Putting tint on the outside of a car window means adding a colored film on the external glass surface to reduce sun glare and protect privacy. The tint film blocks some light from entering the vehicle while allowing vision to pass through.
Can you put tint on the outside of car windows? This is a common question many car owners ask themselves. While interior window tinting is a popular choice, putting tint on the exterior raises some concerns.
You can technically install tint film on the outside glass of your vehicle. However, exterior tinting may be illegal or require a permit depending on your state and local tinting laws. It can also be more prone to bubbling, scratching or peeling off over time due to external elements like weather and road debris. Professional installation is highly recommended for best results and durability if putting tint on the outside of car windows.
Types Of Car Tint Are Best For Privacy And Heat Reduction
There are two main types of tints that are effective at reducing heat – ceramic and carbon tints. Ceramic tints work by reflecting infrared light away from the car. They keep the car cooler on hot days without affecting visibility. Carbon tints do a similar job of reflecting infrared rays. Both ceramic and carbon tints are great options for reducing interior car temperature.
Dyes tints also do a good job of reducing heat but they are not as effective as ceramic or carbon options. Dye tints absorb ultraviolet light and heat before releasing it back inside the car. While they offer some temperature reduction, the cabin may still feel warmer compared to ceramic or carbon choices. For best results against heat, ceramic or carbon tints are recommended over traditional dye versions.
How To Choose Between Dyed Or Ceramic Car Tint Films
There are a few factors to consider when deciding between dyed or ceramic tint films. Dyed films tend to be more affordable but they may not last as long when exposed to heat and UV rays. Over time, the dye can fade which affects the tint’s effectiveness. Ceramic films are more expensive initially but can endure much longer since they do not fade as quickly.
Ceramic options need to be stretched carefully without trapping air pockets to maintain their heat rejecting properties. Overall durability and heat resistance are best with ceramic but dyed may be a better value if replacing tint more often. Both get the job done so weighing lifespan versus cost is key.
Ceramic Or Carbon Tints Work Better For Car Windows
While ceramic and carbon tints both work to reject heat, It Take to Tint Car Windows carbon films may have a small advantage. Carbon tints, like ceramic, block infrared and ultraviolet rays from the sun. But they also help insulate the glass better and do not allow as much heat to enter even if infrared rays do get through.
Out of the two, carbon tints typically get rated with a higher heat rejection percentage which means less warmth will enter the car. Both options are very effective but carbon may maintain a cooler interior even in extreme heat.
However, ceramic also has benefits over carbon. It can be somewhat more transparent depending on the tint style chosen. With lighter tint shades, visibility out of the windows may be clearer with ceramic versus carbon. Some drivers also find ceramic abrasions or scratches a bit less noticeable once installed.
The Pros And Cons Of Llumar Vs Sundrop Car Tint
Llumar and Sundrop are two of the top brands for car tinting films. Llumar offers ceramic tints that are highly effective at heat rejection. Their tints are also warranted not to bubble, peel, or discolor for the lifetime of the vehicle.
However, Llumar tends to be one of the more expensive tinting options. Sundrop tints provide really high light reduction while still meeting legal tint percentage limits. Their films also come with good warranties for defects.
One drawback to Llumar is it can be harder for installers to work with versus Sundrop due to its thicker makeup. This can increase application costs. Sundrop, on the other hand, is more likely to scratch or swirl over time compared to the durable Llumar product.
For a high-quality product that lasts, Llumar is a great choice if you don’t mind the higher cost. Sundrop offers excellent value and light-blocking if you replace tint more frequently.
Dark Can You Go With Front Car Window Tint
Tint darkness for front car windows is regulated in most states. The legal limit varies between around 30-70% maximum light transmission depending on location. Anything darker could risk a fine if pulled over. Most experts recommend staying above 50% if possible to be on the safe side and avoid issues. Some states do grant medical exemptions that permit slightly darker tint with a doctor’s note for conditions like photosensitivity.
Even with a medical waiver, going too dark can still be illegal as it needs to allow sufficient visibility. Generally 35% or above is recommended even with an exemption to avoid drawing unwanted attention from police. It’s best to verify your local front window tint laws or risk fines and needing to re-tint if tickets are received. Staying legal keeps drivers protected while still allowing some added privacy and heat reduction up front.
