I see a lot of posts now and again about problems with Window Tints Scratching.

THIS problem is very common with our S197 Mustangs because of the materials Ford used to construct the seals on our windows.

This thread is to discuss those problems and some resolutions.

PLEASE keep the posts specificaly to this topic, and keep the banter to a minimum as this is a TECH thread.

THANKS!

IMO, it seems the scratches are more apparent in dusty climates. The members who said they have had no scratches seem to mostly be from states that get rain. I live in Phoenix, AZ. It's very hot and dusty here. I had a severe case of scratched tint. I found no help from the dealer or the tint shops here.

There have been a number of fixes mentioned by members here on the forums, felt strips, velcro loops, moleskin. I searched for the felt strips and could only find a 12" sheets where I would have to cut strips and piece it together I really wanted something that was one long piece without seams. So I tried a self adhesive foam pipe insulation tape rated for 180 degrees, it seemed to be working until the glue smeared all over the window in the heat when the window went up and down. Had to use de-solv-it to get the glue off.

Someone has mentioned using the soft side of velcro, but I think it's too knappy and will trap large particles eventually and scratch the tint. Plus, the self adhesive type is too likely to fail in the heat. I used to make velcro speaker cable ties with it by sticking it back to back and it always smeared all over the cables from being stored in a box in the heat.

I currently have resolved my tint scratches (and have new tint) by using the automoleskin.com product. The glue has held up in the heat with only one minor slippage occurance on the drivers side. This happened a couple days after I installed it, but it has set in and hasn't moved since. I also have a friend who installed it a few weeks ago also and has had no problems with it. This is a very easy do-it-yourself fix and only takes about 15 minutes a side with most of that time spent carefully attaching the moleskin. The moleskin comes with instructions.

However, time will tell......

ORIGINAL: BigNasty06

So that they become aware of this probelm since they apparently haven't heard of this issue yet. At aleast according to my dealer and the Ford Csr Relation Center. That woman I spoke with said to have everyone I know with this problem call them. Here are the number. Can we make this a sticky?

USA
Ford Motor Company
Customer Relationship Center
P.O.Box 6248
Dearborn, Michigan 48126
1-800-392-3673(FORD)
TDD for the hearing impaired:1-800-232-5952
Monday - Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM local time

Ford Motor Company of Canada, Ltd.
Customer Relationship Center
P.O.Box 2000
Oakville, Ontario L6J 5E4
1-800-565-3673(FORD)
Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM local time

A cheap design costs us hundreds to re-tint and add the felt. What a joke!


WE SHOULD ALL CALL THIS NUMBER!!!

Have your vin number ready, that way they can see if it is a problem with all s197's or just certain batches.

The whole point of this thread is to make ford aware of this problem, or atleast to make them admit what they probably already know. Let's see if we can't get this put in a TSB so future mustangs don't have the same problem, and ours can be fixed under warranty...as it should be.

The best fix is the moleskin (http://www.automoleskin.com/ford.htm) mentioned above. It runs about 30 bux, which isn't as cheap as the velcro or felt but you do get what you pay for...and of course you will have to re-tint.

OEMs don't make TSB for aftermarket issues.

If the car didn't come equipped with factory tint, how is that fords problem? If you had it tinted at the dealer that would be the dealers problem or whomever tinted the glass for you.

IT SCRATCHES THE GLASS ON SOME CARS WITHOUT TINT TOO!

Besides it is ford certified tint put on by the ford dealership. I can see that it is partially dealer responsibility but have you ever seen a car that scratches properly installed, manufacturer certified tint like this. How can that not be a flaw in design or material?

The best fix is the moleskin (http://www.automoleskin.com/foed.htm) mentioned above. It runs about 30 bux, which isn't as cheap as the velcro or felt but you do get what you pay for...and of course you will have to re-tint.


Dead link - this one works - http://www.automoleskin.com/ford.htm

I have some small scratches in the glass on the inside of my passenger side window.

You can feel the grooves with your fingernail as you run across them, they seem to be right where the door handle is.

I just ordered the moleskin online. They ship out their orders on mondays. Total with tax was 34.90

I think It's Gay. I have an 06 S197 and I have 5% ALL THE WAY AROUND. My Back, and Quarter Windows are perfect, but my front two or Scratching BAD, and I also have a Conv. and the Driver window is having trouble coming up sometimes. I took it to my dealer and he said they would take a look at it on tomorrow. And more in likely It was Dirt getting in there. But I told him straight up that I didn't wanna have to get my mom involved with this (I'm 17), But they wouldnt really take me serious, and the car is only 3 months old. I was acting very polite and nice to him but he kept on saying it was my FAULT, because of dirt. O yeah I also told him bout the Molding kit thing but well see what happens. So I'll post tommorow To let yall all know whats up.

- LAK3RS

just remember, if they dont find anything that would be covered under warrenty then you will have to pay the labor for them to take your door panels off.

anyway, i really hope this gets resolved soon because i dont know how long i can deal with my tint scratched as badly as it is.

Ty

in order to minimize the existing scratches and to clean tint in general, buy some Plexus; it is sold in some Honda motorcycle shops and you may find it on line for Jeep tops. It is specificially for plastic convertible windows but works on all plastics such as this. It fills in the scratches and makes the surface really slick afterward as well as putting back some moisture. It will work wonders and may prevent some scratches in the future.

I see after several of my posts that we are still saying "........scratches in my window tint..." Folks, it is scratching the window glass. If you have a 2005 or 2006 Mustang GT you have scratches in your window glass.

Saying it is scratching your window tint is not really the problem. You had scratches on your window BEFORE the window tint was installed. And you are going to get more on the window tint unless you install felt or moleskin or whatever other product guys are using.

