US Laws -Window Tinting

[The Black Pearl]

I am thinking about tinting my TB's front driver side and passenger side windows. I live in Canada, but I do travel to the US and I would like to know what percentage is legal in the US.

[Robert1010]

In Pennsylvania the safety inspect regulations do not permit tinting either front side window or anything below the AS1 line on windshield.

If you get pulled over by a cop, not being able to see you can make it a tense situation. ( can't blame them either)

Rob

[dach95]

Laws changes all the time, so I suggest you research before installing tint on your window.

http://www.gilafilms.com/auto/car_tint_laws.html

[Porch]

Well, I live in Pennsylvania and my front driver and passenger windows are tinted with 35%. I asked a local cop here about it before I did it and he said the only thing they complain about is if they can't see in the vehicle at all. He also advised me that state police are more strict about it and use a light meter to determine wether or not they can ticket you. The main thing to remember though is they can't pull you over just for having tinted windows. They can only tack on an additional fine if your pulled over for some other moving violation. Hope this helps.

[mrcrabbiepattie]

where every your vehicle is registered is where you have to abide by the laws. Since you live in canada, check with your local mountie's. USA can't no anything if your are visiting with canada plates.

also you can get precut window tint of ebay, thats what i need for my trialblazer and silverado. Made life much easier.

[BlulytesTB]

I have always had 20% (matches rear factory tinting) on all my trucks, and I drive with my sun roof shade closed... makes it darker... can't see me! I have NEVER gotten a ticket for my tinting.

Added benefit... Keeps your interior from fading, keeps from people looking into your truck, also if your window were to shatter, the film actually holds the glass together!

However... If you ever get pulled over:
1. Put all your windows down. This will give an officer more comfort in knowing that you are not hiding anything, ie. gun.
2. Interior Lights on. Giving an officer the most visibility into your vehicle will put them at ease and the gesture is greatly rewarded!
3. Car in Park, Foot off brake. Put the car into park slowly, so that your reverse lights flash when passing reverse. This lets them know you are not going to run. Take your foot off brake, for the same reason.
4. LEAVE YOUR SEATBELT ON! A common misconception. Trying to get your wallet before the officer gets up to your car to get your license. Wait until the officer approaches the vehicle and let them tell you to get your license. Make sure they see that your belt is on. If your registration is in your glove box, tell them that is where it is, and that is what you are going for. Do it slowly.

Not so much information on tinting, however what to do when pulled over with tinting!
By the way, I live in Pennsylvania too!

[The Black Pearl]

[quote=mrcrabbiepattie]where every your vehicle is registered is where you have to abide by the laws. Since you live in canada, check with your local mountie's. USA can't no anything if your are visiting with canada plates.

Where I live its not enforced, but I was told to watch it if I go to the States. All I need is one I told you so and this would ruin my holiday.

[JBlazin05]

what do most front driver and passenger side window tinting go for.. i would guess not much more than $150... ?

[BlulytesTB]

Thats about it... I have seen everywhere from about $80-$150 also depends on the quality of the tint out there.
They have some really nice stuff that is quality guaranteed, also some havine ultra low reflective quality.
Just check the colors before you buy. I know that chevrolet has changed the colors of their factory tints over the past couple of years from a brown tint to a grey tint. Especially if you want it to match!
If you have never had tinted (filmed) windows before, they produce a reflection inside the vehicle.

[The Black Pearl]

Originally Posted by BlulytesTB

... they produce a reflection inside the vehicle.

Is the reflection a bother? I was thinking of having a tint done on the front, but not as deep of a tint as the other windows. Just enough to block out more sun light and stop the boys from looking at my daughter.....

[BlulytesTB]

Nah... not a bother... just takes alittle getting used to.

Here is 20%

[ScarabEpic22]

that 20% looks good... I might have to tint the fronts on my 02. Also, what is a good place online to buy tints from, and who did you use to buy yours? Erik

[BlulytesTB]

I went through a place here outside Philadelphia. They do tinting, detailing... all that fun stuff. My recommendation would always be to bring it to a shop, unless you have tinted yourself before. I have tried it and it is alittle hard to do. I am a perfectionist and I did not want "bubbles" (water marks under the tint). Most shops will guarantee their work too, so if it gets damaged or peels, they will replace.

The toughest part I have found with tint is backing up at night. If you are in a poorly lit area and using your side mirrors... I found it helpful to do the obvious... put the window down!

The other fun part is that people can't see you, so its really easy to stare and make fun of people! However... if you get into another car... just remember you can't do that! They will see you! Happens all the time to my wife!

As for grading...
20% will roughly match the factory tinting (pretty dark, can barely make out people in car)
35% will be lighter... more of a fashion tint (you can see shadows, see through car etc, but still dark enough)
5% Limo.... way too dark. police no like

[The Black Pearl]

Man thats it. I'm getting it tinted now 20 or 30? This is the week end thought. I'm sure if I do this it will cool the car down and I won't have to use the air as much which in turn saves gas. Its like a pair of shoes on sale at the mall.

[BlulytesTB]

That is a point I did forget! It does keep your car cooler... a definate plus!
Personally... I like the 20%. The match just does it for me.