I am thinking about adding window tint to my Element and would like some help in deciding which brand of tint is best. I would just like to match the factory tint on the E. The three brands that are available in my area are Formulaone, Vista, and LLumar. They all cary Warranties and I have never added tint to any vehicles before. Any suggestions? Any feeling good, bad, indifferent? The price is as much as $ 25.00 difference.

Thanks in advance :D

i just went to the guy i go to and asked him to match it. he charged me $40 for both windows. i may do the sunroof, but im going to wait for the summer first.
http://www.flyinghellfish.net/ceeya/elementary1.jpg

you're worrying about the wrong thing. BRAND is totally meaningless to YOU the customer .. you wouldn't know what we the tinters gave you one way or the other ... just whastever we told you.. not to be mean of course.. but BRAND is a nonissue to you.

you you need to look for are
1. Lifetime warranty.
2. Metallized film, not dyed,
3. filed edges, so there will be no top edge gap
4. Is a scratch warranty available
5. Is film tucked at least 2" on bottom edge of an Escape (door panels must be removed.. easy if a pro does it)

~ call the Lexus, Jaguar, Mercedes dealer CSR's .. see where they send their new cars for work.. then call those shops and ask them the questions

(note I didnt say Honda, Toyota, Kia dealer... they ALWAYS go to the CHEAPEST not always the best tinter... they are more concerned w/ price and not quality)

Is that how you get a perfectly smooth line around the perimeter of the glass? I have always tinted my own windows and never knew how to get the edge to terminate perfectly with the glass's edge. I do run an extra inch into the door and make sure it goes into the frame track, but the exposed edges have always been a mystery to me. I have been using something as a straight edge and trimming it with a diamond cut x-acto blade. I adjust the angle of the straight edge accordingly as I move it along the glass, but of course this doesn't perfectly match the curvature of the window. I just wish I had a clean garage to work in. I am forced to tint outside and there is always some piece of lint or dust that gets on the glass! I am usually the only one who sees it though.

Alien... you may want to peruse another site and ask tint questions there (being an 'amateur' tinter) ... you'll find everyone there is friendly and will answer your questions. There are ALOT of things about tinting most don't know ~ like filing... DO NOT attempt that trick until you know the exact method (you will destroy the glass).

(there are other tint sites, but I can gaurantee you'll get hazed and called an idiot for asking the simplest of questions... totally uncalled for)

go to
http://www.findatinter.com/forum


~~I use the same name there as well

Has anyone had the sunroof tinted? My tinter says that untempered glass can't be tinted successfully, because the film of tint puts too much tension on the glass. What alternatives are there to the fugly sunscreen? (I've been using a suction cup shade that's about 12"x14" and it seems to do the job, but only in a Mickey Mouse way.)

Get another tinter... this one doesn't know what he is talking about.

The skylight glass has to be tempered or heat-treated in some way to be used in a motor vehicle. Tempered glass is used in the automotive industry because the breakage pattern is predictable - many small pieces that are mostly harmless. Untempered glass breaks in an unpredictable way - small and large pieces with sharp, cutting edges or points.

Either way, exactly what kind of stress can an adhesive film put on the glass anyway?

Most likely the sunroof glass is tempered (look in the corner of the glass, it will say something like "temperlite" etc)

The tinter IS RIGHT that untempered glass is prone to breakage from window tinting ~ but it's not a gaurantee... that is why skilled installers know what films to put on what types of glass...

That is one of the big reasons you are not supposed to tint a windsheild ~ other than reduced visibility. A windsheild is not tempered (it's laminated annealed glass) and therefore is susceptible to heat fracture.

My guess is you either found 1. A hack window tinter who doesn't have a damn clue what he's talking about (a good 80-90% of all window tinters are drug riddled HACKS .. and that's from the mouth of a window tinter!) or 2. You found a tinter who simply doesn't like to tint sunroofs and fed you a line to get rid of you. Yeah... shocking I know.. lol.. all tinters have something they hate tinting (me, I charge $45 just to do a w/sheild visor strip, I HATE them!... I hope it scares them from doing that part... if not, at least I got paid to do something I despise doing)


Anyway... I've never seen a sunroof that wasn't made from tempered glass ~ there shold be no reason it couldn't be tinted

It IS tempered.

I have my sunroof tinted in 35%, and your right windowtint your #1 choice is mostly right. That fits most of the tinters I know. I also used to tint. :-)

WindowTint,

What do you think of a shield visor strip on the Element ??

??? Remember, you don't have to install it :D

Simon

if you are having a problem with glare in the windsheild, a visor strip could be of great assistance

If you go shopping for one, make sure the tinter installs a CONTOURED VISOR... not the standard "eyebrow" style. The difference is that a countoured visor will have the exact same width all the way across and follow the shape of the windsheild... a standard visor (is ugly and amateurish looking) is the style that is wide on the side edges and more narrow in the middle near the rearview mirror.

It should only take the tinter about 5 minutes or so to install once he starts (a good tinter will probably be slammed with work... "time to completion" and actual total work time are completely different)

BTW... I only hate doing them because they are a total no-skill processs (IMHO) and I just feel like I'm doing something that I should be tossing off on a floor sweeper while I do something harder like a back glass... ~ but they don't look bad! ~ I have one on both of my vehicles... :)

Thanks WindowTint. You are a great resource !

I have a question for WindowTint. I'm going to have my sun roof glass tinted, mainly to keep my dogs from getting sunlight while they are riding back there, plus there are times I leave them in the car with reflective silver shade tarps draped over the windows.

How dark should I get the tint? Do they make such a thing as a reflective silver tint? My E is silver so it could blend in with the color.

Anything else I should ask about?

Thanks

Ok... you got a few different questions...

First, on the tarp thing... that only really will work if you're leaving htem in there for very short time periods..... A parked vehicle will get hot in the sun no matter what you do to it... picture a cargo van.. no windows but on the 2 doors... leave it in the sun for 30 minutes and then open the back loading door... inferno.. there are a lot of other factors in heat gain with vehicles thatn just the glass... BUT.. the tarps will SLOW the heat gain (but not STOP)