Legal To Tint The Front Windows Of Your Car
The legality of front window tinting varies between different states and their individual laws. In some areas, having any tint whatsoever on the front side windows or windshield is prohibited. Other locations allow a very light tint of around 70%-75% visible light transmission.
And a few states permit a slightly darker 30%-50% VLT tint on the front sides only. No state allows extremely dark 10%-25% tint on the front windows, sides or windshield for safety reasons.
It’s important for drivers to research the specific tint laws in their state or risk fines if pulled over with illegal levels. While a light tint on fronts provides some sun protection, obeying regulations keeps motorists compliant and avoids potential legal trouble down the road.
The safest approach is to keep tint on front windows within the minimum allowed light transmission thresholds according to your location. Clear windshields are also required by every state for visibility purposes.
States Have The Same Laws For Front Car Tint
No, different states have established their own statutes regarding allowable levels of window tinting on passenger vehicles. Some common features among many places include banning all window tint from the windshield and only permitting very light dye or ceramic tints on front side windows. But the maximum darkness, as measured by visible light transmittance percentages, varies widely in different areas.
For example, some states limit the front sides to no darker than 70% VLT, while others set 50% as the ceiling. A handful of locales are even stricter with nothing over 35% permitted on front windows.
Then there are exceptions like medical waivers in certain states that grant leeway for darker tint. The penalties too range from warnings to heavier fines based on your location. So it’s crucial for motorists to familiarize themselves with the distinct car window tint regulations enforced in their state.
Percentage Tint Is The Darkest Allowed On Front Windows
As covered earlier, the highest allowed window tint darkness permitted on front car windows varies significantly between states. Some common legal limits seen are:
- 70% visible light transmission (VLT) – Seen in states like Florida, Utah.
- 50% VLT – A standard limit in places like California, Georgia, Maryland.
- 35% VLT – The ceiling in more stringent areas like Colorado, Massachusetts.
No jurisdiction allows anything darker than 35% VLT on the fronts for safety. Only a handful of states enable lighter ceramic tints down to 20% with a doctor’s note due to medical conditions. Regardless of location, going too dark even by a few points can result in fines if identified by law enforcement doing tint checks. Always verify the specific laws where you drive.
Ticket For Illegal Front Window Car Tint
Yes, having tint that is darker than the legal limit for your state on the front windows of a vehicle can result in a citation. Police officers often use tint meters to accurately test window tint levels during traffic stops. If readings come back below the state’s minimum visible light transmission percentage allowed, drivers typically receive a violation.
Your car may also be required to fail inspection in certain regions if front window percentages do not comply. On top of paying the citation cost, drivers may need to re-tint windows to a legal shade in order to clear offenses. It’s not worth the financial penalty or hassle to have illegally dark front car window tint.
How To Check Your State’s Window Tinting Laws
To ensure your vehicle’s window tint adheres to requirements, the easiest way to verify regulations is by checking online. Your state legislature’s website typically provides the official transportation code detailing all window tint rules. Search phrases like “Hawaii window tint law” or “Arizona tinting statutes” to pull up regulations quickly.
You can also get tint laws via your DMV manual found through their site. Many law enforcement divisions list permitted tint levels on their webpages too. Tint installation shops must follow directives, so asking before applying tint can prevent issues. Finally, some aftermarket window tint manufacturers post summary charts comparing front window limits in every state.
Get Car Windows Tinted Professionally
The average cost of professional window tinting ranges usually between $200 to $350 to do all windows on a full-size car. Smaller vehicles like compacts generally cost less around the $150 mark.
Luxury and specialty tints that offer better heat reduction can drive the price up to $500. Pre-cut tint starts around $100 to $200 whereas custom-cut for non-standard windows runs higher. The cost depends on factors like vehicle size, number of windows, tint type and brand chosen.
Factors Affect The Price Of Professional Car Tint Installation?
| Factor | Effect on Price |
| Tint Film Type | Dyed films are cheaper, ceramic and carbon cost more. |
| Window Size | Larger vehicles have more glass, increasing labor costs. |
| Special Windows | Non-standard shapes like sunroofs cost extra to custom cut. |
| Brand | Top brands like Llumar and 3M provide better warranties but increase price. |
| Vehicle Complexity | Difficult windows due to design factors can take longer to tint. |
| Location | Tint shops in large cities typically have higher overhead and prices. |
| Add-Ons | Extras like cleaning, protective coatings, and hard to reach areas add to the bill. |
| Discounts | Bundle deals, membership perks, or off-peak scheduling may provide offers. |
| Quality | Shops cutting corners on materials or work to lower estimates could risk quality. |
In summary, factors from the vehicle, window specifics, tint options, location, and installer all influence final price quotes for professional window tint installations. Comparing estimates that account for these variables leads to the best value.
