Tinted Windows...

[byubrian]

Just bought a '97 Accord and the windows have no tint whatsoever - ugh!

I wanted to get all side and back windows tinted and am hoping someone out there could provide some advice on the following:

- I have seen so many shoddy aftermarket tint jobs (peeling, bubbles, et.) that I am a bit hestitant - any advice on "type" of tint quality I should be looking for? is there a certain type of auto detailing shop i should be looking for to apply the tint?

- what is the cost range i should expect?

- does anyone know the exact rules regarding the amount of tint that i can apply to the fornt, side windows?

much thanks

[dnguy47]

I don't know too much about tint, however, i do know that some states there are restrictions on the darkness of tint unless otherwise noted. Tinting cars isn't bad, it's just the back window that's a pain in the butt. Usually you can buy tint a roll of 25feet for about 30 dollars online. Don't go out to walmart, autozone, pep boys and buy the cheap tint. Try looking for professional grade tint. tinting isn't easy, you must have a steady hand in order to get the cuts right. Taking out the windows may make it easier however more complicated.

[Huffa]

Years ago my wife had her 88 CRX SI done be a pro. Excellent job but no matter how good the tint, it will turn some what purple down the road. All depends how much the car is garaged. Hers wasn't for 1/2 it's life. I'd say it lasted a good 7 years then the purple haze started to kick in. After 9 or so I took it all off....too dang purple.

Best way to find a good place is when you see a car in your area that has it done and you like the work, either ask or slap a simple note on their car stating to please call you. Be extreme in telling how you like it and I'll bet they will call! This method works for me for alot of things.

Back in 88 it was I think about $250. We had a 6-8" piece run along the length of the front also that was cut with a very slight arc in it to go along with the flow of the window.

[mr.gremlin]

There are 2 ways to do tint from what I've seen. permenant and removeable. I would use the removeable for many reasons. 1. If you mess up, just pull it off and start again. 2. It doesn' purple. 3. No problems with bubbles, they can be squeegied out because this stuff is rubbery and better conforms to curves.4. can be put on with just plain soap, water, razor, and squeegie.

You can buy this stuff at walmart. Thats the only place I;ve found it. They call it static cling tint, and it may sound cheezy, but with a good soapy application, and all bubbles squeezed out, it looks just as professional as factory tint.

You will NOT, however be able to use this on windows that roll down. I've use this on the back windows of my cars that are fixed and it's stayed for years. The last time I bought it at walmart, I bought the RV sized roll - about 4ft x 6ft. If you want to tint windows that roll down, I think the regular pain in the ass tint is how you will have to go. I would have this done professionally, because it really, really sucks.
Hope that helps.

[avpart3]

Every state has difference tinting laws as far as darkness goes.

Do what Huffa said as far as finding a place in your area that does good work. When you go, make sure you get a lifetime warranty for you tint job. That way if anything messes up with your tints, you can take it back and get it done over for free. So you aint' gotta worry bout it bubbling and what not. I paid about 150 for my job, I got 5 windows done. YOu could even find it cheaper in some areas.