Why is the window film blurry?
3 Answers
Below are the reasons why window film may become blurry: Poor clarity of the film itself: It's important to understand that clarity and light transmittance are not entirely equivalent. Some films with high light transmittance may still cause visual distortion. The clarity of automotive film depends on its material and manufacturing process. Scratches or corrosion during use: Although automotive film is applied to the interior of the vehicle, operations like window rolling or glass cleaning can easily scratch or damage the film. When the film is damaged, its clarity naturally decreases. Therefore, when cleaning the glass, it's advisable to use non-corrosive cleaning solutions and soft, grit-free towels for wiping. Additionally, for vehicles with small side window gaps, avoid applying excessively thick security films. Instead, opt for automotive films with excellent scratch-resistant coatings.
Newly installed window tint looks blurry? Totally normal! Right after installation, it appears like frosted glass due to residual water. Technicians use water as lubricant when applying the film with a squeegee, and haze persists until evaporation. To speed up drying, use AC cold air on windows, but patience is key—wait a week for full clarity. Cheap tints worsen over time, developing permanent oil-like haze and irreversible wrinkles in 3 months. Avoid scrubbing with sponges during car washes; opt for soft brushes instead. And never fall for those shady $50 full-car tint deals—you get what you pay for!
My car window tint turned blurry after just two years. My mechanic friend pinpointed the issue: either the film deteriorated with age, or I used improper cleaning methods. UV rays cause oxidation in the metallic layer of the tint, creating a whitish haze similar to rust on iron. Using ammonia-based glass cleaners is even more damaging – the chemical corrosion literally etches snowflake patterns into the film. During recent heavy rains, if you notice fog forming on the exterior of the tint, never use wipers to scrape it off. Just turn on the AC defroster for ten seconds to restore clarity. If water droplets appear on the inner side of the film, there's an 80% chance your window seals are leaking and need immediate repair. Oh, and never wipe the tint with newspaper! The fiber particles will get trapped in micro-scratches, making the haze worse with every wipe.