Question 2: How dark you get tint is generally the consumers call, you go as dark as you feel you will be comfortable trying to look through (and will still be legal as well). If you'r wondering how dark to go on a sunroof... that's the wrong approach (but o.k. ~ only tinter's realize it :) )

~~~window films do not block more or less heat according to their darkness. Smoked 5% (limo) tint will not block any more heat than a light 35% film... what you need to look for if heat is your issue is actual construction of the film and not darkness. The best heat rejecting film are those with a heavy metalized composition ~ like films with a silvery/reflective appearance (not the black/smoke colored films)

#3 ~ Silver reflective film.. the film I know you are asking about does exist, it's called R20 and R35 (R20 is darker). R-series films are architectural films and are not designed to be applied to cars ~ and are also illegal for that use in all 50 states. If your state allows any reflective type of film at all ~ it would be a maximum of 20% visible light relectance. (some states allow no reflectance)

The R20 film is the stuff that looks like a bathroom mirror.. like chrome plated glass. It takes an VERY VERY long time to dry and does not stick very well to auto glass due to that it's adhesive is of a different type than that used in auto films. It also scratches easily since it does not have the good scratch resistant coating that automotive films have (house film don't need it, no one rolls home windows up and down 10 times a day into a gritty sandy window track!)

~~ but yes, you do see the film around on occasion ~ some people insist on it and some tinter's risk the HUGE fine and install it.


If you are interested in heat reduction I would suggest going with a SEMI-reflective film (such as Johnson ES series, Llumar Platinum Plus or Madico Kool Chrome). Those films will adhere well to the glass, last a very long time and reject a good amount of heat... but again... remember they only SLOW the heat gain, not stop it (if parked in the sun).

#4 ~~One thing about E's that you should ask a prospective tinter... the E door panels NEED to be popped off!!!! The window's dust seal has TWO dust seals to it (you see one), but the film if not tucked past the SECOND seal will eventually peel (not good). So, the rememdy is to pull the panel off ~ no big deal, it's just a few screws here and there.

also... ask the tinter if he's ever taken an E door apart before. Important... if it's the tinters first time at it, he'll break the the first door panel he does (on an E) ~ even I did it!! On the latch edge of the door, you see in the bottom corner of the window there is a triangular peice of plastic trim ~ that thing takes a certain move/gentle finesse to pop off... easy after the 1st time! It's just a weird part.... remind him that it breaks easy if not attentive and you should be ok (and if he breaks it... it's an easy fix with some super glue :shock: )

hope that helped

Thanks Window Tint that was helpful. At this point I'm only going to do the sun roof and I'll ask about that SEMI-reflective film you mentioned.

I constantly monitor the temp in the car when I keep dogs there and park in the shade whenever possible.

I know this is a bit much for most... but here's something I did for a hardcore dog afficianado a few years back... lol

Actually have done this install twice now... once on a Police SUV K9 unit and on another, this guy had an SUV that he carried around his two dogs with...

Pretty straight forward... I recall it cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $300/350...

(note* Automatic tranny needed for install)

Installed a temp sensor/gauge (standard version... used widely in car stereo and engines), then wired it into a relay which went to the security system and the remote start system

Basically, what would happen when the system was activated is, when the inside temperature reached a predetermined level, the windows would all roll down a few inches, the engine would start and run the A/C system. After about 45 seconds the windows would roll back up (rolling them down helped to vent hot air faster), and once the temperature dropped back below a pre-set level the motor would turn off.

If it was an extremely hot day, the trucks would/will run almost constantly of course maintaining the temperature. This system also works in reverse ~ heating the car in very cold conditions (it's basically just like your home automatic heat-a/c system)

A bit much for most I know ~ but it's a neat idea (I didn't think of it... was just the one asked to make it happen)

Totally automatic and extremely safe for the animals

(P.S. on autostart systems, the car can't be stolen... while the car is running on autostart, if someone puts the vehicle in gear and they don't have the correct key in the ignition, the motor will kill, the doors will lock and the vehicles alarm system will start to sound)

Does anyone know the % of the factory tint :?: I would like to match the front windows to the rest of the windows. If it is 35%, how would I make all of the windows 20% :?: If I tint the front windows 20% and the rear windows are 35%, it would look bad. If I tint the front windows 20% and put more tint on the back windows, would the back look darker :?:

I tinted my front windows, and I wanted the same thing I used 20% and maches perfect. If you have ever tinted windows before it is a sinch on the E because of the flat glass. 8)

Can a dealer please tell me the % of the factory window tint :?: Is it 35% or 20% :?:

Thank You

I thnk someone on another post said 20%

I hope this works...here it goes...

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=1656 :D :lol:

I have been looking in to doing the tinting myself, but I dont think i would have the paitence for it, or the time....

Does anyone know maybe roughtly what it would cost to just get the front 2 window's tinted to match the rear?

Llumar is the best. All the other brands are crap, don't let "windowtint" tell you different.

Andrew

I just got my front windows done for $45. I had it done with 28% tint. The back windows are 20% which is illegal for the front windows in Florida. The look is pretty good, the 28% with the 20%. I was thinking about a strip across the windshield, but decided against it with all the windshield problems I've been hearing about.

Ok, I think I have confused myself so I am posting here so hopefully some "nice guy/gal" help me out.

I recently had my front windows tinted in my new E. I asked the dude that did the work to match up as closely as possible to the back. He told me most folks get the "15" to match.

My question is this... does the 15 mean 15% of light being blocked? If that is correct, then that would mean that the tint has a light transmission of 85%? Am I correct in saying this?

Just want to make sure I am not screwing myself up on this one... In a small debate with a friend on this one....

Thanks,
Smyth

Tint numbers are the amount of light allowed to pass through. So 15% is much much darker than 85%. Isn't all tint illegal in PA? :wink:

Here is why I asked the question.... the guy had a piece of auto glass, with the four different tints he generally offers.

5 (almost clear)
15 (a little darker)
30 (dark)
"limo" (can't see anything through it)

The higher the number the darker the tint it was on the glass.

I said 15 because of the match up. So if I got 15 and "psm0110" says it means 15% of the light allowed to pass through then why did the "30" and "limo" look so much darker.

This is the part I am stuck on... I am thinking that the 15 means the percent of light blocked. But of course, I am asking to make sure!

Smyth

Tint numbers are the amount of light allowed to pass through. So 15% is much much darker than 85%. Isn't all tint illegal in PA? :wink:

Here in Pennsyltucky it is a wonder that some of us even have cars... not too far from my home there are still people that drive horse and buggy (Amish). :P

I tinted my front windows. I called honda to see what the % the rear windows are and they said all of their cars (cr-v, pilot & odyssey) were 17%. I tinted the front windows 20% and it matches perfect! 20% means that it allows that % of light to pass thru. I don't know what shop you went to but that is something he made up. Most tint shops have 35% which is usually legal on the side windows, 20% which is usually legal on the rear window and 5% which is used on limos and you can't see a thing thru.

I do tinting at my shop this is how it works

2 1/2% the darkest tint that anyone makes
5 % what most people know as limo tint
15% most tint makes dont make this % of film
20% is what is on most cars and trucks that have factory "tint", not really tint in most cases just colored glass
30%-35% (depending on the film maker) is what is legal in most states


the percentage in is the amount of visable light that the tint allows through!


this link explains a little more and is also up to date on all the tint laws in all fifty stateshttp://www.pcisys.net/~bpc/auto_law/tint/

[quote:ddfa118cbe="medic4lee"]I do tinting at my shop this is how it works

2 1/2% the darkest tint that anyone makes
5 % what most people know as limo tint
15% most tint makes dont make this % of film
20% is what is on most cars and trucks that have factory "tint", not really tint in most cases just colored glass
30%-35% (depending on the film maker) is what is legal in most states
the percentage in is the amount of visable light that the tint allows through!
[/quote:ddfa118cbe]

