Window Film: How To Remove And Control It (ASN1204-01)

WINDOW FILM: HOW TO REMOVE AND CONTROL IT

ACURA SERVICE NEWS

SERVICE INFORMATION

We've all seen it: that cloudy gunk that forms on the inside of vehicle windows, especially on new ones. But just what causes it, and how do you remove it and keep it under control?

Lots of things can cause window film: tobacco smoke, condensation, dust, and especially nontoxic outgassing of the plastics, foams, and vinyls typically used for vehicle interiors. When the inside of the vehicle gets hot, these substances form a cloud that sticks to windows. Outgassing is common to all new vehicles; not just Acuras. In fact, it's what gives vehicles that enticing "new car smell."

The best way to get rid of this stuff is to mix yourself a brew of one part white vinegar and ten parts water. Pour it into a spray bottle, and apply it to the inside of the windows. Use newspaper to wipe the window clean, but keep it away from the upholstery and trim to avoid staining them. Keeping the windows clean is important not just for good driving visibility but for effective defroster performance as well. To enhance your customer's service experience, make it a habit to remove window film as part of servicing their vehicles.

Tell your customers they can limit the formation of window film by parking their vehicles in the shade, leaving the windows slightly open if they're parking in the sun, and making frequent use of that highly popular auto fashion accessory: the windshield sunshade.

There's one good thing about window film though, its not  a long-term problem. As the vehicle gets older, outgassing tapers off, and the problem-like an old soldier- just fades away.