ORIGINAL: LAK3RS

I think It's Gay. I have an 06 S197 and I have 5% ALL THE WAY AROUND. My Back, and Quarter Windows are perfect, but my front two or Scratching BAD, and I also have a Conv. and the Driver window is having trouble coming up sometimes. I took it to my dealer and he said they would take a look at it on tomorrow. And more in likely It was Dirt getting in there. But I told him straight up that I didn't wanna have to get my mom involved with this (I'm 17), But they wouldnt really take me serious, and the car is only 3 months old. I was acting very polite and nice to him but he kept on saying it was my FAULT, because of dirt. O yeah I also told him bout the Molding kit thing but well see what happens. So I'll post tommorow To let yall all know whats up.

- LAK3RS


So what happened?

I took my wifes clear fingernail polish and applied it to the top edge of the tint. Helps to protect it and is cheap.

When I decided to get my windows tinted, I went to two different shops to talk to them about it. Both shops swore up and down that no extra felt or pad is required on the windows, that they had installed tint on many new Mustangs and had never had any come back with scratches. I went with the shop that offered a lifetime warranty and also had a contract with a local Ford dealership to do all their tinting. When I talked to them about all the reports on Mustang forums about scratching, they suggested the film that other shops are installing may be cheap film. All I know is I've had my windows tinted for over 6 months now and raise and lower the driver's side window at least twice a day to get in and out of the parking garage at work. The tint still looks perfect. I'm certainly not saying everyone is crazy, this problem is obviously very real based on the tons of reports about it. But for some reason I have had no problems at all on mine, and neither has the shop where I had mine done.

The product used by your installer, was it 3M or some other? That may be the key to this issue, If we all find out what material was used in problem and non problem cars, we might be able to narrow it down.

Couldn't hurt to try!!

Maybe someone can start a poll in both 4.0 and GT forums to find out.[sm=lildevil.gif]

I actually had the dealership I bought the car from fix the problem. They used felt , and I had to get the tint on one window replaced (at my own expense), but it worked. My dealership has been trying to make up for another issue I had with them, so you might not have the same luck, but it's worth a shot.

I took mine to the dealership right after I had my windows retinted because of the scratches. They said they wanted to see the actual scratches (go figure). But the service tech said that if an OEM part causes damage to an aftermarket part (spefically tint) that it would be covered under warranty and the warranty would also cover the replacement of the tint.

That was a couple months ago. My windows are very scratched now but I have not had the chance to go sit at the dealership for hours while they repair the part.

Great news Mystery! PLEASE keep us updated! I want to redo the fronts, but not if it's actually the glass that's scratched.

I may have the tint remove and check the windows themselves and then take it to the dealer for replacement windows since I've had the felt installed.

How do you actually install the felt and where? pics would be helpful too.

ORIGINAL: Mustanger

How do you actually install the felt and where? pics would be helpful too.


I second that.

OK i figured it out. All you have to do is:

1: take off the screw behind the door handle insert.
2: remove top screw on back edge of door holding door panel on.
3: remove inside cover for the side mirror.
4: pull the top edge of the door panel back and as your holding it back just pull out the rubber strip that the window rubs on.
5: now just install whatever felt or moleskin you bought onto the rubber strip and reinstall.

I bought some felt that has an adhesive backing down at Michaels. The adhesive backing seems pretty strong. It comes in 9" by 12" sheets and i cut them into strips that are 1/2" by 12". It takes three strips for each side.

I will follow up with pics of the install when I get my car back from tint shop today.

Mustanger,

Other than me taking the entire door panel off (which is not necessary), you did EXACTLY what my wife and I did on her Mustang. We did this last September on her 2006 GT and so far no problems.

Oh, and we live in the heat of Phoenix Arizona. No problems yet with the felt from Michaels.

ORIGINAL: Morpheus

The product used by your installer, was it 3M or some other? That may be the key to this issue, If we all find out what material was used in problem and non problem cars, we might be able to narrow it down.



The film they used is "Llumar". Here's their web site:

http://www.llumar.com/

I'm not sure which exact film they used, the receipt says "ST30ATW". I think it was the Stealth. It was 30% all the way around, has a lifetime warranty and was 150 bucks. The place that installed it is apparently just in the Dallas area, here's their web site:

http://www.moonshadowwindowtint.com/

These guys have been around for many years. My wife had one of her cars tinted there about 10 years ago.

I installed the Mole Skin today and took a few pics to compliment some of the instructions given by other members. Here you go:

To loosen the door panel remove the screw on the door handle.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m119/blkonblk7/Car%20stuff/P1010001.jpg

Then loosen the screw on the side of the panel.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m119/blkonblk7/Car%20stuff/P1010002.jpg

Next remove the corner panel, this just pops right out.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m119/blkonblk7/Car%20stuff/P1010003.jpg

Now you can pull the top of the panel towards you to access the plastic window track. Then just pull it off like so

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m119/blkonblk7/Car%20stuff/P1010005.jpg

Once you have the track off, apply the moleskin or felt.

http://s102.photobucket.com/albums/m119/blkonblk7/Car%20stuff/th_P1010009.jpg

Here is the moleskin attached to the plastic track.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m119/blkonblk7/Car%20stuff/P1010010.jpg




As per the moleskin directions I used some steel wool to coarsen the plastic track. I then used some rubbing alcohol to clean the surface and simply applied the moleskin. It was all fairly simple except for getting the door panel back on. It took some muscle to get the edge of the panel back in place but other than that it was a straight forward install.

That moleskin looks alot like the fuzzy side of VELCROS, not the loop side. I say this cause we use alot of velcros where I work and it looks like I might be able to use it. If you are familiar with velcros, would you agree?

Yeah it did look a little like velcro but it wasn’t as fuzzy. I was concerned about using glue that would smear with the heat down hear in Miami. I had heard good things about the moleskin regarding the glue they used and not smearing with the heat. So far no problems.

