How do you install car window shades?
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Installing custom-fit magnetic car window shades is quick and tool-free. Simply align the shade’s edges with your window frame and let the built-in magnets snap into place. These UV-blocking mesh screens fit perfectly around your glass, instantly reducing heat and glare from the harsh Aussie sun.
Aussie drivers know that car window shades are an essential accessory for comfort and safety. They block out brutal sunlight and keep your vehicle’s interior cool, helping to protect your dashboard and upholstery from cracking or fading. ClickShades offers custom-fit shades (including magnetic “Click Shades” for side windows and windscreen shields) that are precision-cut for your exact make, model and year. Built with triple-layer mesh, they block up to 87% of UV rays – perfect for long drives under the Aussie sun and protecting kids in the back seat.
Step 1: Get the Right Shades for Your Car
Before you start, make sure you have the correct shade kit for your vehicle. ClickShades sells “perfect-fit” magnetic shades for most popular models. Check that the box or product listing matches your car’s year, make and model. This ensures the shade’s frame and mesh will contour exactly to your window, giving full coverage. It’s like ordering a tailored suit for your car – each set is made-to-measure. You’ll avoid frustration later by having the right size shades on hand.
Step 2: Prepare Your Car
For a smooth install, start with clean windows and frames. Brush away any dust or crumbs from the top edge and corners of each window. This helps the magnets grab the metal frame securely. Roll down the window a little (about an inch) so you can tuck part of the shade’s edge under the rubber seal. If you have car mats or a boot liner, clear some space to work without scratching anything.
- Gather all your shades. Lay out each window shade on a flat surface. You can flip them open to check which shade is for which window (often marked or shaped differently for front/rear windows).
- Park in a cool spot. If the interior is super hot, open the doors or windows to air it out before fitting the shades. This way the plastic magnets will grip better on the frame.
No special tools are needed – installation takes under 2 minutes for each shade.
Step 3: Install the Side and Rear Window Shades
Now it’s time to fit the magnetic shades on the side (and rear) windows:
- Lower the window slightly. Open the car door on the side you’re working on and roll down the window about 2–3 cm (1 inch).
- Position the shade edge. Take the shade and press the top or outer edge of its frame into the window channel (behind the rubber seal at the top of the door frame). The shade’s magnets should line up with the metal surrounding the window.
- Let the magnets click. Gently release the shade; the magnetic strips will “click” onto the door frame. You’ll feel or hear them snap into place. Ensure the magnets are flush against the frame — this holds the shade secure, even when you roll the window back up.
- Lower the window fully. Once the top is in place, roll the window up carefully. The window glass will clamp behind the shade’s bottom edge, sealing it in. Check the top again to make sure the magnets didn’t shift when you closed the window.
- Adjust coverage. Smooth out the shade so it covers the entire glass. The mesh is stretchy but sturdy; it should block almost all sunlight.
Repeat on each rear or side door. When done correctly, these custom-fit shades won’t fall down – they stay put without straps because of the magnetic clip system. This design is “click-into-place”, so you can install and remove them over and over with no damage.
Step 4: Install the Windscreen Sunshade
Many kits include a front windscreen shade. This one usually folds up like an accordion or comes as a rigid panel. Here’s a quick way to fit it:
- Unfold the shade. If it’s a fold-up style, open it fully so it’s as wide as your windscreen. If it’s a rigid panel, remove any packaging.
- Place behind the mirror. Tuck the top of the shade behind your rearview mirror and push it up against the windscreen glass. If there are magnets or suction cups, press them to the frame or glass.
- Hook it on. For full-coverage shades, the top edge often hooks over the mirror or hooks onto the sun visors. Make sure the shade sits flat against the glass with no big gaps.
- Roll down the mirror or use the sun visor. Some shades extend beyond the mirror; gently lower your mirror or press the sun visors down to hold the shade in place.
Once fitted, this sunshade will block morning or afternoon sun through the windscreen on hot Aussie days. It’s easy to remove and stow in your boot when driving.
Step 5: Check and Enjoy
After installing all shades, do a quick inspection:
- Even coverage: Stand outside and look at each window from a slight angle. The mesh should cover the glass fully. If you see a gap, pop the door open and realign the magnets or frame.
- Roll the windows: Try rolling a window up and down. A proper fit should stay tight when the window is up and remove cleanly when down.
- Test on the road: Take a short drive and notice the difference. The interior should feel noticeably cooler, and glare should be reduced. The kids (or your pets) in the back will thank you for the extra shade!
These shades are quick to remove too. In winter or at night, simply fold or pull them away and stow them flat. That way, you have a clear view of the road when you need it.
Installing car window shades in Australia is that simple – they practically snap into place. The whole process takes only a few minutes per window, and you’ll save hours of discomfort under the blazing sun.
For example, ClickShades’ high-quality shades are made in Australia and “built for Australian conditions”. They feature a triple-layer mesh that is thicker than most standard screens, giving superior heat protection. Once installed, they block up to 87% of UV rays, which means cooler drives and extra protection for your dash, leather seats and passengers.
Feel confident on the road knowing you have the best sunshades in Australia covering your windows. ClickShades even offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not happy.
Whether it’s a sunny school run, a long road trip up the coast, or just a quick errand in the midday heat, fitting these car shades is an easy upgrade with big payoffs. Drive easy knowing your car (and little ones in the back) are shielded from the harsh Aussie sun.
Ready to give your car instant relief from the heat? Check out ClickShades’ range of custom-fit car sunshades – they’re designed for Aussie cars and come with fast shipping and a satisfaction guarantee. You can find the perfect shade kit for your model at the ClickShades store.