Then why did the 30 tint appear darker on the his "example" auto glass then the 15 that he put on? Because the way you are explaining it, 30 should be lighter then 15, right?

ok... just thought of another way to illustrate this...

This was his 5% -> 5% TINT
This was his 15% -> 15% TINT
This was his 30% -> 30% TINT
This was his 'Limo' -> LIMO TINT

If 30 is legal in most states, then why was it so dark on his example? Understand what I am saying mediclee? Could he maybe have reversed the numbers and meant % being blocked? Maybe making it easier for customers?

Sorry if I am sounding like a bonehead, because I know I am but just trying to understand a simple thing... like I said in the beginning, I have confused myself.

Thanks,
Smyth

Smyth you have it backwards . Medic has it .

so lets get this straight... i'm still lost. lets go with what we say in Cali(where by the way, i think everything is illegal) i only hear the terms light,medium,dark,limo,and double limo. using these terms i should go with dark? correct?

dano giong by the order you have them listed I would guess that Dark is what would most likely match your rear windows,,,,What I would do if I were you is just ask your tinter to see thier sample board and maybe hold it up next to your E. by the way here is my E with 5% (limo) all the way aroundhttp://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=2253
or herehttp://ashoppingspot.com/images/images.htm

SMYTH

the order of darknesses for the window tint are backwards. The lower the number, the darker the film (as medic was stating). 5% is "Limo". It allows 5% of light to transmit through the film.

(and actually, 0% is the darkest tint available, I have it - it's not meant for cars).

As far as PA tint laws go, they are in serious debate. Anyone who is willing to can fight the PA law in court and win. The law's wording is extremely vague and pocked full of loopholes and judgement calls (which makes a law pretty much invalid). - No, I'm not in PA., I'm in AL.

Anytime you are trying to get "close" to factory tint, it is usually best to use a 20% - 15% is a hair darker than factory but it's "ok" - I think 20 is about as dark as anyone should ever safely go with on front doors.

Apparently "Ghost" is an illiterate fool. I read back through the posts and no where does it say that Llumar is NOT the best, nor does it say any OTHER BRAND is "the best". Moron.

And BTW, "Ghost"? No, Llumar, is NOT the "BEST!". There is no one BEST film - only a fool of a window tinter would claim that. That's like saying Chevy is the best, or Honda is the BEST. They aren't... Just like no one car line is the best, neither is any one line of film THE BEST.

ALSO... if you knew anything about film you would have also know that all 3 of the films mentioned in the very first post are made by the SAME MANUFACTURER and sold under different names. Almost all films are made by one company (CPF) and then reformulated and tweaked by outside sources to meet their own criteria.

So, since you bring it up.... NO, Llumar is not the BEST. Nor is ANY other brand of film the BEST. "The BEST" depends entirely upon a given set of circumstances. One film brand may be 'perfect' in one instance and in another, the worst possible choice.

FOR ALL YOU NON-TINTERS out there... *TIP* ... if you go to a tint shop and the tinter tells you "OH YEAH! BRAND X IS THE BEST!!" ... Beware. Know why he says that? BECUASE THAT IS THE ONLY LINE OF FILM HE CARRIES!!! There is no way he'll say Brand Y is a great film when Brand X is all he sells.

Why do 90% of tinters carry one brand over another? they are getting a good price. That's the reason. Tinters change film brands like they change underwear, brand loyalty is very fickle and whatever they are carrying at the moment is "THE BEST!" -

If you go back in the thread, you will see I listed a handful of things to look for in getting tint - NO WHERE do I mention shopping on brand. It is irrelevant (as I stated months ago) to the consumer. Shop on quality and reputation, THEN price, THEN brand if that's still important to you.

If BRAND is of concern to you, another tip is to find a shop that carries a full line of 3 or 4 different brands. Reason being is that is probably going to be a tinter that has learned that there is no BEST brand of film and has compensated for that shortcoming by carrying many different lines, that way there will a suitable film available for any given situation.

Only a fool would claim one brand of ANYTHING (much less window tint!!) is the BEST. :lol: :roll:

(and actually, 0% is the darkest tint available, I have it - it's not meant for cars).

What is that? tar? :o

Tint laws vary ALOT by state. In KY you can have 35% in the Front 15% in the Rear. In Ohio, 50% all around, Indiana I think you can use tar... etc. Make sure to check your DMV, and also ask about the allowed variance (you can be so much % off the mark). Any reputable tinter should be straightforward about legalty; however, there are so many fly by nighters that you'll want to make sure. In all likelihood, you won't get pulled over for a tinting violation, but they'll tack it on to another ticket. I say that for normal tint, if you have totally reflective windows, be prepare to see some flashing lights - at least around here.

windowtint: you're advice in the other tint thread is priceless! I'll be sure to print out what you said about the door when we take our E in this week.

Thanks to all who have replied and helped me out... DAMN I hate being wrong! :evil: :)

Anyways... I love my E... with the windows tinted, my new wind deflector, new keyless entry and of course... just the whole dog on vehicle... I don't think I have loved or enjoy any other car as much as this... except for when I get my dream car, a Vet! :-)

My friends say I am anal now about keeping my E clean and that is less then half the price of a vet... wait till I get that!!! :) (LAUGHING)

Have a good one folks and thanks again!

Brilliant :roll::roll::roll:

I feel as though I can make my generalization due to the fact that my friends have used the 'other' brands before, most came with problems. I, however, have llumar, paid a good amount, and got one hell of a quality product.

Thanks again for your insight, windowtint. You are the hierarchy of all that is based upon the tinting of windows. And i'm sure you could go on for a month ranting. :roll::roll::roll:

Andrew

a little of the topic, but, does anyone know of a good tinter between san jose and san francisco? i have never had windows tinted, but would like to get the passenger and driver windows tinted as well as the sun roof.

It's not exactly in the area you are looking for, but I know one in Woodland (which is THAT far away).

He is VERY GOOD takes his work/reputation very seriously. He's an authorized 3M dealer.

If you would like to contact him, call him at 530-668-8468. The company's name is Tintwerks. (Tell him that Jason "Windowtint" sent you - he knows the name)

(and Ghost? At least I can rationalize my arguements... you on the other hand automatically state ALL films other than Llumar are crap becuase your friends had bad installers and you've had a decent experience with it - which 80-90% of all tinters are bad installer. That has nothing at all to do with BRANDS - I've tried to push the idea a million times that you never ever buy on brand.... you buy on ability.)

:?: You know ho you see civic's and the like with colored tints like silver or my fav that transparent blue? Is it possible to have the already black window's on the back of my E to be re - done with a tint like that? Im sorry if this would be considered a dumb question :oops: but i Know nothing about tint's or anything else for that matter so thanks for any help you can offer.

GMdOd

I certainly am not a professional tinter, but I don't believe that would be possible. The back windows of the Element have the color in the glass rather than "on" it like tint. I'm fairly certain you need to start with clear glass to be able to tint it a color, unless there was a way to tint from outside the car. And I don't really see that as a possibility.

I'm goin' to get tinted on Monday. The place did my Passat a couple years ago, and they did a great job. I have one question: All the glass is tempered, aside the windshield, and therefore tint-able. Has anyone tinted the windows that are already dark? I'm going to get the sunroof done with 5%, but have been wondering if I oughtta tint the whole thing just to block some UV. I'm a real pale boy, with a pale wife, and soon to be pale kids.

I got my front side windows tinted yesterday afternoon.
Almost as dark as the back. I don't expect any problem with the law down here in Florida, It's a funny looking car thingy and they really seem to be more interested in the sporty lower to the ground types of cars. The guy who did it didn't say he used the best film, he said his product was comparable to most on the market.
He used some type of plastic cadr to push the film past the two seals on the window and sine he does the work for the local Volvo dealer( Volvos have a similar seal on the window) I think it'll be fine...Looks GREAT :!: :D :D $25.00 for both side, but I got a special from the Volvo dealer since they own a Honda Dealership also.

wow, $25 for 2 doors? - that is actually at or below cost (depending on what film is usesd).. very good deal - congratulations (I'm kinda an ass.. lol.. I will lose the job rather than do it that close to cost.)


