Is the front windshield film applied on the outside or inside?
3 Answers
The front windshield film is applied on the inside because long-term exposure to wind and sun on the outside can cause the film to lose adhesion, curl at the edges, or degrade in functionality. Applying the film on the inside protects it from external influences. Additionally, if applied on the outside, shattered glass fragments from an impact could injure people, negating the purpose of the anti-shatter film. It's important to note: The film must achieve a 70% light transmittance while also having high heat insulation and low visible light reflectivity, as traffic regulations stipulate that the visible light transmittance of the front windshield must not be less than 70%. Mirror-reflective sunshade films are prohibited on all vehicle windows.
Having worked in the auto repair industry for several years, I've seen many cases where car windshield films were applied incorrectly. To be honest, the film must be installed on the inside, that is, the interior side of the windshield, for it to work properly. If applied on the outside, rain or wind will quickly damage the film with dust and water, making it blurry and obstructing the view. Moreover, the high temperatures and UV rays on the exterior will cause the film to bubble or scratch, rendering it useless within a month. Installing it on the inside, however, is different—it directly protects both the glass and the occupants inside, offering excellent UV protection and heat insulation, which also saves energy. Many people wonder why it's not more convenient to apply it on the outside, but the main reason is cleaning. When applied inside, you can easily wipe it clean during car washes without compromising visibility or safety. It's best to have the film installed by a professional shop, as they use specialized tools to ensure a bubble-free application, extending the film's lifespan. Remember this simple rule for a safer driving experience.
When I first bought my car, I wasn't sure which side to apply the windshield film. Later, I tried applying it myself and put it on the outside, but after one rain, the film started fading and bubbling, making the car look terrible. I quickly consulted an experienced driver and learned that it must be applied on the inside to be correct. Applying it inside has many benefits—it significantly improves sun protection and glare reduction, especially on hot days, keeping the interior much cooler and saving a lot on air conditioning costs. More importantly, it enhances privacy. If applied outside, anyone can see inside the car, but applying it inside makes it hard to see from the outside, improving safety. I recommend beginners choose a light-colored film, not too dark, to avoid visibility issues when driving at night. Regularly check the film's condition and replace it early if scratches appear. My experience tells me not to cut corners on this detail.
