The oleophobic coating is an ultra-thin layer applied to the glass of multimedia screens and digital instrument panels. It repels oils and reduces the visibility of fingerprints. In practice, it makes the touchscreen feel smoother and more pleasant to the touch. However, over time this coating loses its properties and begins to wear off: the screen becomes matte, with streaks and worn-out areas in high-contact zones.
The photo below shows a real case — an Audi Q7 instrument panel with visible coating wear.
Where oleophobic coating is used (which vehicles)
The oleophobic layer is applied on most modern vehicles with touchscreens and digital panels:
- Premium segment: Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Lexus, Volvo.
- Digitally progressive brands: Tesla.
- Mass-market segment: Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet and others.
The larger and higher-quality the display (high resolution, wide area — e.g. 10"+ or 12"+ multimedia units and digital instrument clusters), the more noticeable the coating defects become.
Why oleophobic coating wears off — key reasons
- Improper cleaning Using household chemicals, alcohol-based solutions, ammonia, or abrasives destroys the layer.
- Frequent mechanical friction
Constant touches in the same areas, use of rough cloths, or contact with rings/long nails. - Thermal stress
High cabin temperatures and sudden changes (e.g. parking in the sun) accelerate wear. - Micro-particles and abrasives
Dust, sand, and fine debris act as abrasives during cleaning. - Poor factory application
In rare cases, the original coating is insufficiently durable from the factory.
How quickly the problem occurs (realistic timelines)
- Typical range: 1–3 years with careful use.
- Intensive use / improper care: first signs may appear within a few months.
- Premium vehicles: defects are more visible due to high-resolution screens — imperfections stand out more. Note: restoring the original factory layer is impossible — only partial improvement or long-term protection is achievable.
Which vehicles show the problem most often
It is more noticeable on vehicles with large, high-contrast displays (Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Tesla) because defects are visually prominent. Budget models often have lower-contrast, lower-resolution screens, where coating wear is less disturbing.
Proper screen care — recommendations (to avoid damaging the coating)
- Use microfiber only. A soft, lint-free cloth is the main tool.
- Electronics-safe cleaners. Use professional sprays without alcohol or aggressive solvents.
- Do not rub forcefully. Gentle wipes are enough — avoid pressing on the glass.
- Clean regularly. Better to clean lightly and often than harshly and rarely.
- Protect from sunlight. Park in the shade or use sunshades.
- Avoid dirty hands. Oils, creams, or grease accelerate wear — wipe your hands first.
What to do if the coating is already damaged — options and step-by-step recommendations
Option A — temporary restoration with liquid kits (oleophobic kits)
- Pros: quick results, low cost.
- Cons: short lifespan (a few weeks–months); quality varies by kit.
- Quick guide: clean the screen with microfiber, optionally remove remaining coating (see Option B), apply the solution as instructed, let cure for 8–12 hours.
Option B — carefully removing the remaining coating
Warning: alcohol-based solutions speed up removal but may damage adhesives or plastic frames. Proceed carefully.
- Turn off the screen.
- Using a clean microfiber cloth slightly dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol (or electronics cleaner), gently wipe the worn areas.
- Do not rub aggressively or stay in one spot too long.
- Dry with a clean microfiber.
- After removal, avoid aggressive chemicals; move directly to protection (see Option C).
Option C — apply a protective glass (recommended)
- Pros: reliable long-term protection; has its own oleophobic coating; hides existing defects; prevents further wear.
- Cons: requires precise sizing or professional installation.
- Recommendation: this is the most effective solution for most screens.
How to choose protective glass for a car multimedia screen
- Measure accurately. Measure the active area without bezels: diagonal, width, and height.
- Choose matte or glossy. Matte reduces glare, glossy preserves color richness.
- Thickness and sensitivity. Tempered glass (0.2–0.4 mm, hardness up to 9H) ensures good touch sensitivity and scratch resistance. Hybrid glass (multilayer plastic) is also durable and easier to apply/remove.
- Choose model-specific glass or use custom cutting/shaping services.
Why we recommend Pixsel protective glass
Pixsel specializes in protective glass and films for automotive multimedia systems. Key advantages:
- Durable oleophobic coating — keeps screens clean and smooth to the touch.
- High transparency without loss of color or contrast.
- Precise fit and neat installation — no gaps.
- Protection from scratches, micro-cracks, and further wear.
- Custom sizing available for different vehicles, plus professional installation.
Recommendation: At the first signs of oleophobic wear (matte spots, streaks, roughness) it is best to install Pixsel protective glass. This is a reliable, aesthetic, and cost-effective long-term solution.
Step-by-step guide: how to install Pixsel protective glass (general procedure)
- Preparation
- Turn off the screen and, if necessary, disconnect the multimedia system as per manufacturer’s manual.
- Prepare a clean microfiber, lint-free wipes, and a dust-removal kit (silicone sticky tape or dust sticker).
- Cleaning
- Remove any old coating remains and dirt.
- Clean with electronics-safe spray, then wipe dry with microfiber.
- Use sticky tape to lift fine dust particles.
- Fitting
- Test-fit the glass without removing its protective film to check alignment.
- Application
- Peel off the adhesive-side film per Pixsel instructions.
- Carefully align and lower the glass onto the screen.
- Press from the center outward, pushing out air bubbles with microfiber or a soft card.
- Final check
- Test touchscreen responsiveness and check for bubbles.
- Leave untouched for 30–60 minutes to complete adhesion.
Summary
Can the factory oleophobic layer be restored?
No, not fully. Liquid kits provide only a temporary effect. The most reliable long-term solution is protective glass.
How often should protective glass be replaced?
Typically, it lasts for years. Replace if visibly damaged or if clarity is compromised.
Does protective glass affect touchscreen performance?
High-quality thin glass does not reduce sensitivity.
The oleophobic layer improves screen usability, but it is not permanent. Proper care delays wear, but once damage appears, installing protective glass is the best solution. Pixsel offers screen-specific options with durable oleophobic treatment, high clarity, and precise fit.
Order Pixsel protective glass tailored to your screen or contact us for consultation and professional installation. The easiest way to keep your display looking and feeling like new.
