Weather shields are a popular accessory that helps prevent rain from entering the car while allowing for better ventilation. Also for smokers, the weather shields can be great to help with ventilation on rainy days. However, if your shields are old or need replacing, proper removal is essential to avoid damaging your vehicle’s paint or leaving stubborn adhesive residue. Here’s a detailed guide to safely removing weather shields.
Tools and Cleaning Supplies Needed
- Heat gun/hairdryer (to soften adhesive)
- Fishing line/thin steel wire (to cut through the adhesive)
- Plastic scraper/credit card (to prevent paint scratches)
- Alcohol or adhesive remover (such as 3M adhesive remover)
- Clean microfiber towel
- Gloves (to protect your hands)
Removal Steps
1. Choose the Right Weather Conditions
It is best to remove weather shields on a dry, warm day to prevent issues with adhesive softening. If your visors are secured with clips or screws, remove these first using a screwdriver or pry tool.
2. Soften the Tape
Use a heat gun or hairdryer set to medium heat, and apply warm air evenly along the edges of the visor for 1-2 minutes to soften the 3M adhesive tape.
⚠ Tip: Keep the heat gun at least 15cm (6 inches) away from the car’s surface to avoid overheating and damaging the paint or shield.
3. Cut Through the Tape
- Put on gloves and insert a fishing line or thin steel wire between the shield and the car body, starting from one end near the window gap.
- Using a sawing motion, slowly slide the wire back and forth to cut through the tape layer.
- If the tape is too firm, continue heating the area while cutting to make the process easier.⚠ Be careful not to scratch the glass or window trim with the wire.
4. Remove the Weather Shields
- Once the tape is fully cut, gently pull the shield away from the car’s surface.
- If you feel strong resistance, reheat the area and check if any tape is still attached.
- Avoid forcefully pulling to prevent breaking the visor or damaging the paint.
How to Remove Tape Residue
- Use a plastic scraper to remove large pieces of remaining tape.
- Spray adhesive remover (such as 3M adhesive remover or WD-40) on the remaining residue and let it sit for 1-2 minutes to soften.
- Wipe the area clean with a microfiber towel. If residue persists, use a special adhesive remover cloth (such as 3M adhesive wipes) for better results.⚠ Avoid using metal tools (such as razor blades) to prevent scratches on the paint.
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Finally, clean the area with soapy water or car cleaner to remove any chemical residue. Inspect the paint for damage, and polish if necessary.
Recommended Replacement Weather Shields
If you’re looking to install new weather shields, consider OAD4X4 weather shields. OAD4X4 offers a wide range of styles for various vehicle models, all made from high-quality acrylic materials. These visors are highly durable and resistant to cracking or warping, even under Australia’s intense heat.
Upgrade your vehicle’s functionality and aesthetics with OAD4X4 window visors today!