Tinted windows aren’t only for cosmetic reasons. They perform a variety of functions, which are able to block harmful UV rays, which can cause harm to people in the vehicle, and minimize wear on the car’s interior materials, providing more privacy and keeping the vehicle cool. Additionally, the tinting film may function similarly to safety glass, stopping the windows from splattering shards across the entire area in the case incident. There are a variety of window tints available, and with different types of material, the cost will vary. If any of these advantages of tinting your windows have been arousing your curiosity, take a look at the cost of tinting your vehicle’s windows and the options available.

What Is Car Window Tinting?

Window tinting for cars is a method of adding tinted transparent films or coating to the interior of the car’s windows. In thickness, the tint and the material used vary. If the window tint has a dark tint, it may make it difficult to see, especially at night. This is why every state has laws that determine how much tinting can be allowed on a window. The window tint laws are the amount of light permitted through, which is called Visible Light Transmission. These laws be a part of how much of the windshield may legally be tinted. Tints can be made at home, however, professional assistance is advised.

How Does Window Tint Installation Work?

The initial step in the process of tinting your windows is cleaning and preparing your windows. After that, a thin piece of tinted film is cut to fit the window, then applied by using a bonding agent, and then smoothed using the help of a squeegee in order to remove the bubbles and wrinkles. The applicator trims around the edge of the film to ensure the perfect fitting. 

Which Windows Are Tinted?

A simple tinting job ought to be applied to every window in the vehicle, excluding the sunroof (if appropriate) along with the glass. This includes all the side windows, including triangle windows as well as back windows. The cost should include the labor and materials required to tint the windows. Also, it should include at least a one-year guarantee against cracking, bubbling, and peeling. Certain films come with a lifetime guarantee.

Can I Tint My Car Windows Myself?

If you want to tint your car’s windows, you can do it yourself. It’s not recommended, however, unless you’re highly skilled because of the skills required to do it correctly. It might sound simple to cut and apply a film of plastic onto your car’s windows, however, the process is complex and requires a lot of accuracy. DIY tint kits are available on the internet and in auto parts stores. They generally, they cost less than $100. However, they need a lot of concentration and perseverance.

Types of Window Tinting

There are five primary kinds of tinting for auto windows that comprise: 

Dyed

The window tinting dyed with dyes is comprised of several layers of film dyed to absorb sunlight. The tint can be adjusted according to your preference level of darkness. The dyed tint is the least expensive and well-known type of window tint. Although it is the most popular method, it doesn’t offer the highest amount of UV protection when in comparison to other kinds.

Metalized

Metalized tints are composed of metallic particles that reflect to block out sunlight. This kind of tint also helps strengthen windows, making them less likely to break should there be a crash. Metal particles from the film make windows appear more attractive and shiny. The only drawback of tinting windows with metal is that it may disrupt GPS signals.

Hybrid

Hybrid window tints are made up of dye with metal particles. They’re more expensive than conventional dyes. They don’t create more radio interference than metalized tints, and they aren’t as shiny.

Carbon

Carbon window tints are made up of carbon fibers. They are more effective than dyed or metalized tints in blocking the UV rays of the sun. They also help insulate the vehicle and decrease the heat by approximately 40 percent. Carbon tinting is costly and will cost you an extra amount for its longevity as well as the assurance that it doesn’t change color over time.

Ceramic

Ceramic tint is the most efficient of all types of window tints and blocks over 100 percent of UV rays. It comes with the cost of a price since the window tints made of ceramic are among the most costly. Since ceramic particles possess strong thermal resistance and provide the same amount of sun reflection while also providing insulation. Ceramic window tints of high-quality decrease the internal temperature of your vehicle by approximately half. They are shatterproof and don’t require as dark a tint as other varieties.

How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost?

There are a variety of varieties and brands that can impact the price of window tinting; however, the typical cost of tinting a car for passengers is between $250 to $600 for basic non-reflective films. For metallic or high-performance ceramic film, it could be as high as $800. The model of the vehicle also is a factor. Trucks have fewer windows and are therefore more expensive, with an average price of $350. Minivans and SUVs are the most expensive due to the amount of windows and size. The prices for these cars are $250-$750. Coupes feature large slanted rear windows, which makes them more costly than sedans. They are usually around $200-$600. Make sure you choose a reliable tint shop that provides an acceptable warranty on their window tinting service. Certain window tint films provide an unlimited warranty, while other films have a less definite period of warranty. It’s not one of those costs you’ll want to revisit each year. 

Bottom Line

There is a widespread belief that tinting windows is illegal. If you’re interested in the tinting of your windows, whether solely for aesthetics or to safeguard your interior, it’s legal if you adhere to the laws of your state. If you intend to sell your vehicle after tinting the windows, be aware that it can affect the resale value. Some buyers will appreciate tinted windows, whereas the drivers of SUVs and sedans may not. This means that you may not get back what you paid to get the tinted windows when it’s time to sell it.