Magnetic car curtains are a universal solution for protecting the interior from the sun, prying eyes and overheating. They are easy to use, do not require complicated installation and are suitable for most car models. However, even such a simple device can raise questions: how to properly secure the curtains so that they do not fly off while moving, do not scratch the body and last a long time?

In this article we will look at all the nuances of installing magnetic curtains - from choosing the right kit to the final check. You will learn what mistakes car owners most often make, how to prepare the surface of the body, and what additional accessories will help make the mount even more reliable. And if you have already encountered problems (for example, the curtains fall off on bumps or leave marks), then you will find here practical tips for eliminating them.

Magnetic curtains are light-protective panels that are attached to metal body elements (usually doorways or pillars) using built-in magnets. Unlike traditional curtains with suction cups or Velcro, they:

  • 🔹 No drilling required or body modifications - simply attach the panel to the metal.
  • 🔹 Versatile: suitable for sedans, hatchbacks, crossovers and even minibuses (if the size is selected correctly).
  • 🔹 Easy to remove - for example, for washing or ventilating the interior.
  • 🔹 Doesn't block your view driver, if installed on the rear or side windows.

Popular brands that produce such curtains: Heininger, Magna Shade, Covercraft, as well as many budget Chinese manufacturers (for example, AutoExpress or CarMate). The price varies from 800 to 5000 rubles per set, depending on the material, number of magnets and brand.

The main material of manufacture is polyester fabric with UV protection or metallized film. Magnets are usually sewn into the edges of the curtains and covered with a protective layer so as not to scratch the paintwork. However cheap models can use open neodymium magnets, which oxidize over time and stain the body.

📊 What curtains do you use in your car?
Magnetic
On suction cups
Rolled
None
Other

Types of magnetic mounts: what they are and how they differ

Not all magnetic blinds are the same—their mounts vary in adhesive strength, location, and material. Let's look at the main types:

Mounting type Description Pros Cons
Built-in magnets Magnets are sewn into the edges of the curtain, evenly distributed around the perimeter ✅ Reliable fixation
✅ Not visible from the outside		 ❌ It is difficult to replace a magnet if it breaks
❌ May become deformed when washed
Overhead magnets Magnets are attached to the top on a fabric base (for example, Velcro) ✅ Easy to replace separate magnet
✅Adjustable grip strength		 ❌ Visible from the outside
❌ May cling to clothes
Magnetic tape Flexible tape with magnets along the entire edge (often found in cheap models) ✅ Flexible - suitable for curved surfaces
✅ Low price		 ❌ Poor grip on uneven surfaces
❌ Wears out quickly
Magnets with protective pads The magnets are covered with silicone or rubber caps ✅ Do not scratch the body
✅ Last longer		 ❌ More expensive than usual
❌ Linings may fall off

For most passenger cars, the best option is sewn-in magnets with adhesion force of at least 0.8–1.2 kg/cm². For SUVs or cars with a thick layer of noise, it is better to choose models with high power overhead magnets (up to 1.5 kg/cm²).

⚠️ Attention: If your car has aluminum body (for example, Jaguar XE, Audi A8 or some models Tesla), magnetic curtains will not work - the magnets simply won’t stick. In this case, consider suction cup or roller blind options.

Preparing the car before installing curtains

Even the most powerful magnets will not hold well if the body surface is dirty or defective. Preparation takes 10–15 minutes, but significantly increases the reliability of fastening:

Remove dust and dirt from the mounting points|Wipe the surface with a degreaser (for example, White spirit or Isopropyl alcohol)|Check for chipped or blistered paint under the magnets|Make sure there is no thick layer of wax or polish on the body|Dry the surface (moisture reduces adhesion)-->

Pay special attention to:

  • 🧴 Degreasing: Even a thin layer of silicone polish can reduce magnetic adhesion by 30-40%. Use lint-free wipes.
  • 🔍 Chips and rust: If there is bare metal under the magnet, corrosion may occur over time. If necessary, paint over the defect anti-corrosion varnish.
  • 🌡️ Body temperature: In hot weather (>30°C), magnets may not hold as well due to metal expansion. If the car has just arrived, let it cool for 10-15 minutes.

If you are installing curtains for the first time, check the strength of the magnets on an unnecessary metal object (for example, on a refrigerator). High-quality magnets should hold the weight of the curtain suspended for at least 5–7 seconds.

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Before installing for the first time, lay the curtains out in the sun for 10-15 minutes - this will help them take their natural shape and fit better to the body.

Step-by-step instructions: how to attach magnetic curtains

Installation takes no more than 10 minutes, but requires care. Follow this algorithm:

  1. Unpack the kit and check that all curtains are present (usually 2 side + 1 rear). Make sure the magnets are not damaged or falling off.

  2. Try on curtains to door openings without attaching them. They should overlap the glass by 1–2 cm on all sides, but not interfere with closing the door.

  3. Apply the markings (optional): if the curtains are too large, mark the trim line with a pencil (for example, for Toyota RAV4 or Kia Sportage height adjustment is often required).

  4. Secure the curtains, starting from the top edge. Press the magnets onto the body, moving from the center to the edges. Don't press too hard - light pressure is enough.

  5. Check the fixation: Pull the curtain down slightly. If it moves without effort, add additional magnets (they can be purchased separately).

For front side windows they are often used one continuous curtain, which is attached to the rack and threshold. Rear curtains can be separate (left + right side) or whole (for hatchbacks).

What to do if the curtain does not lie flat?

