kyoung05

iTrader: (2)

The tint on my '05 STI is starting to peel, and I'd like to get it re-done. While there's a local shop (Auto Image in Belmont) that does a pretty good job of applying the tint, they don't do tint removal.

While I know that most shops will remove tint, I'm looking for a place that will do it carefully so as not to damage the rear defrosters. I am considering Best Image in San Mateo, but does anyone have recommendations? Ideally in the Peninsula or even South Bay would be best, but I'd be looking to drive a bit if it meant having it done right.

Thanks!

stupidchicken03

iTrader: (38)

In my experience, a shop that will remove tint, will charge just as much to remove as they would to install.


I removed my own on the rear glass in my bugeye a handful of years ago. Wasnt too bad. A few clean rags and a can of denatured alcohol (with lots of ventilation lol). Its an option if you dont want to pay for it.

Klean-Strip 1 gal. SLX Denatured Alcohol Cleaner-GSL26 - The Home Depot

Overbear

It is a real ***** to do, however you can do it. You will need...

1)Bucket of soapy water
2)4-5 sponges
3)1-2 Mr Clean magic erase sponge
4)10-15 microfiber towels
5)10-20 microfiber rags
6)Bottle of good quality (not cheap as dollar store stuff) glass cleaner. The spray can stuff works best.

Start by gently pealing the tint away from one corner, SLOWLY. Once you can get a soapy sponge behind it, start to wipe/wet as you pull. Keep it wet as you can as you work the tint off.

Once you have the tint off, its time for work, keep cleaning and drying the glass tell not a single bit of sticky is left behind. Then clean it again. Use the Magic Eraser sponge for the corners and anywhere that won't come up but be careful not to use it directly where the defroster/antenna traces are.

Overall it will take you 30-60 min per window to do right.

kyoung05

iTrader: (2)

Yea, I did briefly consider doing it myself, but honestly not something I'd want to spend several hours on and was hoping to find someplace that could do it the right way, for a fair price.

Best Image in San Mateo quoted me $120, which seems reasonable and they said it would take upwards of 4-5 hours. So, in theory, it sounds good, but I don't have any direct experience with them and I really want to avoid having to replace the defrosters.

lugnuts

iTrader: (4)

try calling Canlas mobile window tinting, its at san jose beside speed element shop .

kyoung05

iTrader: (2)

Thanks! I'll give them a call tomorrow.

verik07

I used youtube to help me; maybe it'll be helpful to you too.

d3rock

iTrader: (5)

+1 for Canlas. They've done several cars for me and the family now!

04GG

iTrader: (33)

Yup. They've done 6 or 7 of my cars over the years and a huge number of friend's cars. Great guys. I had some damaged tint on the passenger window of truck we used to have and they removed and redid them and you couldn't tell the previous tint had been there.

Defroster equipped window is going to be a problem IMO. Romel will tell you if they will do the window with the defroster or not.

kyoung05

iTrader: (2)

If the rear defroster is damaged, is there a way to just replace the defroster? Or do I just need to replace the entire windshield?

Overbear

You have to replace the window as it is a printed circuit on the glass. I have never seen anyone be able to repair them.

That said, if they won't take it off. Just follow the directions I listed. This will remove it and the glue 100% without any chance of damage. NEVER use a blade like the mighty-car-mods did.

04GG

iTrader: (33)

I have repaired the little connector where it attaches to the defroster in the corner on one car by applying a little solder to it, but I've also never seen anyone repair the traces on the window. Yes, you would be replacing the glass.

Let Canlas take a look at it and they will tell you if they think it can be removed without damaging the traces. Since it is already bubbling, it may come off more easily.

kyoung05

iTrader: (2)

Great, thanks guys - very helpful!