ORIGINAL: BigNasty06

Great news Mystery! PLEASE keep us updated! I want to redo the fronts, but not if it's actually the glass that's scratched.

I may have the tint remove and check the windows themselves and then take it to the dealer for replacement windows since I've had the felt installed.


Went by the dealership this past Thusday 7/27. Spoke to the same lady as before and she went to get her service manager who politely told me she was incorrect that aftermarket tint is not their problem. If I had them tinted from Ford it would be covered. So, I went back to my tinter and he has already ordered a few moleskin kits and is going to redo my windows under his warranty. I hope to get the retinting done this week. And for anyone ion the Middle TN area, it was Alexander Ford. They will never see my Mustang again, EVER.

ORIGINAL: BlkonBlk

I installed the Mole Skin today and took a few pics to compliment some of the instructions given by other members. Here you go:



Thanks for posting this! Your instructions were 100 times better than the ones that came with the moleskin...

Anyone remove the scratched tint, only to find that it was actually the window that was scratched? If that's the case, I would fully excpect the dealer to replace the windows. Anyone?

I have read posts from people who said that they had the dealer tint the windows and haven't had any scratching.

Any chance that these contracted tint shops are installing felt when they install the tint?

I go to perhaps the best tint shop in Colorado and have NEVER had a vehicle (5 or 6 hvehicles) scratch until this '06 Pony. [:@]

I had the dealer look at the scratches I am seeing on the inside of my passenger window.
He is supposed to call me to bring it in when the regional Ford rep makes his monthly visit to make a decision if they will replace it.

ORIGINAL: Rrruss

I had the dealer look at the scratches I am seeing on the inside of my passenger window.
He is supposed to call me to bring it in when the regional Ford rep makes his monthly visit to make a decision if they will replace it.


So you don't have tint, correct? How can they not replace the windows? Christ, show them this thread!

I may file a notice on the class action lawsuit site. They got Dodge to move on the ball joints recall.

ORIGINAL: Tres Wright


ORIGINAL: Morpheus

The product used by your installer, was it 3M or some other? That may be the key to this issue, If we all find out what material was used in problem and non problem cars, we might be able to narrow it down.



The film they used is "Llumar". Here's their web site:

http://www.llumar.com/

I'm not sure which exact film they used, the receipt says "ST30ATW". I think it was the Stealth. It was 30% all the way around, has a lifetime warranty and was 150 bucks. The place that installed it is apparently just in the Dallas area, here's their web site:

http://www.moonshadowwindowtint.com/

These guys have been around for many years. My wife had one of her cars tinted there about 10 years ago.



The tinting company that did my windows uses this same Llumar product and swears by it...that it's the toughest tinting material on the market and more resistent to scratching than any other. Unfortunately though, I started noticing minor scratches less than two weeks after having them tinted (and it's NOT the glass....the car was tinted less than a week after I bought it and there were none present). I spoke to the guy at the tinting company (who does all the work for local Ford dealerships and came highly recommended) and he also said they've never had anybody with a new Mustang return to him with these problems, so I don't know why it's select few. But that doesn't necessarily mean others aren't having problems -- only that they haven't reported it. Maybe I'm more picky than other owners and want my $200 investment to last more than two weeks. In any case, this guy said HE is going to order the moleskin for my car and he is going to replace the tint on both driver and passenger windows at NO exta cost to me because he stands by his reputation and doesn't want it tainted. Real fair guy -- I'll probably slip him a few bucks on the side anyway just for taking care of me.

By the way, I don't think this problem has anything to do with dusty environments -- I live in Seattle and, well, uhhh, in case you haven't heard, it rains all the time here and everything is green! Very little dust in the air. But I digress.....

local://upfiles/37824/E090EE9865194F7FB5F9AA2D958410A9.jpg

I'd bet you a Starbucks coffee that your glass is scratched.;)

ORIGINAL: MobyDickDog

I'd bet you a Starbucks coffee that your glass is scratched.;)



I couldn't drink a Starbucks for two weeks leading up to the Superbowl being a Steeler fan! LOL! When we got to the Detroit airport Monday, that was the first place I went. I was having friggin withdrawls!

ORIGINAL: MobyDickDog

I'd bet you a Starbucks coffee that your glass is scratched.;)


I won't be surprised if it is because that's just my luck, but at the same time, I would be surprised if it is because I only had the car a week before tinting the windows. I'll take that bet! Problem is, how do I ship a full cup of coffee to wherever you are without it spilling and also manage to keep it hot? :)

Seriously, if ANY glass would scratch from a cheap piece of rubber within a week's time of ownership, you better believe I'd be in the dealership pounding on someone's desk.

ORIGINAL: Silencer06


ORIGINAL: MobyDickDog

I'd bet you a Starbucks coffee that your glass is scratched.;)


I won't be surprised if it is because that's just my luck, but at the same time, I would be surprised if it is because I only had the car a week before tinting the windows. I'll take that bet! Problem is, how do I ship a full cup of coffee to wherever you are without it spilling and also manage to keep it hot? :)

Seriously, if ANY glass would scratch from a cheap piece of rubber within a week's time of ownership, you better believe I'd be in the dealership pounding on someone's desk.


Send him a Starbucks gift card. :o)

I have this same problem, I got my windows tinted 5% and waited the 6 days they told me to wait. First time I rolled it down, I had a huge 9" scratch on my passenger window. It is getting progressively worse as time goes on (that was about 6 weeks ago) and now I have close to 9 scratches on my passenger and probably 5 or 6 on my drivers side. I took it back to the tinter and he said he wouldnt replace is because it is most likely something in the door causing the scratches and it isnt his fault. So my car is due for 5k check up here pretty soon, Im going to make them check this and see what they say. They may not replace the tint but if the window is scratched you can bet your ass their replacing that.

Installed my Moleskin. With the instructions and tips from this thread it was very straightforward.