Are There Any Hidden Costs When Getting Car Windows Tinted?
Upfront estimates may not include every possible fee. Some potential extras include charges for cleaning inside of windows thoroughly before applying tint. Pricing usually covers standard window glass but advanced solutions requiring specialty film cost extra. Things like convertible tops, panoramic sunroofs or removable panels are sometimes not included in quotes.
Repair work for improper prior self-installs may carry additional labor costs too. Taxes can also unexpectedly tack on to the total. Be sure to clarify precisely what services and surfaces the estimate covers to avoid unbudgeted charges later.
Tint Shop Price Comparison For Full Car Window Tint Job
When looking to get your car’s windows fully tinted, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices between tint shops in your local area. Price can vary depending on the type of tint film used as well as the shop’s labor rates. A full window tint job will cost somewhere between $200-$500 on average depending on the vehicle and features.
| Tint Shop | Price for Full Car Window Tint Job |
| Shop A | $300 |
| Shop B | $230 |
| Shop C | $450 |
| Shop D | $280 |
| Shop E | $175 |
This table shows example price quotes different tint shops may offer for a full window tint job, which includes all side, rear and rear windshield surfaces of the vehicle. Knowing the average range and comparing quotes upfront allows you to identify the best value for your budget. Consider reputation and warranty as well when choosing the right tint installation shop.
Tips For Getting The Best Deal On Car Window Tinting
Doing research allows negotiating the best possible tint job price. Get quotes from three reputable shops to see who offers the most competitive rates. Ask for any membership discounts if joining a VIP tinting program. Schedule appointments for off-peak times when shops tend to offer promotions.
Consider having installation done with window purchases for bundle deals from some brands. Be wary of extremely low estimates that could hint at corners being cut on service quality or materials. Having options enables getting the right price without comprising on quality work or product.
Aftermarket Car Tint Damage The Window Glass Over Time
In most cases properly installed window tint should not damage automobile glass in the long run. However, there are some factors that could potentially lead to issues down the road such as: Extremely dark illegal tints may cause glass to heat up excessively from sunlight and crack.
Poor application techniques that overstretch film during install increase stress on windows. Aging tint subjected to environmental damage over 15-20 years may begin to delaminate taking a small amount of glass with it. But overall properly selected, high quality tints applied correctly generally do not harm car windows when used as intended for many years.
Does Uv Protection Keep Car Window Glass From Fading With Tint
One key benefit of quality aftermarket window tinting is UV blocking which helps prevent fading of factory window tints over time. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are the primary cause of plastic and vinyl fading on both interior and exterior vehicle surfaces.
Window tints made with UV inhibitors absorb these harmful high frequency light waves before they hit and damage automotive glass or trim components. This shields the glass from discoloration and fading for the lifespan of the tint film. So in most cases properly applied window tint can indeed keep factory window tints looking new much longer.
Signs That Car Window Tint Needs To Be Replaced
There are a few tell-tale signs a vehicle’s window tint has reached the end of its useful life and needs replacement: Blistering or peeling back of the tint from the glass is never a good indication. Excessive scratching or marring of the tint surface to the point of compromised light blockage requires updating.
Discoloration where the tint takes on a brown or darker hue instead of the original shade means UV degradation has occurred. Delamination where small air bubbles appear under the film signals bond failure. Finally, if a tint is older than 7-10 years, it’s generally a good idea to replace it before it potentially causes other issues.
Properly Installed Car Window Tint Typically Last
With quality name brand window tint film and expert professional installation, car window tint can typically last 7-12 years before needing to be replaced depending on environmental factors. Ceramic and carbon tints tend to endure slightly longer than dyed varieties.
Signs of fading usually show up between 5-8 years with these types in moderate climates with average sun exposure. Films take damage faster in extreme hot or cold temperatures as well as places with high pollen or industrial fallout. Even so, the average lifespan for properly maintained tint is around 10 years when installed correctly initially.
Top Rated Car Window Tint Brands For Quality And Durability
Some of the most acclaimed window tint brands recognized for ruggedness include
- Llumar window tint – Known for strength and lifelong warranties against defects like bubbling or peeling.
