Can You Replace Rear Defroster After Window Tinting?

Window tinting is popular because it provides security and increases energy efficiency for an automobile. Window tinting has many benefits, though sometimes the tint film can interfere with making repairs.

Benefit of Rear Window Tinting

In addition to protecting valuables and keeping the sun out, window tinting can help the rear window defroster work more effectively. The tint film helps disburse the defroster's heat across the window.

Defroster Problems

If all of the defroster lines have stop working, the defroster's power tabs might have become disconnected. If the power tabs are in place, the problem might be with the fuse and not the defroster. If only some of the lines stop working, the problem is most likely with a defroster conductor, located in the grid lines. The slightest scratch can cause a break in a defroster line.

Repairing the Defroster

Defrosters can also be damaged during the tinting process. Before the tint film is installed, the window is usually cleaned with a scraper or scouring pad, which can damage the delicate defroster grid lines if not done carefully. Repairing or replacing a rear window defroster requires removal of the tint. If the grid lines only need minor repairs, the tinting film needs to be removed carefully to prevent damage to the working grid lines.