Interestingly on the passenger door (which was the side that had the most scratches in the tint) there were clear signs of wear/abrasion on the "wiper"....this on a car with just 260 miles where the windows have been up and down maybe 10 times!?!?! Somethings not right.

Fortunately my tint installer is replacing the tint at no charge...mainly because when I went to see him about the scratches I did not lay blame with his people, rather spoke about what others were saying about a potential problem with the Mustang.

Oh ya and at $30 for two 40" strips, I need to buy stock in Moleskin :D

BL1Nkage, alumacomp, all
I sure would like to have the windows in my 07 triple black vert tinted (when it arrives) but all of the horror stories have me a little leary. Anyone in the Jax, Fl area know any place that will install the moleskin and tint?? Any suggestions appreciated.

ORIGINAL: jims07GT

BL1Nkage, alumacomp, all
I sure would like to have the windows in my 07 triple black vert tinted (when it arrives) but all of the horror stories have me a little leary. Anyone in the Jax, Fl area know any place that will install the moleskin and tint?? Any suggestions appreciated.




Have yet to replace my tint (this Wednesday) but based on what I have read Moleskin works! My advice...order and install the product yourself and then go to any reputable tint shop. I am a lefty loosey, right tighty sort of guy and installation was very straightforward. The "toughest" part...getting the plastic panel off in the door handle w/o scracthing it. I used the curved screwdriver that you get with paint for opening the can...worked like a charm.

Thanks.

Still waiting..............[sm=headbang.gif]

I just tinted my side Windows ... used the $40 pre-cut kit on eBay ... they came out great. I also bought adhesive backed felt from the Craft store and installed it on the inner window gasket prior to putting the tint in ... Tomorrow I tackle the rear window ...

Has anyone REPLACED their scratched tint? Were the windows themselves scratched as some here have suggested? What's the point of replacing the tint if the scratches are in the glass? And if they are, why wouldn't Ford have to replace the windows under warranty?

ORIGINAL: BigNasty06

Has anyone REPLACED their scratched tint? Were the windows themselves scratched as some here have suggested? What's the point of replacing the tint if the scratches are in the glass? And if they are, why wouldn't Ford have to replace the windows under warranty?


I'm having mine re-done by the same shop that originally did them, and believe me, I'm going to ask if I can see the windows after the get the scratched tint off and before they put the new tint on, just so I can see if the windows got scratched. I'll let you know.....and besides, if they are scratched, I owe someone a Starbucks coffee. :D

Although I did not ask the installer to check the window when they were replacing my tint, they did comment that if the tint scratched as quickly as it did from the wiper on my car then in all likelihood it was scratching the glass. Then they asked why Ford was not doing anything about it?!???!?!?!?

I guess Ford's too busy recalling MILLIONS of vehicles that burn down houses right now.

ORIGINAL: BigNasty06

Has anyone REPLACED their scratched tint? Were the windows themselves scratched as some here have suggested? What's the point of replacing the tint if the scratches are in the glass? And if they are, why wouldn't Ford have to replace the windows under warranty?



Had my tinting redone today and, no, my windows were NOT scratched underneath the old tint. Everything looked good....and now it looks even better with the new tinting and the moleskin installed to protect it. My fingers will stay crossed though!

Thanks Silencer... PLEASE keep us posted.

My new (replacement) tint was installed a week ago. Windows have been up and down about ten times since then and no scratches.

Moleskin works...

i just recently got my windows tinted and they used the johnsons film i belive thats how its spelled and i dont have any scratches. did anyone take pics of the scratches they have encountered on the tint? also every other time i roll down the windows i run my finger along the seals to make sure its clean.

Just ordered a kit. Once I get it in, next week, I'll put it on. Then take it to Mobile One (Audio Shop) to re-install new tint. Or maybe let them do it all together......

Thanks to everyone posting up their issues and actions. [sm=smiley20.gif]

I am having my windows re-done Sunday. I will let you guys know what the tint shop finds.

Had my old tint pulled off today, no scratches on the windows themselves. The tint shop didn't even charge me for the new tint!

That's why Pro Tint in Lakewood is THE BEST tint shop in and around Denver, Colorado! And yes, that's a shameless plug for them! :D

yep,

I thought i had dodged a bullet, but nope, I got the scratches too. Only lasted 2 weeks :(

About 4 on the drivers side, 2 on the pasenger.
Worst one is on the drivers side, dead smack in the middle, scratch deep enough to catch a fingernail that runs the full length of the window, top to bottom.

I'll be ordering the mole skins soonm and probably will have the windows redone once it gets really really bad.

can we get pics of these scratches

I'm going to check into these moleskins, thanks.

Drivers Side Window (http://www.suncoastsupply.net/timm/driv_tint001.gif)
Driver's Side, notice the 1 large scratch in front of the mirror.
Also notice the glue residue from the felt.
Way too hot in South Florida, Felt only lasted about 2 weeks.

Passenger Side Window (http://www.suncoastsupply.net/timm/pass_tint001.gif)
Multiple scratches, in front of mirror area.

ORIGINAL: MobyDickDog

I'd bet you a Starbucks coffee that your glass is scratched.;)



You owe me a Starbucks coffee. :)

Also... FWIW, the owner told me he had a couple other Mustang owners come in and they received letters from Ford apologizing for the problem. Not sure what FOMOCO did for them, but I figured I'd throw it out there.

Supposedly these customers went through Phil Long Ford in Denver/Lakewood, CO.

Courtesy Ford in Littleton, CO acted like I was goofy when I called them about it. FOMOCO should AT LEAST have to reimburse us all for these felt/moleskin kits we're having installed! Not to mention the poor folks that have to pay for the re-tint as well!

Did I just read that FOMOCO was ranked LAST in customer sat?

Well I've dropped the windows down a few times, and no scratches so far.

Gotta love that quality material FOMOCO used! I wonder where else they got off on the cheap?

