Why Does My New Windshield Have an Oily Film on It?

Windshields, new and old, can develop dirty and oily films when the temperature gets too high. The heat burns the dirt and gunk on the windshield, staining it and limiting what the driver can see ahead. Whether or not a windshield is new is irrelevant when it comes to the development of these oily films.

This oily film is a problem that happens across all types of windshields. Fortunately, you can clean it off and take steps to prevent it.

What Causes Oily Films on Windshields?

There are many ways oily films can develop on your windshield. For example, clogged air filters increase the likelihood of dirty, oily films forming on your vehicle. Contamination from the elements, exposure to sunlight, heater core leaks, off-gassing, and smoking are also likely to develop oily films on the windshield.

Clogged Air Filter

A clogged air filter limits airflow, which increases the cabin’s temperature of the cabin. This makes it more likely for an oily film to develop on the windshield.

Contamination From the Elements

Heavy rain, harsh sunlight, acid rain, and other external factors, such as smog, falling leaves, and tree sap can contribute to oily films. Dirt rapidly builds up before turning into an oily substance that obscures your vision.

Exposure to Sunlight

Prolonged exposure to sunlight increases the temperature of your vehicle. It can also burn dirt oils on your windshield, creating that oily film. On top of that, the brighter and hotter it gets, the more oily airborne contaminants get released from your cabin. This can lead to oil film appearing on the interior or cabin side of the windshield.

Heater Core Leak

The heater core warms the cabin of the vehicle. If it leaks, the windows can fog up and make the interior feel damp. This makes it easier for windshield haze and oily films to develop.

Off-gassing

Off-gassing refers to the continuous release of harmful gases. This gas can potentially dirty up the windshield, making it foggier and accelerating the buildup of oily contaminants. This creates a dirty, oily film that coats the windshield. It’s also worth mentioning that these gases are typically toxic and bad for the environment.

Smoking

Smoking or vaping leaves an unsightly oily residue on your windshield. This is one of the fastest and most common ways that drivers inadvertently create oily films on their windshields.

How to Remove the Oily Film Safely and Effectively

You can clean your windshield and remove disruptive oily films using vinegar and water, glass cleaners, and magic erasers.

Vinegar and Water

Mixing one cup of distilled water, two tablespoons of white vinegar, and one cup of isopropyl alcohol creates a mixture that can remove oily film and other stains on your windshield. Spray the mixture on the affected area and wipe the gunk away with a microfiber towel for the best results.

Glass Cleaners

Aerosol cleaners and other ammonia-free glass cleaners are highly effective when it comes to cleaning windshields. These cleaners are safe. Just don’t get them in your eyes or your mouth.

Magic Eraser

After dipping a magic eraser in water, you can use it to clean most stains that appear on your windshield. This includes oil stains, smoke residue, and other dirt and gunk that might have accumulated during your drive.

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How to Prevent Oily Films From Forming on Your Windshield

Clean your windshield regularly, replace bad wiper blades, and protect your vehicle with sunshades to keep oily film from forming on the windshield. You can also consider the weather and how it affects your ride as well as avoid smoking in your car.

Clean Your Windshield Regularly

Keeping your windshields clean is one of the best ways to prevent oily films from forming on the glass. Start by ensuring your vehicle’s windshield washer fluid is full. If the wipers don’t have washer fluid to clean the windshield, they might make the issue worse and simply smear residue across the surface.

Replace Bad Wiper Blades

The more wiper blades are used, the dirtier they get. If they’re not cleaned properly, they can spread dirt, gunk, and other unwanted residue across your windshield, creating an oily film.

Old wiper blades are also less likely to clean your windshields properly. That’s why it’s a good idea to change your wiper blades at least once every six months. It’ll help ensure that they won’t leave streaks and residue whenever they’re used.

Use Sunshades

A good way to limit sun exposure is to invest in some sunshades for your vehicle. These handy accessories are protective shields you can attach to your windshield and other car windows. They reflect sunlight, which helps prevent oil buildup and keep cabin temperature low.

Mind the Weather

Before you drive, take the weather into account. Prolonged exposure to the elements (harsh sunlight, acid rain, smog, etc.) can cause an oily film to form on your vehicle’s windshield. Follow weather reports so that you can limit your vehicle’s exposure to unpleasant weather conditions.

Don’t Smoke in Your Car

Because smoking is one of the biggest reasons why oily films develop on windshields, it’s best to avoid doing it in your vehicle. This also applies to your passengers. Smoke from cigarettes and vapes leaves residue on the windshield, making it harder to see. If you can avoid it, don’t smoke in your vehicle at all. Step out of the vehicle if you must.