Anyhow - regarding tinting the rears of an E. You cannot change the outside appearance of the glass due to the factory colored glass. (as someone already said). If you put a colored film on it - you would see a dark color (blue, red etc...) on the inside but just darker black from the outside. You would have to get all new clear glass and then go from there.

AS far as tinting over colored glass. Yes you can do that, it is reccomended actually... factory colored glass does not block any more heat than clear glass, it doesn't block U.V. light, it offers no glass breakage protection - window FILM does all those things. If the back is already dark enough, you can have a very light or CLEAR film applied to it.

The ability of film to filter heat, UV, etc etc does not depend on it's darkness. Clear does a just as good job as limo tint.

OH.. and BTW, GMDOD? - there are no "dumb questions" about window tint when you're not the window tinter. Only a window tinter could ask something stupid about tint... (and yes, they do... all the time... :roll: ). Customers don't have to know all there is about tint - ya'll got bigger things to worry about than tint...

MY wife knew I wanted to tint the windows on the E. well while I was sleeping (I work mid shift) she went and not only tinted the front windows but the rear too you cant see in the back for squat now :D she is such a sweetie she didnt say anything she just followed me out to the car when I left for work. Thanks honey
:D

Now, that's love! :wink:

:D Kudos to all who have been enlightened by thinking inside the box.

Synapsis (9/15): I saw. I liked. Monday. I tried. I-byed on Tuesday - of course, with my wife's blessing and credit help.
I'm a 30-some father, with a beautiful, intelligent wife, we have 2 boys 10/6, and a dog. I chose the type, she the color. Ying yang or what?
GOD! I love that woman.

Does love at first site really exist? My E is proof enough for me.

Anyway... I digress. Windows tinting. Does anybody know the film type that has the same 'color'/'look' as the factory tint?

I've seen some that either have a blue or purple tint to them and those just won't do. I'm trying to keep the same tint color flowing front to rear.

Blue/Purple tint is likely old ink-dyed tint that has aged in UV. You want to get metallic tint. The shade of tint may depend on the laws in your state. The tint shade for the rear windows may be illegal to put on your front windows in many states.

Thanks! Metallic it is.[/b]

I've seen a few new cars with the front window tinted just recently, it has a purplish/pink tint to it (don't think its the old type). Is this something new?

Here's a pic of my E with the front windows tinted at 35%. It's a pretty close match but I think it is a little lighter than the factory.

http://www.jimlin.com/pics/e_tinted.jpg

The factory tint on the back is 20%. I don't think many states allow that on the front windows. You can get 30% on the front, and the difference is only noticeable if you're really looking hard at it.

This is what 30/20 looks like:

http://alum.wpi.edu/~kcf/element/photos/100_0863.jpg

I live in Orange County and have had Suntouch Window tinting do my last 5 vehicles, The di Medium tint on the fronts and Limo on the rears, they also did a 5" limo tint strip on the windshield which is the best thing I could have done. Let me know if you want their #.

HB

tinted my windows with two different tints i now have a flame job
the flames are slightly reflective tint and the rest matches the other windows it is wild :twisted:

I just tinted mine today. I went with 35% since anything lower isn't legal in CA. I think its close enough. I'll see if I can get a picture posted soon.

Josh

i'm looking to do the tinting on the 2 front windows. I know alot of people on the boards have posted around the range of $50 and a lifetime guarantee on them. Sounds great. I also remember reading somewhere that you should go w/ a certain "type" of tinting, i can't seem to find the thread....

If i call around and hear lifetime guarantee does that mean that every time it bubbles up or looks crappy they'll stick some more on? Have their been advances in tinting where that bubbling and peeling does not occur if done right and w/ new tinting material?

obviously i've never had a tint job done to any of my vehicles so i am completely clueless...i just want to know what i should get, im assuming i'll get the darkest % i can for VA state laws.

thanks for any info you can help w/.

- M.
mooremr6779@yahoo.com

[quote:0748218b90=" "]I also remember reading somewhere that you should go w/ a certain "type" of tinting, i can't seem to find the thread....

obviously i've never had a tint job done to any of my vehicles so i am completely clueless...i just want to know what i should get, im assuming i'll get the darkest % i can for VA state laws.[/quote:0748218b90]

Re: type

I think the coversation was about "metallic" as it reflects infrared. On the other hand, I suspect it will make your cell phone reception worse inside the E. :)

Re: %

Just remember that the darkest legal % might get you pulled over more often if the officer thinks it's too dark even if not. Might want to keep your tinting receipt in the car for those situations.

-brendan

Here's the posting with links to state laws on tinting: http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=6934&highlight=tinting+law

I'm not an expert but I think there are dyed tints and metalized tints. The dyed tints are the cheap ones and subject to fading.

If you go to a good car Audio center that also does tinting, I think you have the best chance of getting a good product and a good install. Look for a guarantee by the installer AND the tint maker. I had to have the passenger window redone after a few days due to some embedded link and a slight tear. They did it without question.

I'm very happy with the level of tinting I have which gives good privacy for the back areas and doesn't interfere with viewing out.

Bigfoot I have to say I had tint all the way around on my 93 Maxima not only did it look great but when driving to Neveda for nuptual bliss it kept the interior temp somewhere close to comfortable when parked. I live here in the south where today it not only says it on the calendar but it actually is the first day of spring. I have not tinted the E yet because my wife has dibs she wants to tint her Civic. Which brings up another reason she drives 100 miles a day and with tinted windows theres no chance of harrasment from unsavory drivers. :lol:

After doing some research I recently applied window film to the 2 front side windows and the front glass for $60.00.
I chose Solar Guard 43 HP CHARCOAL for the front glass. It is metallic and has a lifetime warranty against fading and bubbling. It´s metallic composition allows you to use a lighter shade while having better light reflection than darker shades of non industrial quality. It will protect you from the sun (which is pretty hot here all year round) and let you have good visibility during the night.
I also chose Solar Guard 40 HP SMOKE for the sides. It is non metallic but matches the rear window´s color better than the metallic CHARCOAL, although it is lighter in shade.

I chose to comply with the law of Puerto Rico, which allows you to tint your windows up to a 35%. The 40% of the window film plus the natural tint of the original front side windows will allow you to stay within a +-3% margin of the law, which is acceptable and will not get you in trouble.
In Puerto Rico you can take your car to your local transit police station and have them check your tints and put a sticker of approval so that they cannot stop you for that reason. Check out your local laws regarding tints with a police officer or check over the internet.

If one of these shops is near you, go with their stuff:

http://www.autotrimdesign.com

They have done three cars for me including the ELEMENT. I went with the "no fade" product at 35% for the front. VERY professional - looks great!

You want to go with either a metalized tint or a ceramic tint if you want to avoid bubbling and fading.

The metalized tints do have the issue of making cell phone reception worse, but I haven't really noticed too much of a difference in my E since I had the front two windows done.

The ceramic tint is new and a bit pricey. The tint is called Huper Optiks. I have done quite a bit of research into it because I am planning on tinting my VW and BMW with it. It isn't quite as dark as most tints, but still has excellent qualities of reflecting the sun and heat. I think it will be well worth the money, but I think you would be out of the $50 range. The other great aspect of the ceramic is that it does NOT interfere with cell phone reception. If you are interested in checking into it this is the web site www.huperoptikusa.com

Anybody in the Dallas area know of a good place to get tinting done?

Sunray Glass Tinting
Keller, TX
817 703-1182

They did a great job on my sunroof.

Factory and dealer did the other windows.

Alta Mere (sp?) on Lemmon @ Wycliffe did mine - quick and reasonable. Did what they said they would do, in the time frame they promised. Better than most, these day! I had the front windows done and a dark "eyebrow" in the top of the windshield to cut glare.

i'm thinking about tinting the front side windows to match the rest of the glass. does anyone know what level of tint i want or how much i should expect to pay?

Hmmm... Not sure what the cost of tinting may be, but check your state's laws on tinting - too much can be an additional cost. :)








8) [/quote]

I got 35% on my front windows and they are just a little lighter than the back. I paid $50 to have it done. The E looks better with all the windows tinted.