- 3M automotive films – Highly regarded for adherence to glass even after 10+ years and blocking over 99.9% of UV rays.
- SunTek window tint – Provides superb heat rejection through ceramic and carbon technology for cool interiors.
- SolarShield window tint – Durable all-climate performance backed by thickness and multi-layered technology.
- Prestige window tint – Premium tear-resistant dye for luxury vehicles that delivers great shatter protection too.
Top manufacturers ensure products last through rigorous testing so drivers enjoy clear vision and other benefits for many years.
Way To Tint The Outside Of A Car Window Myself
While professional installation is typically recommended, it is possible for enthusiastic do-it-yourselfers to apply exterior window tint themselves. Some specialty carbon or ceramic tint films made to be stretched tight can work if adhered properly. Standard dyed window tints are too fragile for outside use.
Care must be taken not to score the glass or damage seals during application. Weather conditions also need cooperation. Having another set of hands helps with positioning and keeping taut borders. Exterior endeavors demand extra patient precision – but outside window tint can indeed be a DIY project if tackled cautiously.
Kind Of Car Window Tint Film Can Be Used For External Tinting
Only high-grade carbon or ceramic-based window tint materials should ever be considered for exterior car window use. These advanced films are thicker, more pliable and designed to better withstand harsh outdoor elements compared to standard interior dyed varieties.
Leading exterior-approved window tint options include V-Kool and Madico Exterior carbon formulas that stretch tight without distorting. Prestige Supreme Ceramic CX also performs well outside with proper prepping and install. The right film is critical – cheaper alternatives could delaminate or discolor much sooner in direct sunlight on car exteriors.
The Tools Needed For Diy Exterior Car Side Window Tinting
Besides the exterior-rated tint film, here are some basic tools needed to attempt an outdoor side window tint project:
- Squeegee – For smoothing out bubbles and wrinkles
- Spray bottle – With a mix of soap and water for slick application
- Razor blades – For precise trimming of cut edges
- Heat gun – To loosen adhesive for positioning
- Screen protectors – To cover inside glass during install
- microfibers – For cleaning surfaces prior to applying tint
- Trim removal tools – In case moldings need adjustment
- Gloves – To protect fingers from heat and adhesive
Following the guidelines in a tutorial closely ensures proper positioning using these essential DIY window tinting supplies.
How To Apply Exterior Car Side Window Tint Without Bubbles
Carefully cleaning the window with soapy water first is key. Cut the tint film about an inch larger all around than the glass. Spray the window then apply the tint slightly wet, using a squeegee to slowly push out excess moisture from the center outwards. Work gently to avoid air pockets. Heat the top corner with a heat gun then flatten and smooth it with your squeegee.
Repeat across the top then down each vertical side, using heat to position while squeegeeing out bubbles. Trim edges with a fresh razorblade once set. Re-squeegeeing after an hour helps ensure full adhesion. Finished exterior tint requires curing for 72 hours in warm temperatures before use
Frequently Asked Question
What Types Of Tint Can Be Used On Exterior Windows?
Only high-grade ceramic or carbon-based films formulated for outdoor use should be considered for exterior window tinting.
Is Self-Installation Of Outside Tint Recommended?
While possible, exterior window tinting requires more advanced skills than interiors – professional installation is typically advisable.
How Long Will Exterior Tint Last On Car Windows?
Properly selected outdoor tint maintained well can endure 5-7 years, though extreme weather may cause premature fading or bubbling over time.
Can Outside Tint Be Removed If Needed?
With patience, exterior window tint can be removed although some residue staining of the glass may remain depending on film deterioration.
What Precautions Should Be Taken Applying Outside Car Window Tint?
Careful cleaning, proper curing, avoiding air pockets or scratches, and temporarily shielding interior glass are all important when self-installing exterior car window films.
Conclusion
While window tint is most commonly applied to the inside of glass, it is possible to put tint on the outside of car windows as well. Auto window tint shops have tint films designed specifically for exterior application that adhere directly to the glass surface. However, there are some drawbacks to consider with exterior window tinting compared to interior applications.
Exterior window tint may not last as long when exposed to the elements on the outside of the car. Extreme heat, cold, and UV rays can cause exterior tint to degrade more quickly over time. Proper care and maintenance is important to maximize the lifespan of any exterior window tint job.
