Whether you accidentally splatter paint on your vehicle window during a paint job or you decorate windows for other purposes, you will need to remove the paint.
Cleaning paint from auto glass is straightforward, but it helps to know what materials were used. Car window paint can be oil-based or water-based. Follow this guide to remove either type of paint from your windows
Prepare to Remove the Paint
To remove paint from vehicle windows, you need:
Park the vehicle in a well-ventilated area so you won't breathe too much of the fumes. Try to park the vehicle on concrete or cover grass with plastic.
Loosen the Paint
Mix a solution of several drops of liquid detergent and warm water in a bucket. Moisten a sponge or rag in the mixture, and wet the painted area. This won't melt the paint, but the soap and water will loosen it.
If you have a large amount of paint to remove, buy a commercial-grade scraper. Scrape the paint around the perimeter with the razor held at an angle, placing the edge against the paint at a 30-45 degree angle to keep from scratching. You should also press the blade forward and raise it to avoid scratching. Clean paint from the remainder of the window using up and down strokes.
Use a plastic putty knife to scrape tinted windows. Add more soap solution, and use a scrubbing pad, if you still have trouble scraping it. But be careful to not let paint fall into the vents; you can easily avoid this by covering the vents with a towel. Sweep or vacuum the remaining paint chips.
Apply Acetone or Lubricant
Acetone helps to remove stubborn paint, or thick paint, such as from overspray. Lacquer thinners, paint thinners, or mineral spirits work the same way. Wear rubber gloves when working with acetone or other solvents, and cover the doors or body with plastic or towels, since acetone can remove paint.
Dip a rag or sponge in acetone, and wipe the whole window. Use the razor blade to scrape the paint, and sweep the remnants. Alternately, rub on a thin coat of penetrating lubricant and let it stand ten minutes.
Wash the window using the detergent and water solution to remove residue. Let the window dry naturally, or dry it with a towel. Follow up with a glass cleaner.
If these methods don't work or you are afraid to scratch your windows, it may be better to take you car to a professional auto glass repair shop, such as Coats Auto Body and Paint.