thanks george, that was the info i was looking for.

I brought my E into the window tinting place and simply told them to match the back windows. BUT ALSO - while my E was in the shop, a discussion was started on this forum which reminded me of the sunroof and its tinting options, and so i did it! I called in time and had the sunroof tinted also, same percentage as the windows and BOY AM I GLAD! The tinting actually helps on those hot days, and you dont even notice it from inside. (cost = $15 sunroof + $25 each for windows)

WELL WORTH THE MONEY!

Anyone from NY state tint their front passenger windows?
I called a place in Buffalo NY that used to do tinting but they said they stopped because they had to many issues with the police.

Thanks.

Look here: http://www.tintdude.com/ntoo.html#New%20York

Since the lightest commerical tint is roughly 50% and NY says nothing less than 70% transmittance (or, rather 30% tint), you can't do it. If the shop you talked to was unwilling, I'll bet that it was because customers were getting hassled and going back to them with "You didn't tell me it was illegal! You took my money for nothin'!"

Llumar tinting & dealers have all levels of tint, including legal for NY. They are also the best trained in my experience

I am about to pick my E this Saturday, counting hours now. When asking to tint the window, the dealer said that they're prohibited by law. Where can I find a place to tint the front windows and the sunroof? How much? Thanks

I just had the sun roof tinted at some place by my house. 50 bucks!
I thought that was a little expensive.

pretty much any tint shop will do it for you...
however, be aware that you will be fully liable if you are pulled over and given a ticket.

(i.e. in Cali and most states, you can't tint the front windows...you can tint the remaining to any color of your heart's desire)

I just had the two front side windows tinted to 50%, I had the 35% tint added to all of the rear windows, and 15% done on the sunroof. The entire job with a lifetime warranty was done for $140. It only took about an hour.

Bit of a side point from this thread, but I've got a Hawaiian dancer that I want to put on the dash, but it's pretty tall. I'm wondering if anyone knows the laws regarding stuff like that. I know here in CA that you can get a citation for tinted windows and things hanging down from the rear view mirror.

I haven't put her up there yet, I don't need to get pulled over.

Here's a link to each state's tint laws. Hope it's helpful: http://www.iwfa.com/iwfa/Consumer_Info/auto_statelaws.html

8)

i really wanted to get my front windows tinted, but in CA it is not legal (shen has a pretty funny post about this and getting a ticket, although the $240 ticket wasn't funny). i also noticed that all my friends' windows which are tinted are pealing badly. i opted to get visors for the front windows instead. they look cool (i think) and keep the sun out of my eyes for the most part. i am still thinking about getting the sunroof tinted...

Brian has the Easy-Shade Limo-Tint static cling 18x24" tint installed. It's a bit smaller than the sunroof window, but...

...he said it is close enough.

Brian? Pics? :)

-brendan

Pics tomorrow too sleepy tonight had a long day! Well unless I cant sleep then ill take them tonight.

Has anyone tinted the windshield, a small 3 or 4 inch band at the top. I wish the E came with it from the factory.

I was thinking about tinting my windshield's top, but then decided against it because I didn't want to waste my money in case the E had a cracked windshield. :roll: I might be on crack, but I just didn't want to do it. :D

No officer will ever pull you over just for a window tint violation since it is simply a fix it citation. If your stopped for another moving violation then you might be cited for tint but generally only if you have a bad attitude and give the officer reason to hassle you. It is no big deal; ask any police officer. 8)

My wife was pulled over and given a ticket for no other reason than the tinted windows on her Accord. The sheriff must have been in a bad mood. She said he was pretty rude, too. A police detective friend of ours signed off the ticket and that was the end of it. We never removed the tint.

I have the same tint on my truck, and I've never been hassled. The truck is bright red, lowered and rather loud, but the police leave me alone. Maybe it's the grey hair. I haven't gotten a ticket since 1969.

Dave

Here in HI I believe your driver/passenger side widows must be at 35% however you can put a tint strip on the top of the windshield if you want. Due to the problems I have had w/my factory windshield (cracks) I have opted against this so far.

Via a friend's tint shop put in 15% tint in the front however I was told by a few police buddies of mine that I should not drive thru certain parts of the island (Waikiki for example) or I will be pulled over and asked to strip the tint from my 2 windows, right there & then. The police officer(s) are more than happy to supply razer blades! I also believe there is a fine involved in the citation!

I had the two front door windows tinted to match the rest of the windows, and the visor stripe put on the windsheild. 65$ for it all with lifetime warranty. It makes it pretty dark inside. It is against the law here too. My brother is an officer, he says they usually won't pull people over for tint, but if they are suspicous of someone they will use it as a reason to pull you over. He said if I ever get pulled over to roll the windows down imediately, its a safety thing, they need to be able to see in.

No legal reason not to tint the sunroof. Keeps things cool. Had mine done at 60%, IIRC, for $65 incl. Nice job; way nicer, in fact, than what I was able to do.

I heard an interesting reason NOT to tint the sun roof today, from a "professional" tinting place, that seems to fly in the face of all the info I have heard here.

We were getting our Accord rear window tinted, since my wife really can't stand anymore getting over-tall SUV's and PU's blasting light at window level from behind, and I found I do like the light damping of the Element tint.

So while in there I though I would ask about getting my Element sunroof tinted. (instead of the static cling tint I have on it now). $50....BUT he basically tried to talk me out of it, going on about no warranty, and it sounded like a very good chance the "very thin" glass of the sunroof might break with the tint on from HEAT buildup. Basically turning away a sale!

He also said that here in the state of Washington it was illegal to have ANY of the windows on a "CAR" as dark as the stock Element, and that was only allowed on the Element because "trucks and SUVs" could have darker tint than "cars".

OK, the guy was questionable in his credibility for a few other reasons...but he did a good job on the rear Accord rear window tint for a good price. Anything to the rest of this?

Seems like I should have heard of some breaking sunroofs by now after a summer, if this was true? Seems like there have been at least a few people tinting sunroofs by now. 8)

That's the dumbest thing I've ever heard. I have had mine tinted at 5% limo tint since April and I park it in the middle of a big parking lot at work 5 days a week and in the street the other two in the sun with no problem whatsoever. He must be trying to start some urban legend or something. Tell him to write to that Myth Buster show on Discovery Channel. I would love to see the Element on tv anyways, ha ha.

No officer will ever pull you over just for a window tint violation since it is simply a fix it citation. If your stopped for another moving violation then you might be cited for tint but generally only if you have a bad attitude and give the officer reason to hassle you. It is no big deal; ask any police officer. 8)


Never say never. I had to pay a $150 fine after my wife got pulled over just for the too dark tint on the front windows. My E has been the third vehicle I have gotten tinted. In 1987 I got my Sentra windows tinted a few months later they changed the law and I had to pay to get it removed. Then I tinted my Maxima in 96 got a ticket after they changed the law. Got my E tinted in June and am waiting to hear they changed the law again :x

I am about to pick my E this Saturday, counting hours now. When asking to tint the window, the dealer said that they're prohibited by law. Where can I find a place to tint the front windows and the sunroof? How much? Thanks

You don't show you location but the link to the state laws provided above should answer your question. If you are in a a good sized town, there should be custom stereo shops that also do tinting. Look for a good one that uses high quality tinting material and you'll probably get a good job.

We had all our windows tinted (except windshield) and are really glad to not be driving around in a fish bowl. We can make all sorts of gesters at other cars in private and not be shot at any more. Very useful.

i'd like to tint the upper portion (about 5-6" max) of my windshield window only, ideally in some nice color (orange or green)

does anybody have ever done this and where do i get the tint -couldn't really find anything on the web that didn't have flames or car brands printed on :?:

You might also consider tinting all way round. This gives you so much more privacy in the back, you don't need the curtain. I started out just tinting the front, but it sort of looked unfinished, so I did the back as well.

