Is the front windshield film applied on the outside or inside?
2 Answers
The front windshield film is applied on the inside. If it were applied on the outside, exposure to wind and rain would reduce its lifespan by at least two-thirds. Additionally, if applied externally, glass fragments could still cause injury upon impact, rendering the anti-shatter film ineffective. Car window film refers to a thin layer applied to the front and rear windshields, side windows, and sometimes sunroofs. This layer is also known as solar film or heat-insulating film. Its primary functions include blocking UV rays, reducing heat transmission, preventing injuries from glass shattering, reducing glare, and providing privacy through the film's one-way visibility properties.
As a veteran driver with decades of experience, I once tried cutting corners by applying the front windshield film on the outside. Within days, the wipers scratched the film surface and it got covered in dust, blurring my vision and frustrating me immensely. Later, on a friend's advice, I switched to applying it on the inside. Several years on, it remains perfectly intact with excellent heat insulation, making the car much cooler in summer. Another advantage of inside application is the simpler installation process—professional shops use squeegees to clean the inner glass and prevent bubbles. If doing it yourself, remember to spray cleaner first before pressing the film firmly. When choosing film, don't skimp—opt for anti-explosion UV types that offer privacy protection and durability. In summary, based on my experience, applying film on the inside is the reliable choice; otherwise, you'll just waste money and hassle with replacements.
