhaust: Exhaust emissions contain various pollutants from incomplete combustion. Frequent traffic congestion in urban areas, especially when driving behind trucks, can lead to these pollutants adhering to the car's glass, forming an oily film. 2. Grease pollution: If the car is often parked near restaurant chimneys, grease and dirt can accumulate over time. If left untreated, this can form thick grease deposits. 3. Insect remains and bird droppings: These are highly corrosive. If not cleaned off the glass, they can harden and adhere, affecting the glass's transparency and even turning into an oily film. 4. Tree resin: Cars frequently parked under trees may be exposed to tree sap and fruit residues.
I recently bought a new car and was super excited, but on the day of pickup, I noticed a thin oily film on the windshield that blurred my vision whenever it rained, making me nervous while driving. At first, I thought there was something wrong with the car, but after asking several friends, they all said this is quite common with new cars—likely residue from factory-applied protective coatings or accumulated fingerprints and grease during transport. While not an ideal situation, ignoring it can worsen glare during rain or at night, obstructing visibility and increasing accident risks. I immediately bought specialized glass cleaner, wiped it down with a soft cloth, and my view became crystal clear again. I’d advise new car owners to check their windshields upon delivery and adopt a weekly cleaning routine to prevent oil film buildup, ensuring both driving safety and comfort.