So, it's about that time. I need to get my front windows tinted. I want them to match the rear ones though. What is the percentage of the rear ones? I will probably get the front window done too, eyelid you know. But it's scary cuz of the windshield breaking so much, I just got my windshield replaced cuz of the cracks. So, hopefully it won't crack again.
L.

Rear windows are 35%

good luck! be sure to share some pix when ure done

I have 20% front strip, driv & pass window and 0% black mirror on rear roof

http://www.nyelement.com/gallery/albums/Honda-Element-w-TL-wheels/IMG_0034.jpg

matches great IMO
and that is a daylight pic

Mike, what did it cost you to do all of that, minus the front window strip?

I so need spring to be here with the laundry list of things I have to get done to my E. I should post my list one day for you to laugh at. lol

I tinted my front windows with 20% thinking that would match it but it did'nt. I can clearly see through the back windows compared to my fronts. I got the back sunroof done with 5% and got a strip done in the front but Im not to happy. I dont know what he used but its to light and its to small. (5 inches to be exact) does anyone know the legal size of the stripe should be? Now im considering getting all the back done but I dont want it to dark where I cant see. The installer suggested to also used 20%. What do you guys think?

I believe the front windshield can have max stripe across the top of 6" of any %, even painted solid if you so chose. The side windows are on a state by state basis. NY is 70%, or 30% depending on how you look at it. :)

window tinting info (http://www.tintdude.com/ntoo.html) site. According to this site NJ does not allow any tint on the front side windows and allow any % on the rest of the windows. It also says NJ can't have a visor on the front windshield either... hmm let me try and find the NJ State DMV Law though. Man NJ DMV blows! Can't find anything on that site. FAQ is useless, search is useless...

I did see a few different forums where NJ owners bitched about their cars failing inspection because of tint on the windshield and the front side windows.

Just a warning... it sux :( I would ask where you plan on getting the E inspected before spending more money on tint you might have to pull off in order to pass.

Mike, what did it cost you to do all of that, minus the front window strip?

I so need spring to be here with the laundry list of things I have to get done to my E. I should post my list one day for you to laugh at. lol


60 bux
thru my friend

if you want it done lemme know might be a little more but nothing extreme

Yeah, tint can be a real hassle. Here in Kalifornia, the law doesn't allow any on the driver/passenger windows. I did mine anyway (reg. cab pickup -- don't own an element yet). No hassle from anyone, but I kept it real light.

As for windshield strips, most jurisdictions don't place a limit on the width of the tint, but require a minimum amount of clear windshield. That keeps everything equal for owners of cars with windshields of various dimensions.

Legality aside, I would never tint the side windows as dark as the rears. It's just too hard to see obstacles at night.

Cost me $50 for front two side windows and 6" strip on the front, all 20%, match back and keeps the E much cooler.

Got my tint for free when I bought the drop down tv...
http://c.myspace.com/00067/42/40/67400424_l.jpg

Just had mine done last week.

The installer asked me "You want 'em legal"? I told him I wanted them as legally dark as possible which I think he said for MA was 33% tint. Some states it is illegal for any tint on the front windows as has been previously stated.

Now is a good time to get them done since you are not supposed to open your windows, or wash your vehicle for 5 days after getting them tinted. That's easier to do now than it is once the weather gets warmer. Also very important not to use any glass cleaner (like Windex, or most over the counter brands), on your tinted windows. Many of you probably now that, but this was news to me!! :)

I paid $79.00 and am very happy with the look.

Always good to have pals in law enforcement. Ask your det. friend for a association or activities league bumper sticker from his agency, that will eliminate 9 out of 10 possible stops unless your really doing something wreckless 90+ mph or almost hitting a pedestrian. Still then they might stop you and just warn you but no ticket. Also donate $2000 life member of the CHP foundation or some sort of Law Enforcement organization...you get unofficial privledged passing "stickers"

My wife was pulled over and given a ticket for no other reason than the tinted windows on her Accord. The sheriff must have been in a bad mood. She said he was pretty rude, too. A police detective friend of ours signed off the ticket and that was the end of it. We never removed the tint.

I have the same tint on my truck, and I've never been hassled. The truck is bright red, lowered and rather loud, but the police leave me alone. Maybe it's the grey hair. I haven't gotten a ticket since 1969.

Dave

I opted to buy some tinting supplys from walmart and do it myself. Must say im pretty satisfided with it. I just tinted the front two, but for 15 bucks, u can't beat it. 20% matchs up perfect.

Always good to have pals in law enforcement. Ask your det. friend for a association or activities league bumper sticker from his agency, that will eliminate 9 out of 10 possible stops unless your really doing something wreckless 90+ mph or almost hitting a pedestrian. Still then they might stop you and just warn you but no ticket. Also donate $2000 life member of the CHP foundation or some sort of Law Enforcement organization...you get unofficial privledged passing "stickers"When I see those stickers on cars they're usually driven by old people who have been scammed by calls from the local Police Association looking for donations.

If I were a criminal and your theory is correct then I would have a bunch of them on my car. This shows how useless and dangerous it is to use these stickers.

Police should do their job and not show favorism to anyone. People that use or buy stickers to try and escape from the consequences of their actions should re-think how they want society to operate.

Police should do their job and not show favorism to anyone. People that use or buy stickers to try and escape from the consequences of their actions should re-think how they want society to operate.

AGREED!!
-Garrett

That's how the system works, kind of like concealed carry weapon permits. You got money, influence or can help the local sheriff get re-elected somehow.

You'll land your CCW permit, stickers, and even get sworn in as a full peace officer (i.e. scandal with LA County Sheriff & Orange County Sheriff)...other agencies just havent made front page doing the same because good old boys know howto keep a low profile when they get the goodies and not showing it off. I won't comment on what I have or how I got it.

Get the hint? Your friends a detective, Ask him on his opinion. He will agree, it costs money for programs or to get re-elected. Why would someone give money to get a individual elected if they got zero in return. Those stickers usually exsist for family members and relatives of peace officers, or folks who donate money to a fund of some sort.

REMEMBER YOUR DETECTIVE FRIEND SIGNED OFF ON YOUR TRAFFIC OR FIX-IT TICKET...THAT'S FAVORITISM RIGHT THERE!

Well I dont know about you guys, but the back windows on E are 20% died windows(not tinted). NOw if you want you could tint back windows darkest as you want but you wont be able to see thru them that well during day time and night all you would see is peeps headlights behind you.
here in NY 5% is limo tint(Really Really dark)
20% semi dark
35% Legal tint(just slightly tinted)

Here in NY its ILLEGAL TO TO HAVE DARK TINT IN FRONT WINDOWS(driver, passenger windows and front window especially; for the police will have every reason to pull you over and looked insde your car with flash lights and all. And ofcourse you will get ticket for illegal tint! constantly.

But it is Legal to put 35% (most very light tint) infront windows
(drivers, passenger) :)

FWIW, JuliE just took our E to the local auto window place to get estimates on tinting. They will not do the front windows because they say it is illegal in Illinois now. They said they'd do the sunroof for 50 bucks to which I told JuliE - no thanks.

FWIW, JuliE just took our E to the local auto window place to get estimates on tinting. They will not do the front windows because they say it is illegal in Illinois now. They said they'd do the sunroof for 50 bucks to which I told JuliE - no thanks.

Hi TMac
I did mine - top sun glass it was easy. Get the tint from Wally world. Way easy on the pocket book. Cost me $twenty. I'll post pictures if you want?

T-Mac,

It's alos illegal in my state (DE) but you can find someone to tint them. I take it you want your drivers and passenger sides done. Although it is illegal here i have at least 5 place that will do it for me, they just explain that they are not responsable if you are ticketed. Here in my town of 7,000 people our local police look the other way. They know when you go to get your car inspected (every 2 years) (or if its new 5 years later) you will be required to take it off to pass. So i just went to my doctor and told him that the sun kills my eyes and sunglasses make me sleepy so i would like to have a medical waiver to keep the tint on my glass. He says "sure no problem". So that is what DMV (department of motor vehicles) gets when i go to inspection next :twisted:

BTW.....$65 to tint the fronts

Here in Michigan front window and windshield tinting beyond factory specs is a primary violation i.e. you can be pulled over at the cops whim and cited either for obstructed vision or illegal tint. The obstructed vision is more money and more points than the tint ticket. It is interesting that since most cars are designed in this state, the tints they come with from the factory exactly coincide with Michigan law as it is written.
A lot of late night pot and dui busts start with tinted window violations. :|

I replied to the tinted windows thread with my question, that thread isn't really geared toward what I wanted to ask and I didn't mean to sidetrack the topic so I'll create my own.

I did a search and found results of people asking about the legality of tint, or about how dark to get tint and alot of results about tinting the sunroof.

Well my question is what brand of tint, that installers in this area carry, is the best. I found very little useful information on the web about this.

My choices are Johnson, Lumar, or Formula 1. I don't know of anyone with any of the 3 brands so I was looking to the boards to see if anybody had good/bad experience with those brands to steer me in the right direction. My goal is to tint the front 2 windows only.

The best resource I've seen is:

http://www.tintdude.com/

Check out their forums too.

To the people that's had front window tinting done, does it block out the sun when your drive towards it, or is it mainly for looks?

To the people that's had front window tinting done, does it block out the sun when your drive towards it, or is it mainly for looks?

I believe you're misinterpreting (or I'm misinterpreting your question). Tinting the front windows = the front side windows. If you tinted the windshield, that'd be illegal.

Sup Kamaaina's,

Get any place, price for get some limo tints (dark)
for the 5 back windows and the strip for the windshield? Kamaaina kind price... :lol:
Post if you got...

Mahalo, Aloha

yeah, they wont give reciept. (tintwerks)

Special T Tint is where I got mine done.

Any DIY window tinting? I did a quick search, but I didn't find squat. I found this guy on ebay selling precut kits here (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/HONDA-Complete-Precut-Tint-Set-Most-Models_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ63689QQitemZ7992 678349) . What do y'all think, yes or no? I did ask what brands he carries. :grin:

Assuming the quality is OK and that the cutting is properly done, then that sounds like a good deal to me -- cutting the film is the worst part of the job by far!

Hey all! I bought my '04 SSM EX awd 6 weeks ago & am very glad I took the plunge! Have been reading the lists as much as possible the past few months (what a great site!) & finally decided to put in my .02.

Momo, I paid $40.00 to have my 2 front door windows tinted about 6 weeks ago. Took about 30 minutes & they turned out great. I've tried to tint windows myself many years ago on my first car, let me just say that it's worth paying someone else to do it (getting the air bubbles out can be a pain). Plus most shops offer a lifetime warranty on the film & installation (as long as you keep the receipt). For what they want for this DIY window tint kit, I would pass on it.

Rod
'04 SSM EX awd

i bought limo tint at pepboys and did my rear sunroof. Oh man it came out like crap. Just pay someone and get a warranty w/ it.

I was sucessful with tinting my front two windows up to par. If I had to do it over again, I would gladly pay somebody to do it.

pay the money and have the experts do it. I did and I felt great afterward because it looks awesome.

I was considering tinting mine as well and talked to the local tint guy EVERBODY talks about and he said my stock windows are tinted at 18%. Here in SC anythign darken than 27% is illegal. But he told me $60 to tint my 2 front windows to match the rest at 18%. Not a bad price for the amazing work this guy does.

I want to tint out my whole car basically. Mostly the back windows but a slight tint on the front windows. Approx. how much will this cost (for the back I want limo tints)
If I goto a place that does tinting what should I ask for specifically so they dont rip me off because I know what i'm talking about

2 more things:
I live in New Jersey but goto school in Philadelphia so during school I will be okay with the tints but what can/can't I get away with in NJ (%)?

If anyone in the Philadelphia area has any recommendations that would be greatly appreciated

thanks for your help everyone

Just match the fronts up at about 25%. Anything more in back is almost useless.

I got my fronts matched for $45.

It's not a limo! :D

Had front windows done to math the back and the sun roof done with the darkest available. $100 Diamond film. Lifetime warranty. Cracking, peeling bubbling all covered.

Local shop did it. Huge difference in the summer.

Had front windows done to match the back and the sun roof done with the darkest available. $100--- Diamond film brand. Lifetime warranty. Cracking, peeling bubbling all covered.

Local shop did it. Huge difference in the summer.

www.tintcenter.com/laws

Yes, check your state laws for window tinting legality limits. The Element is also considered a SUV, if you did not already know. I just got done my passenger, drive, and windshield (strip) at 25% for $130. It might be high for some, but they did a wonderful job and it only took a couple of hours.

Check them out as they have stores state wide.

www.ziebart.com

Another question. I see trucks/cars with the 6 inch strip on the top of the windshield that say "Ford" and "Chevy". "Element" might be too busy, but can you get custom...Like maybe "EOC"?

Another question. I see trucks/cars with the 6 inch strip on the top of the windshield that say "Ford" and "Chevy". "Element" might be too busy, but can you get custom...Like maybe "EOC"?

Yes you can....Places(online or E-Bay) make stickers that just go right on the outside of the windows. If you have the EOC logo and send it to someone with the right computer setup they can put it in thier system and then turn it into a sticker for you. Would recomend putting it on in the summer as the sticky stuff really needs to get heated up and remove any bubles with a Ex-Acto knife or razor blade by just making a slight line in middle of bubble. After it has been summer baked on the edges will not peel up.

I made a sticker like this many,many,many years ago. It said "ANIMAL". I layed out the letters myself using some drafting skills. Enlarged the letters off of the Animal House record cover. I used the sticker stuff found at Hobby Stores for gas powered remote control airplanes. It is gas-proof and lasted a long time. In the winter you just keep the ice scrapper away from this area.

Nice idea IRV! I met my wife with this "ANIMAL" sticker on my front window about 17 years ago. It was at 4:00 am on a Saturday on Dodge st.(Everyone used to CRUZ on Dodge) and she yelled out,"So do you live up to your name?" I said," Yes!" and jumped into her Blazer with her friend. My roomate followed us in my truck to her parents house(lucky for us parents were on Vacation). My old roomate has been married to wifes friend forever and the Wife and I will be going on 11 years in January.

I don't use ANIMAL anymore so, feel free anyone!:D

I just have front windows (driver/passenger) tinted include windshield strip. I should medium shade (45%) to make it lighter than factory tinted glasses and Limo for Strip (any tinted window in front area are illegal in california:x ). I paid total of 55 bucks with lifetime warranty.

We are travelling at Xmas from Ontario to NJ via NY and PA....rt 81....380...rt 80

Have 20 tint on side windows to almost match the factory tint. I've read all the state laws and wonder if anything is likely to happen on our trip south with the authorities. Here in Ottawa they don't bother anyone for tint unless you are racing or some other blatant infraction.

Thanks in advance......

Here in Ottawa they don't bother anyone for tint unless you are racing or some other blatant infraction.



I'd expect about the same treatment here in the US as you'd get at home....in other words don't worry about it unless you're acting like a jerk or doing something "suspicious."

Here in New Jermany they might use it as an excuse to pull you over and "check things out"....but I wouldn't expect a ticket for it....you are from out of state. Probably less of a chance for any hassle in PA. Not sure about NY (especially via 87 or whatever), but most of the LEOs I've delt with in upstate NY semed interested in actual safety issues, not technical BS.

Drive safe and have a fun trip.

Will

Assuming your driving the Element, no worry. Now if you were driving an 94 Elderado or a 96 Lincoln Town Car with spiners or these guys...might be different.

Have a safe trip. Keep the speed close to the posted limit. NY and Pen. have radar traps uo the wazoo.


As for the Photo:
Well, some of us have less to do than others.

Here in NY they realy don't bother you unless you raise some red flag's I just had mine tinted to match the factory tints on the rear windows look's Good Chris

Don't sweat it, I towed a camper all the way from Ohio to Georgia without a liscence plate. The cops are looking for speeders this holiday season. Go slower than 10 mph over the speed limit. They were everywhere last week!

If stopped, just tell the cop that the tint in Ottowa is legal. It's called "reciprocity" --where states honor other states laws in situations like yours.