I installed the fuzzy velcro side on mine in May. We have had weeks of 90+ weather here and no glue or scratch issues. I have to roll my window down all the time to get through the gate at my work, so it gets used a lot. I used the industrial strength version from Walmart. I found it to be the same box I found at a craft store, but cheaper.

Had the felt replaced, replaced the tint. Waited 5 days to lower the windows, abd the passenger side already has scratches in the EXACT same places as before.

But FOMOCO insists they never heard of this? Bad fuel pumps, bad rear diffs, and now this? F them... I should have gone with the Charger.

This is more than just felt IMO. The scratches are all in the same spots as they were before I had the windoes redone, right by the inside door handle. This is a design flaw with the door/handle/windows.

Is this still a problem on the '07s?

look on the inside window seal, if it is only rubber then probably

My 06 GT has had the same scratching problem on both windows. My car was tinted at the dealer before they put it in the showroom. A week after I bought it, scratches on both windows. The dealer said that they would re-tint the windows, but they were going to call Ford for a status, since it was a problem with every mustang they sold with tint. This was back in March.

About two weeks ago they called me and said that since Ford didn't have a solution, they were going to re-tint the windows and install felt. They did it and so far (2 weeks) no scratches on the tint.

Anyway, I did all this before I saw this post tonight. I am glad I tried the dealer before taking the door apart.

So the inner seal is causing all these problems? Surely there are other cars that use this same seal.

ORIGINAL: zangus

My 06 GT has had the same scratching problem on both windows. My car was tinted at the dealer before they put it in the showroom. A week after I bought it, scratches on both windows. The dealer said that they would re-tint the windows, but they were going to call Ford for a status, since it was a problem with every mustang they sold with tint. This was back in March.

About two weeks ago they called me and said that since Ford didn't have a solution, they were going to re-tint the windows and install felt. They did it and so far (2 weeks) no scratches on the tint.

Anyway, I did all this before I saw this post tonight. I am glad I tried the dealer before taking the door apart.

If you're asking me, I don't know for sure. I can only go by what the dealer told me. But the windows still don't have scratches on them!

Checked on getting my windows tinted and talked to the installer and he knew right away that I would need the felt on them. He has a roll handy and said that he puts the felt on at no extra charge. Looks like word is getting around about the scratches.

I appreciate you all discussing this on the forums. Saved me a lot of time and hassle. Wouldn't have known about the scratches if not for this forum.

Thanks

Rusty

I am definitely buying some strips...

My first stop when I got back into Flagstaff from buying my Mustang was at the tint shop. It was Friday about 5pm, asked if I could get "squeezed" into Saturday's schedule.... After seeing a new 06 black GT, they got me in... (had to give them the car all day, but soooooo worth it).

I used Diamond Auto Glass with Solar Guard. Did a hell of a job. They had done previous vechicals and would take any car there in the future, plus, I would refer 100%. They gave me no info on the potential scratching.

I drove, now at 900 miles, and started to see scratches. At the same time, I began to read the forums as a guest. I put two & two together really quick...

Returned to Diamond Auto Glass. It did not see new to them at all. They had one customer (dealer referred) with multiple stangs have to be done 3+ times... Diamond pay'd for it due to customer relations, ie dealer... (this is all fair and square). This is what they offered me:

A free retint, after that I am on my own (strip & retint is $85 for both fronts)
(or)
They will strip the tint and leave me naked.

I informed of them of the moleskin. They informed this is happening with other "new" autos.

What I have decided to do:

1. order moleskin
2. provide this thread & info to Diamond in Flagstaff
3. retint & have moleskin installed
4. keep windows up until I feel lucky (car is getting parked soon anyways)
5. test the moleskin & tint by using my windows as normal

#6. I am going to write a complaint & reimbursement (moleskin + further tints) "form" letter & send to Ford.
#7. I am going to call Ford on a very regular basis.
#8. Maintain a good relationship with my dealers/salespersons

I think the last three are most important. I know I am new, but we should really hit Ford up for fixing this problem. Tinting on a car like this is more than likely going to be done, why would they not only scratch us up, but not disclose an obvious change in parts, causing a major detailing disappointment and additional customer costs????

thanks for all the info, this forum is great, hope I didn't ramble to much, I am just upset.

Well, like most..I have been watching my tint like a hawk. In preparation for the scratches, I had purchased the blue-backed felt like the first week I had my Stang. Last night, under bright light...I noticed a tiny scratch close to the handle on the driver side. Saw the same on the passenger side...ny the way...Ipurchased my Stang in Jul 06 and have around 800 miles (not a whole lot). Have lowered the window may be 20 times (after all it's a convertible). So, anyway, without hesitation and went ahead and placed the felt on the rubber thinggy. The process was flawless thanks to the photos and explanations given here. Just wanted to share my come to "Jesus" story with all of you.

ORIGINAL: TPony

Well, like most..I have been watching my tint like a hawk. In preparation for the scratches, I had purchased the blue-backed felt like the first week I had my Stang. Last night, under bright light...I noticed a tiny scratch close to the handle on the driver side. Saw the same on the passenger side...ny the way...Ipurchased my Stang in Jul 06 and have around 800 miles (not a whole lot). Have lowered the window may be 20 times (after all it's a convertible). So, anyway, without hesitation and went ahead and placed the felt on the rubber thinggy. The process was flawless thanks to the photos and explanations given here. Just wanted to share my come to "Jesus" story with all of you.



Don't know what type of product that "blue-backed felt" is that you're referring to, but I can attest to the fact that MOLESKIN is definitely a product that works. You'll see in my post earlier on this thread that I am one of the owners who had scratches in my original tint after only a week or so of having the work done. Fortunately the company that did my tint (AutoTrim & Design in Olympia WA...kudos to Casey) was willing to re-do the work in the name of good quality customer service. They stripped the old (a relative term) tint off, installed Moleskin at no extra cost to me, and retinted the windows. That was done over two months ago -- I drive my Mustang regularly and hardly ever use the A/C, meaning my windows go up and down alot. To date, I have noticed ZERO scratches on the new tint, thanks to the Moleskin.

