Window Tinting Cost | A Complete Guide

Nowadays, you can customize almost every part of your vehicle. Window tints are becoming increasingly popular now, and it’s easy to understand why. Window tinting is the process of covering your vehicle’s windows with a dark laminate sheet.

The practical benefits of window tinting extend beyond their visual appeal. They add more privacy, keep the car cool, and filter harmful UV rays, which protects passengers and the vehicle’s interior from damage. Many different kinds of window tint are available, and because the materials used differ, the price can also vary greatly.

If you’re interested in getting your car windows tinted for any of the above reasons, we’ve provided all the necessary details and costs below.

What is Window Tinting?

The process of adding a tinted transparent film or coating to the inside of a vehicle’s windows is known as window tinting. Window tints are available in a variety of materials and thicknesses. The darker the window tint, the harder it can be to see, especially at night. That’s why the amount of window tinting that can be legally applied varies from state to state.

The percentage of light allowed in, also known as Visible Light Transmission, is part of these window tint laws. Local rules may also specify how many inches of the windshield can be tinted legally. Although tints can be applied at home, a professional application is advised.

How Much Does Window Tinting Cost?

Window tinting can range in price from $100 to $1,000 on average, depending on the car. Tinting is a long-term investment that makes your vehicle’s interior last longer and makes it more comfortable for you to drive. The price of window tint depends on a number of factors, such as the type of tint, the number of windows to be tinted, and the period of the warranty.

Why Should You Tint the Windows of Your Vehicle?

Tinting your car’s windows offers the following benefits:

• UV protection: Window tints can shield you from the sun’s UV rays while driving, blocking up to 99% of them.
• Interior protection: UV radiation can harm your automobile’s interior, fading the dashboard and seats over time. Applying window tint to a vehicle can increase the interior’s durability.
• Security: In the event of an accident, the tint film will increase your safety because it helps keep broken glass fragments together.
• Enhanced privacy: Although window tints let you view outside, they make it harder for others to see inside your vehicle. The tints provide you with more privacy and security.
• Improved comfort: They also aid in keeping your car’s interior cooler, particularly in the summer. The tint reduces solar glare, improving driving visibility and comfort.
• Increased gas mileage: During the summer, running your air conditioner full force uses more gas in your car. Window tints help your car’s interior stay cooler, which means you’ll use less of your air conditioner and get more miles out of it.
• Enhances the exterior: Besides providing all the practical functions, window tints make the vehicle look more stylish and aggressive.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Window Tinting

These factors can affect the price of your window tint; we’ll go over them all below and explain why:

• Type of vehicle: Tinting a car with fewer windows is less expensive. Similarly, simpler windows will cost less to install because they need less time and effort.
• Unique vehicles: Some cars have special features that drive up the cost. For example, installing the massive glass roof on the Tesla Model 3 requires a lot of labor and supplies. Older vehicles can be more difficult to tint due to the lack of tint plotter templates and the need to trim the tint to size manually. However, most stores won’t charge more.
• Cost of tint removal: The installation takes longer and costs more money if the technician has to remove adhesive, muck, or previous tint. Shops normally remove glue or muck for free if it is minimal.
• Material for the tint: The cost of the window tint film is determined by the kind of material used. The cost of dyed window tints is lower than carbon or ceramic.
• Expertise of the installer: Tinting windows is an art form. While a professional installation may charge extra, they will know exactly how to handle and protect the tint.
• Overhead: Quality tinting shops require top-of-the-line equipment. They will also have a regulated atmosphere to ensure the final product is as clean as possible.
• Tint brand: You get what you pay for. The cost of window tint will vary depending on the brand. Installing high-quality window films requires certification for shops. The manufacturer requires this certification to guarantee that their tint continually performs better than the competitors.

Window Tinting Cost of Windows Different Vehicles

Installers primarily base their charges on the number of windows in your car. A coupe, for instance, has two larger back windows and two smaller front windows. A sedan features several smaller quarter panels and two larger rear windows in the front. SUVs and station wagons are more sophisticated and have more windows. The cost of tinting each of these vehicles will vary.

The following is an overview of window tinting prices for different types of vehicles:

Coupe Window Tinting Costs

The following is an estimate of what window tinting prices for coupes typically cost:

Sedan Window Tinting Costs

The following are the starting prices for tinting sedan windows:

Truck Window Tinting Costs

The number of windows on a truck is the main factor that determines the pricing. Crew cabs use more material than regular cab trucks and take longer to complete.

The price ranges for vehicle tints are listed below –

SUV or Van Tinting Costs

For SUVs and vans, the number of windows is the primary component determining the price of tinting. If your vehicle is a cargo van, transport van, or conversion van, you may have to pay more for installation.

Tesla Window Tinting Costs

Tinting the windows of your Tesla will enhance its already sleek appearance. The year, make, model, and type of tinting you choose will all significantly impact your Tesla’s window tinting cost.

• Tinting a Model 3: The Tesla Model 3’s large rear window resembles a panoramic roof. The installer must have prior expertise dealing with this type of roof in order to select the correct size tint for a flawless finish.
• Tinting a Model X: The Tesla Model X’s windshield is so large that it’s more appropriate to refer to it as a panoramic roof than a windshield. In addition, an installer must have a tint roll that is precisely sized for this roof.
• Tinting a Model Y: The sunroof on the Tesla Model Y features a headlining. Installers need to remove the headliner to tint the complete roof safely. The sunroof has sharp curves, so the tint needs to have relief cuts made in it to help it fit the glass’s shape. The majority of shops won’t even take on this kind of work.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tint Installer

Putting in window tint is a long-term investment. Your tint’s durability will solely depend on the quality of the installer. Do your homework and select a reliable installer who can ensure a high-quality finish if you want the best results.

The following tips will help you in selecting the best installer:

Expertise and Reputation of Installers

Although a less competent installation may offer a lower price, they run the risk of damaging your tint, which will increase the cost of replacing it. Installers need months to become experts at the skill of tinting. An installer gets a certificate from a tinting firm after completing training.

Since not all tints are created equal, installers must also hold certificates specific to each type of tint. Make sure the installer you’re considering has the proper certifications to install the tint you’ve chosen. Choose a tint installer that trains their workers and stays current on tint technology.

Warranty of Tint

Professional installers will provide a warranty covering certain damages and specifying how long the tint will stay. Two warranties are usually offered: one covers the product, and the other covers the craftsmanship. Select a provider who offers a long-lasting tint warranty. You should also find out if the warranty can be transferred to the new owner if you plan on selling your car while the tint is still under warranty.

Customer Reviews

Look up customer reviews on the installer’s website and on review sites to learn more about this company. Customers’ satisfaction with the installer and product is the best indicator of their workmanship, communication, and customer service.

Type of Film

The quality of the installer’s tint is critical. The store should be able to give you product specifications and walk you through the installation procedure. Request to view product samples and before-and-after installation photos. The tint installer should advise you on automobile tint and state window tinting laws.

Conclusion

You’ve undoubtedly heard others remark that window tinting is not recommended, so what’s the deal? As long as you follow the laws of the state, it’s awesome. You’re in the clear whether you’re tinting for a sleek appearance or to protect the interior of your vehicle.

Let me tell you something, though: while tinted windows may look great on coupes, what about drivers of sedans and SUVs? Not in that way. Additionally, that tint could not bring in a lot of money when it comes time to sell your cars.

Thus, if you’re considering it, consider spending some money on high-quality tinting equipment. It’s an investment in both the health of your car and your personal privacy.