Kia K5 Window Tinting Review — Heat & Glare Solved

Kia K5 Window Tinting Re-application: Why It Was Necessary

If you've been bothered by intense sunlight and rising interior temperatures, your car's window tint might be the culprit. This Kia K5 DL3 owner experienced exactly that. After five years, the original window film had discolored and faded, rendering it ineffective. This meant poor cooling efficiency during summer and inadequate UV protection. This review details the window tinting re-application performed at Today's Car Jeju for a 2021 Kia K5, highlighting the improvements achieved.

Assessing the Existing Window Tint on the Kia K5

Upon inspection, the Kia K5's front windshield had no tint applied. The side and rear windows showed significant fading, making the interior clearly visible. This indicated a complete loss of UV and infrared rejection capabilities. Before starting the re-application, the door trims were carefully removed, and the glass was meticulously masked to prevent water damage to the interior. This preparation is crucial for a clean installation and a seamless finish.

The Time-Consuming Process of Removing Old Window Film

Removing old window film is the most labor-intensive part of a re-application. It's not just about peeling off the film; the adhesive residue must be completely cleared from the glass for the new film to adhere properly. For this Kia K5, the removal and cleaning alone took 2-3 hours. The rear window required special attention. To protect the defroster lines, the interior was shielded with cloth, and steam was used for about an hour to soften the film, allowing for easier removal without scratching the glass.

Addressing Issues with the Previous Window Tint Installation

A closer look at the old tint revealed it was applied in horizontal strips on the rear window, a method prone to developing bubbles over time at the seams. Furthermore, a substantial amount of adhesive residue remained on the glass surface. Specialized adhesive remover was applied generously and then squeegeed away. Leaving adhesive behind compromises the new film's bond and increases the risk of bubbles. This thorough cleaning is a non-negotiable step.

Installing New Window Film: Blockbody Bingo on the Kia K5

The re-application utilized Blockbody Bingo window film. The front windshield received 35% tint (99% UV rejection, ~70% IR rejection), while the sides and rear were tinted at 15% (99% UV rejection, ~73% IR rejection). Blockbody Bingo is recognized for its excellent UV and heat rejection capabilities at a competitive price point, making it ideal for reducing interior temperatures during hot weather.

Precision Window Tinting for the Kia K5's Sides and Rear

After cleaning, the new window film was applied and meticulously squeegeed to remove water and ensure a smooth finish. With the door trims removed, the film could be applied without creasing, resulting in a clean edge. Each window, including the smaller rear quarter windows, was addressed individually. The varying curves of each glass pane require careful heat-forming of the film to ensure a perfect fit. Achieving a dust-free installation is paramount in window tinting.

Installation Process:

1. Careful removal of interior door panels and thorough masking of glass edges.
2. Complete removal of old film and adhesive residue using steam and specialized cleaners.
3. Precise cutting and heat-forming of new window film to match each glass pane's curvature.
4. Application of new film, followed by meticulous squeegeeing to eliminate water and air bubbles.
5. Re-installation of interior door panels for a finished look.