Summary: if you're using anything other than MOLESKIN to protect your tint, I believe you're using a lesser product. Moleskin DOES work.

Meant to say glue-backed black felt. Some folks have used it and stated that has worked for them. No questions about the effectiveness of Moleskin, and re-reading, my post I don't think I said anything bad or otherwise about the Moleskin. [sm=icon_stickpoke.gif]

ORIGINAL: TPony

Meant to say glue-backed black felt. Some folks have used it and stated that has worked for them. No questions about the effectiveness of Moleskin, and re-reading, my post I don't think I said anything bad or otherwise about the Moleskin. [sm=icon_stickpoke.gif]



No, no...I knew that. I was just helping out by saying that if you weren't familiar with Moleskin, it's great stuff. Wasn't sure what the blue stuff was that you referred to, but now I know it was a typo.

[sm=icon_cheers.gif]

Ok so I just spent 15 minutes reading four pages of very informative discussion. I wanted to tint my 05 but am now hesitant. Has anyone had problems with scratching after installing the moleskin? If not, then Ill just get that done as a precautionary step before getting the windows tinted. Thanks.

ORIGINAL: jpeng16990

Ok so I just spent 15 minutes reading four pages of very informative discussion. I wanted to tint my 05 but am now hesitant. Has anyone had problems with scratching after installing the moleskin? If not, then Ill just get that done as a precautionary step before getting the windows tinted. Thanks.



Definitely get the moleskin done first...or at the same time. It works.

I noticed the same problem on my 05. I was wanting to get darker tint anyway so I had them retinted. I had read this post a couple days weeks before and went ahead an ordered the moleskin and installed it. I had a different place do the tint this time and I have been using the windows almost everyday after cure time. No scratches yet. So....moleskin works and the windows DO NOT HAVE SCRATCHES, IT IS THE TINT THAT IS SCRATCHED! Good luck all!

ORIGINAL: jpeng16990

Ok so I just spent 15 minutes reading four pages of very informative discussion. I wanted to tint my 05 but am now hesitant. Has anyone had problems with scratching after installing the moleskin? If not, then Ill just get that done as a precautionary step before getting the windows tinted. Thanks.

I had major problems right away after having my windows tinted....since installing Moleskin and re-tinting it's all been good! Thank goodness my tinter stepped up to the plate and redid it for free so other than the price of the Moleskin and incovenience of time, it hasn't been too painful. However at the risk of repeating what has already been stated, where is Ford in all of this? When you go to Moleskin's webpage they only list model specific kits for three types of cars, one of them being the 05-07 Mustang. That speaks volumes. Come on Ford, make good!

ORIGINAL: alumacomp

ORIGINAL: jpeng16990

Ok so I just spent 15 minutes reading four pages of very informative discussion. I wanted to tint my 05 but am now hesitant. Has anyone had problems with scratching after installing the moleskin? If not, then Ill just get that done as a precautionary step before getting the windows tinted. Thanks.

I had major problems right away after having my windows tinted....since installing Moleskin and re-tinting it's all been good! Thank goodness my tinter stepped up to the plate and redid it for free so other than the price of the Moleskin and incovenience of time, it hasn't been too painful. However at the risk of repeating what has already been stated, where is Ford in all of this? When you go to Moleskin's webpage they only list model specific kits for three types of cars, one of them being the 05-07 Mustang. That speaks volumes. Come on Ford, make good!



No problems what so ever...get them both done...

My friends 05 started scratching his tint BAD, it was silly. Took it back to the dealer and they claimed something was warped. They claimed to "fix it" and they re-tinted his windows (only because tint was done there). A few months later...same crap.

On my 06 I wasn't having problems after I tinted, but sometimes at night when I look through my passenger window and a bright light is shining on it, I can see a faint scratch starting. So I ordered my moleskin and everything SEEMS to be ok for now.

I would definitely address this issue with your tinter. Its possible the tinter may already have heard of this problem in other cars and maybe have a similar product or solution on hand. Scratched tint can't be THAT unique. Or just order the moleskin and put it on before you go to the tint place.

I got my tinted on my 06 a week after I bought it. Started noticing scratches after a couple weeks. [:@] Just read this thread and called my tint place - they said they've seen this several times before. They are going to replace my tint under warranty and install the moleskin for 40 buck. I can't beat that and I don't have to F... with it![sm=happy046.gif]

ORIGINAL: ArkMustangDude

Is this still a problem on the '07s?



Hey all. I'm about to receive a Mustang I ordered 7 weeks ago and have been doing a bit of reading on these forums. I read most of the posts regarding these scratches but I have not seen anyone with a 2007 saying that they have the problem too. Has anyone noticed this on their '07? [sm=feedback.gif]

Nevermind. I saw another thread with '07 owners experiencing the same problem. :(

Does the moleskin add a strain to the window motor? I do not know how thick the moleskin is so I could just be speaking out of me arse right now. Any thoughts or issues?

(I use moleskin on certain areas of my feet for those long ass 15-20 mile road marches but I doubt auto version is the same thickness)

Might I ask of all the people with scratched window or tint, How often are you cleaning the seals (with or without moleskin) ?

OK, it's been a while now since the dealer did the final re-tint after saying the fixed the problem. So far so good. I don't know if they used moleskin or not, but my tint still doesn't have a scratch. I doubt that they used moleskin, but whatever they used, maybe the glue backed felted mentioned earlier.

As for seal cleaning, the car was on the showroom floor and the tint started scratching less than a week later. I wipe down the seals when I clean the interior, maybe two or three times a month.

