At the end of a long summer day, the last thing you want is to climb into a sweltering hot car with
a steering wheel that’s too hot to touch. Even worse, excessive sunlight could damage the seats
and interior of your vehicle. The solution may be as simple as adding auto window tint to provide
much-needed protection from the sun’s harmful rays while adding privacy and style.

Benefits of Auto Window Tint

The tinting process involves applying a thin transparent window film to the glass, while still maintaining visibility. Beyond emphasizing your aesthetic, tinted windows can cut down harmful UV and infrared rays. Not only does this help prevent sunburn for the driver and passengers, but it also helps prevent fading and damage to the vehicle’s interior. This is especially important if you have leather seats. With a cooler interior, you don’t need to use the air conditioner as much, which in turn improves fuel efficiency.

Another important aspect of auto window tinting is the increased privacy and security it provides. Tinted windows make it difficult for prying eyes to see into the vehicle, so they may deter thieves. Additionally, tinted windows add strength to the glass, so it’s harder to break. In the event of an accident, the window film helps hold the shattered glass together.

Types of Auto Window Tint

There is no one-size-fits-all auto window tint. Balance the different properties and price points to find
the right tint for your vehicle.

Dyed Auto Window Tint

Darkens the glass to absorb sun rays before they make it into your car.
This affordable option is very versatile since you can choose the colors, darkness, or styles that suit your taste.

Metalized Auto Window Tint

Keeps the interior cool and provides better UV protection than dyed tint because it reflects the sunlight more than it absorbs it.

Carbon Auto Window Tint

Upgraded film infused with tiny carbon particles. This type has a fade-resistant matte finish and is especially efficient at minimizing heat damage.

Ceramic Auto Window Tint

The top-of-the-line window tint. This luxurious film provides up to 99% UV protection, minimizes sun damage, strengthens the glass, and is the most energy-efficient option. While being a great option, ceramic auto window tint is not the most budget-friendly option.

Average Cost of Tinted Car Windows

The cost of tinted windows varies quite a bit, depending on your vehicle and the type of tint you choose. For an average sedan, you can expect to pay between $100 – $400 for the side and rear windows. Tinting for larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks may run $800 or more. Vehicles with large or unusually-shaped windows can further increase costs.

You can save money by going with a DIY kit that costs about $100 or less, but the application requires a skilled hand. If you want to tint your car windows, you may want to look at it as an investment in protecting your car’s resale value, so it’s usually best to leave this to the pros.

Is Auto Window Tint Legal?

The laws surrounding tinted car windows vary. Each state has its own requirements about visible light transmission – that is, the darkness of the tint – and which windows may be tinted. Tinting your windows probably won’t void your vehicle’s warranty, but some installation practices could. Check with the manufacturer and read the fine print before applying tint. Hiring a window film installer ensures that you are following the local laws and regulations in regard to auto window tint.

Tinted windows can make a tremendous difference in reducing sun damage, temperature
fluctuations, and glare. Adding a little tint to your vehicle’s glass could be a simple solution to a
whole host of driving issues.