If the curtain wrinkles or lags behind the edges, try:

1. Heat it with a hairdryer (temperature 40–50°C) - this will make the material more elastic.

2. Attach temporarily with tape for 1-2 hours so that it takes the shape of the body.

3. Add additional magnets to problem areas (available at auto accessory stores).

After installation test the curtains in motion: Drive on an uneven road (such as a speed bump). If they do not fly off at speeds up to 60 km/h, the fastening is reliable.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes encounter problems when installing magnetic curtains. Here are the most common errors and ways to solve them:

  • 🚗 Curtains fly off on bumps → Cause: weak magnets or dirty surface. Solution: Add more magnets or clean the body again.
  • 🎨 Marks remain on the paint → Cause: exposed magnets or grains of sand underneath them. Solution: stick silicone pads on the magnets or use a protective film.
  • 🔄 The curtains roll up when the door is opened → Cause: Wrong size or too hard material. Solution: Trim the curtain or choose a model with elastic edges.
  • ☀️ Poor protection from the sun → Reason: thin material without UV filter. Solution: replace with curtains with a metallic coating (for example, Magna Shade Pro).

Another typical problem is magnets stick to the body after being parked for a long time in the rain. This occurs due to the oxidation of neodymium magnets. To avoid this:

  • Regularly (every 1-2 months) remove the curtains and wipe the magnets with a dry cloth.
  • Apply a thin layer to magnets silicone grease (for example, WD-40 Specialist).
  • Store curtains in a dry place, avoiding moisture.
⚠️ Attention: If rust stains from magnets have already appeared on the body, do not try to paint them over with regular enamel. Use anti-corrosion primer (for example, Body 992) and only then apply paint. Otherwise, rust will continue to spread under the paintwork.

Additional accessories for secure mounting

If standard magnetic curtains do not provide sufficient fixation, you can use auxiliary elements:

Accessory Purpose Application example Cost, ₽
Additional magnets Increased traction in problem areas For rear doors Volkswagen Tiguanwhere standard magnets are not enough 200–500
Silicone pads Body protection from scratches For magnets on curtains Heininger 5701 300–800
Adhesive magnetic tape Fixing curtains on plastic elements (for example, on racks) For attaching to the top of a doorway in Hyundai Creta 400–1200
Protective film Prevents micro-scratches Sticks under magnets on the body Kia Rio or Renault Duster 600–1500

For car owners with tinted windows Curtains with two-layer structure: The outer layer reflects the sun, while the inner layer absorbs heat. Such models (for example, Covercraft UVS100) reduce the temperature in the cabin by 10–15°C.

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If you often park outdoors, the combination of magnetic sunshades + window tinting provides maximum protection from UV rays and overheating.

Caring for magnetic curtains: how to extend their service life

With proper care, quality curtains last 3-5 years. Basic rules:

  • 🧼 Cleaning: wipe the curtains with a damp cloth and soapy water (do not use abrasives!). Suitable for removing stains glass cleaner.
  • 🌞 Drying: after washing the car, remove the curtains and dry them unfolded (not on the radiator!).
  • 🧲 Magnets: Check their grip strength once every 3 months. If the magnet is weakened, replace it (the cost of one is 50–150 rubles).
  • 📦 Storage: in winter (if you do not use curtains), put them in a case and store them in the cabin, and not in the trunk, where temperature changes are possible.

If the curtains have lost their shape (for example, after being stored rolled up for a long time), they can be restored by steam:

  1. Hang a curtain in the bathroom during a hot shower (or use a steam generator).
  2. After 10–15 minutes, lay it out on a flat surface and let it cool.
  3. Repeat the procedure if necessary.
⚠️ Attention: Do not wash magnetic curtains in a washing machine - this destroys the structure of the magnets and fabric. The maximum that is allowed is hand washing in warm water (up to 30°C) without spinning.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about magnetic curtains

Can magnetic curtains be used on a car with an aluminum body?

No, magnets will not stick to aluminum. In this case the alternatives are:

  • Curtains with suction cups (for example, Enovoe).
  • Roller blinds with Velcro fastening.
  • Stationary curtains sewn into the door trim.
What if magnets scratch paint?

There are several solutions:

  • Stick on magnets silicone pads (sold as a set or separately).
  • Place under magnets before installation protective film (for example, vinyl).
  • Replace the curtains with a model with closed magnets (for example, Magna Shade Premium).

If scratches have already appeared, treat them polish with wax (for example, Turtle Wax).

How many magnets should there be on one curtain?

The optimal amount depends on the size:

  • For side curtains (door) - 6–8 magnets.
  • For rear curtain (sedan) - 10–12 magnets.
  • For station wagons/hatchbacks — 14–16 magnets.

If there are fewer magnets, the curtain will not adhere well to uneven surfaces. Anything more increases the risk of scratches.

Is it possible to drive with magnetic curtains on the highway?

Yes, but with reservations:

  • At speed up to 90 km/h High quality curtains hold up well.
  • When higher speed (110+ km/h) disruptions are possible due to wind load. In this case it is better to use internal roller blinds.
  • Before driving, check the fixation - especially on the rear windows, where turbulence is higher.
How to remove curtains if the magnets are stuck?

If the curtain does not come off due to oxidation of the magnets:

  1. Water the edge of the curtain warm water (not boiling water!).
  2. Gently pry up the edge plastic card or a mediator.
  3. If that doesn't help, use rust remover (for example, WD-40), but don't spray it on the paint!

Clean the magnets after removal sandpaper (1000-1200 grit) and apply a thin layer of lubricant to them.