Add me to the list of '07 models with this problem. [:@]

my dealer installed the tint on my '06 GT three months ago. I got a serious scratch on the drivers side above the handle (as previously described on this thread) so I'd say yes there is a problem and if you haven't experienced it, you're lucky.

You're lucky....for now that is!!!! mwooo hahahahhahahhahahh...sorry

looks like the only thing to really do is install this moleskin stuff....and call it a day.
now the question should be is there something cheaper and similar to the moleskin?

My tint (window) is scratched horribly. I also have Llumar tint and the place I got it installed said they will not replace it because it's not the products fault, it's Ford's. I'm goin to go to my dealer and figure all this out. But shouldn't the dealer pay for moleskin. After all, it's their problem that our windows are scratching, why should I pay $40 to fix their problem ?

2007 here with minor scratching on driver side. I have to swipe my badge to get into the garage at work.. so my window is used often. Guess i'll have to get the moleskin.

I ordered the moleskin... A package came in the mail today containing an instruction sheet and two pieces of adhesive backing with no moleskin attached to it... WTF? Who is in charge of quality control at that place?

LOL! I don't mean to laugh but that's pretty funny. You better complain to those ass h o l e s!!!!

ORIGINAL: Stormbringer

I ordered the moleskin... A package came in the mail today containing an instruction sheet and two pieces of adhesive backing with no moleskin attached to it... WTF? Who is in charge of quality control at that place?

ORIGINAL: Stormbringer

I ordered the moleskin... A package came in the mail today containing an instruction sheet and two pieces of adhesive backing with no moleskin attached to it... WTF? Who is in charge of quality control at that place?


That's because no repair material is needed forthe Mustang's non-existent window scratching problem :Dthanks Ford....

ORIGINAL: Stormbringer
I ordered the moleskin... A package came in the mail today containing an instruction sheet and two pieces of adhesive backing with no moleskin attached to it... WTF? Who is in charge of quality control at that place?


You know...when stuff like this happens to me I get really pissed. You have to take extra time to explain, request and complain. Vendor need to go the extra step to say "we are sorry". All that work deserves at least a dollar credit so I can by myself a cupcake to feel better.

Got a message back...

Unfortunately it has come to our attention that several kits were sent out
incomplete, therefore we will be sending one out to you along with a refund
of your initial shipping cost. A complimentary micro fiber towel will also
be included with your complete kit.

Due to the holidays, we will be shipping the first of the year.


We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and appreciate your
patience.


Have a Happy Holiday Season,


James Robertson
www.tintprotector.com (http://www.tintprotector.com/)


Not exactly a cupcake but I guess its ok... kinda irritated I have to wait another week for shipment though.

All - The pics and info have been gerat. I purchased the moleskin today and should get it before tinting next week (friday). I havethree questions though.

1) How long did it take to install the moleskin
2) Were there any of those plastic tree looking things holding the door in (and if so did you use the tool to keep them from breaking)?
3) After you reinstalled the doors did you notice any difference in fit and finish (the door, not the moleskin).

Since I've only had the car about a week, I'm a little nervous about pulling her apart...she'll thank me later

Any tint shop that doesnt know about Ford rubber holding dirt and scratching the tint is a suck shop. My guy told me right off the bat he had to put moleskin molding on.

I've been having this same problem. I just spoke to the ford dealership where i bought the car and they said $60 to have felt installed and $70 to retint the 2 windows. If i'd had the windows tinted there, they'd have put the felt on right away.

Nevermind...cant figure out how to delete this. Sorry.

I am selling high temperature Moleskin kits for the New Mustangs. I am the lead installer at Florida's oldest tint shop and this is tried and true. Holds up to the Florida heat with no problems at all. Very high end, and as good as any of the best Moleskin being sold out there. You will get (2) 40" x 1" pieces of Moleskin shipped Priority mail for only $25 and I accept Paypal or Money Order. I have a very high Ebay positive feedback score and will offer you very good service with a high end product. Contact me at jaketuckey@yahoo.com for more info.
Thanks,
Jake

Thanks Jake! I will be emailing soon and placing an order! What is your ebay ID so I can check that....just a precaution as I am from MI and you are from FLA. I use ebay all the time and was burned only once as a newbie to ebay...(that was 4 yrs ago). Later J

ORIGINAL: mygt500

Thanks Jake! I will be emailing soon and placing an order! What is your ebay ID so I can check that....just a precaution as I am from MI and you are from FLA. I use ebay all the time and was burned only once as a newbie to ebay...(that was 4 yrs ago). Later J


Pssh, don't worry about it. Just send him your bank account information, major credit card info, and social security number (tax purposes, of course) and he'll complete the transaction for you. He'll only take out exactly the cost of the moleskin he ships you (which seems to get lost in the mail every single time, for some silly reason) and that will be all.

Trust him, he's a good guy. My cousin's friend's brother knows him.

Yea raubt that will work too!! Anyway, mygt500, I was born and raised in Coldwater, MI. and just moved to Florida a year ago. I owned Tuckey Motorsports in Coldwater for almost 10 years. I sold out to my brother to move south. My Ebay ID is bdmridgeback also. So check me out, I am golden. I have them listed and have sold a few sets on Ebay anyway. You can buy it through Ebay or me directly to save the time. If you buy through Ebay just pay through Paypal and I'll ship out the next morning. I would never screw a person, but raubt is watching out for everyone!! Thanks! :)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/05-Up-Mustang-Window-Tint-Moleskin-Kit-Stop-Scratches_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ63689QQitemZ1 90098771298QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

ORIGINAL: BigNasty06

Also... FWIW, the owner told me he had a couple other Mustang owners come in and they received letters from Ford apologizing for the problem. Not sure what FOMOCO did for them, but I figured I'd throw it out there.

Supposedly these customers went through Phil Long Ford in Denver/Lakewood, CO.

Courtesy Ford in Littleton, CO acted like I was goofy when I called them about it. FOMOCO should AT LEAST have to reimburse us all for these felt/moleskin kits we're having installed! Not to mention the poor folks that have to pay for the re-tint as well!

Did I just read that FOMOCO was ranked LAST in customer sat?


I HATE COURTESY FORD in Denver. Shameless hate plug AGAINST them.

BTW - I just ordered the moleskin and am going to go back to my tint installer praying they will replace under tint warranty.

So im not the only one? I need mine replaced too

Well I just checked my car out. I don't have tint. But I guess Ford cheaped out on my 07 GT, because I don't even have the velcro backing on the inside of the window. Mine is just rubber, which will scratch my tint when I get it done. Guess I better order some Moleskin. Does anyone elses 07 not have any felt lining on their cars?

I have some moleskin I need to get rid of.. I decided not to tint. PM me if you're interested.

If I'm not mistaken, no car comes with felt from the factory (only if your dealer does it). I think.

ORIGINAL: luckydawg003

Well I just checked my car out. I don't have tint. But I guess Ford cheaped out on my 07 GT, because I don't even have the velcro backing on the inside of the window. Mine is just rubber, which will scratch my tint when I get it done. Guess I better order some Moleskin. Does anyone elses 07 not have any felt lining on their cars?

Well I know Tacobills mustang came with it, cause I saw his (How To:) and he had to remove the velcro stuff to put on the moleskin. Maybe only the 05 mustangs had the velcro stuff. Im not sure.

TacoBills didn't come with velcro installed at the factory. I'm willing to bet the velcro he was removing was another type of velcro that didn't stick properly or work that well.

Ill throw in..... That i bought 15 cent felt, cut strips out of it,and $3 double-sided tape at walmart and its held up for 3 months now and worked perfect.

And I have a late model '05, but no velcro or anything was in there

WOW this is still floating around from a year ago!? Get the moleskins and see Tacobills write up on how to install!

Do you guys know of any good tint shops in Brandon, FL? Thanks.

Just added the moleskin to my car yesterday. Very easy install. Now I can get my windows tinted, and not have to worry about scratches.

ORIGINAL: Stormbringer

Add me to the list of '07 models with this problem. [:@]

Same here! 2007 w/ build date of 02/2007. Was tinted by dealer in Denver, CO in April '07. Bought it
07/07/07 (best purchase ever!!) and got / discovered scratches within a week!! Will have it re-tinted and Moleskin added!

Well, I learned a hard lesson. I went last week and had the windows in my 06 gt vert tinted. I asked the company that did it whether or not I should have the felt or moleskin put in before the tint. the window tint company said "no, we've done several Mustangs and haven't had a problem with any of them" I asked them several times prior to getting the windows tinted and they said the same thing every time.

So after 5 days I put the windows down for the first time. Guess what I saw when I put them up? It looks like a cat was left in my car and went to work on these windows. I'm almost positive that when I call them and tell them about this they are going to tell me to go pound sand. They said they give a lifetime warranty on everything but scratches. I would hope that scratches would still be covered if it was less than a week since they tinted them to begin with.

I'm going to ask the company to replace the tint for free after I install moleskin but if they don't go for that I'm going to ask them to remove the tint and refund my money. I highly doubt I will get that either. So I will probably end up removing the tint myself and bitching about the window tint company the whole time. I figure that since it was on there for less than 1 week it shouldn't be too hard to remove but with the luck I've had so far, who knows. Best part about all of this is now it's going to be an up hill battle to talk my wife into any mods or additions to the mustang after this.

ORIGINAL: jeb865

Well, I learned a hard lesson. I went last week and had the windows in my 06 gt vert tinted. I asked the company that did it whether or not I should have the felt or moleskin put in before the tint. the window tint company said "no, we've done several Mustangs and haven't had a problem with any of them" I asked them several times prior to getting the windows tinted and they said the same thing every time.

So after 5 days I put the windows down for the first time. Guess what I saw when I put them up? It looks like a cat was left in my car and went to work on these windows. I'm almost positive that when I call them and tell them about this they are going to tell me to go pound sand. They said they give a lifetime warranty on everything but scratches. I would hope that scratches would still be covered if it was less than a week since they tinted them to begin with.

I'm going to ask the company to replace the tint for free after I install moleskin but if they don't go for that I'm going to ask them to remove the tint and refund my money. I highly doubt I will get that either. So I will probably end up removing the tint myself and bitching about the window tint company the whole time. I figure that since it was on there for less than 1 week it shouldn't be too hard to remove but with the luck I've had so far, who knows. Best part about all of this is now it's going to be an up hill battle to talk my wife into any mods or additions to the mustang after this.


I can't understand why folks aren't going after your ford dealer on this. The windows have a product flaw and Ford knows it. I went to my dealer and he (on warranty) replaced the window parts. He also replaced at no cost the tint, which in my case, I had the dealer install.

I have an 07 Coupe with window tint from the day i bought it installed by a popular tint place never scratched had it for probally9 months now but parked for last 2 because of winter

Take a razor blade and cut out the inside weather stripping. Problem solved free. I don't have a problem with water or the noise.

[:@] I had this occur to my windows this week, the dealer states the issue is not covered under warranty. Having read numerous articles here and elsewhere on the internet I have logged an official complaint with the NHTSB. Maybe that will get FORD's attention!

I didn't read the entire post (13 pgs) but has anyone mentioned that Ford does have felt replacments for the "rubber" aka the tint damaging weather stripping? I did some research and $70 later the problem was solved. The part numbers are:

8R3Z-6321456-A
7R3Z-6321457-A

Sorry if this is old news.

exactly what parts are those? this thread should be sticked.

Yea my tints started scratching as soon as i started to open up the windows, i ordered the moleskin and hope this will solve the problem for good!!!