The law will vary in each state. I am sure that if you were pulled over, the officer would make an exception for you being from another country, unless they are simply a butthead. We have strict tint laws in my state and I see a lot of illegal tint on cars. I do not think that they can pull you over for a tint isue by itself.

NY can't force their tint laws on out of state or out of country vehicles. Those are DMV laws that apply to vehicles registered in the state in which they reside. Nothing to do with visiting vehicles.

It would be like NY having an emissions testing station at all of the border crossings and forcing every out of state vehicle to pass a safety and smog test before being allowed to drive here... it can't happen.

Just like Canada can't force US drivers to have their bumpers retrofitted to 5mph bumpers in order to drive in the country... but if you move to Canada from the US with a US 2.5mph bumper equipped vehicle you have to retrofit the vehicle.

Dont' worry about your E, enjoy your trip and drive safe.

Thanks everyone for your comments...the matching tint sure does look good. Now I look at every vehicle's tint jobs....it seems that about 30% of suv's and vans have the matching tint on the side windows here. I suspect it's the same everywhere. I'll be carrying my PBA cards (the same one Tony Soprano flashed at the Fountains of Wayne...for fans of the show). Looking forward to the first road trip ..... only 6 hours from Ottawa to Hackettstown/Budd Lake, NJ. We're ready to go with deer warning devices and outside temp probe....whoo hoo!

Here in New Jermany


Will,
How true!!

PS for general info..in PA only Troopers are allowed to use radar which is mostly Ka band. Local Yokels use timing lines, pacing,VASCAR..anthing but radar)
If your detector pics up alot of x and K its those traffic info signs and workzone radar "monitors" (not photo equiped).

Nj seems to use mostly x and k ...it blends into background pollution so its sometimes harder to realise its a speed trap.

I noted that a few people mentioned that when they tint the front windows that it is difficult to see at night. I have never tinted the drivers window but was thinking of it to keep the car cooler and reduce glare.. and it looks nice. What would be the recommended tint for those windows if the tint that matches the rear windows is too dark?

Kalinka

In most states tinting more than the few top inches of the front window is illegal.

Around here, if a professional does it, they won't install anything that doesn't meet codes. The main issue, I think, is that if your tinting is so dark then the police can't see you pull a gun on them before it's too late.

There are quite a few threads on this that will give you some useful tips.

My experience, having lived in several areas (some of which allow tint others which dont):

- anything darker than 25% is hard to see out of at night
- 25% or darker makes it hard for other drivers to see you (can be a hazard)
- 50% is good enough to cut the glare and UV but is barely noticeable (good for no tint jurisdictions)

I just put a 3inch or so band of static cling tint across the top of the windshield and it makes a Huge difference on the glare factor for bright sun driving. I did it primarily for my short wife...and she does indeed really like it, but I find it helps in general, and keeps your visibility and legal standing intact.

I just put a 3inch or so band of static cling tint across the top of the windshield and it makes a Huge difference on the glare factor for bright sun driving. I did it primarily for my short wife...and she does indeed really like it, but I find it helps in general, and keeps your visibility and legal standing intact.

That sounds like a really good idea, that stuff just sticks to the window itself with no adhesive?

That sounds like a really good idea, that stuff just sticks to the window itself with no adhesive?

Yes, but read the instructions. It works best if you spray with water and squeegee it well when you put it on. It had some TINY bubbles that mostly go away with time if you water spray and squeegee well.

I didn't have a long enough chunk after doing the sunroof so left a small gap in the center of the front windshield, just behind the mirror and then put a nice translucent sticker to fit the gap and it looks like the gap was done on purpose.

Be careful with the darkness on the side windows -as PVR said, some tints are almost impossible to see out of at night. Mr Tango is a big fan of the darkest legal tint - which is just wonderful in the hot midday Texas sun BUT at night when it's misty I have to roll down the windows to back up safely. I am waiting until I see how the E is in the summer before I decide on tint - if I do anything I am not going to go real dark - just enough to kill the glare and cut some of the sun. I probably will do a strip at the top of the windshield - someone here had theirs done in orange/copper tint and I am thinking of doing something similar. It's a BIG expense of glass and goes really high - can already see I will want something at the top.

I just put a 3inch or so band of static cling tint across the top of the windshield and it makes a Huge difference on the glare factor for bright sun driving. I did it primarily for my short wife...and she does indeed really like it, but I find it helps in general, and keeps your visibility and legal standing intact.


I too put a band across the top of my windshield. But mine is about 4 inch's and had it installed at a tint shop. Can't do the front side windows around here. Local police don't care for it at all.

Ken

I too put a band across the top of my windshield. But mine is about 4 inch's and had it installed at a tint shop. Can't do the front side windows around here. Local police don't care for it at all.

Ken

Ken, it doesn't matter what the Rochester Police tell you... according to NY State DMV Law you are allowed to tint your windows (http://nysdmv.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/nysdmv.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_sid=PICPTc1i&p_lva=&p_faqid=28&p_created=972051240&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9ncmlkc29ydD0mcF9yb3dfY250PTEmc F9zZWFyY2hfdGV4dD10aW50JnBfc2VhcmNoX3R5cGU9MyZwX2N hdF9sdmwxPX5hbnl_JnBfY2F0X2x2bDI9fmFueX4mcF9zb3J0X 2J5PWRmbHQmcF9wYWdlPTE*&p_li=). I live on Long Island and have never been pulled over for window tint and if I was I wouldn't have worried as my tint has always been done to the letter of the law.

My Element will be getting done in a couple months and will be at the legal limit. Thinking about putting a windshield 4-6" band on as well.

Question What are the laws in NYS about tinted vehicle windows? http://nysdmv.custhelp.com/rnt/rnw/img/trnsp.gif Answer Section 375 (12-a) of the NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law does not allow a windshield or front side windows that are dark. The windshield and front side windows cannot block more than 30% of the light. Seventy percent or more of the light from the outside must pass through the window. This law also applies to the rear window unless the vehicle has outside rear-view mirrors on both sides. The mirrors must give the driver a full and clear view behind the vehicle.
If the vehicle is classified as a station wagon, sedan, hardtop, coupe, hatchback or convertible, the rear side windows must also allow at least seventy percent of light from the outside to pass through the window.
It is illegal to sell, offer for sale, or install glass that does not comply with this law. It is illegal to operate a vehicle with glass that does not comply with this law.
If a medical condition requires a person to have tinted vehicle windows, they can request an exemption from the law. Request form MV-80W from a DMV Office or Call Center (http://www.nysdmv.com/callorvisit.htm).

All my windows are tinted , except the front.

I had mine tinting on my (SMM) '03 Element and it was done to match the factory tint. It l@@ked really nice and gave the car a whole profile and look! However at night, it was too dark for me when it came to backing up in dark places, mainly my driveway. In my subdivision there are no street lamps and it's dark as heck! I was going to have it removed but I ended up trading it in last month for a (TRP) '06 Element. I believe the tint I had on my two front doors was 35% and I vowed not to go that deep this time. Here in Indiana the law states that you can't have dark tint unless you have a medical reason and script from a doctor. Also the law states that only that if the two front doors are tinted, it has to be done in a manner that will allow front seat occupants to be ID'd under any lighting, or weather conditions. If the Element had a front passenger sunroof you could get away with 35% since you do get light through the top but not the case here. I also had a strip placed across the windshield where the AS1 line would be. The Element has a spot there the allows the sun to really blind you and a strip across the top there really works out well. In the old days cars came with a strip of factory tint there but now a day's, it seldom comes that way unless you're on an upper scale luxury model. I've attached some pics of my old Element with the tint and the new that needs it. Also there is a pic of my brothers Element (NBP) and it has 40% grade on it. Looking at the pic, it's seems like it may not have any tint but in the real, it has a nice, light tint. When you get to be my age, I need all the assist I can get and still stay jazzy!

Both my fronts are 20 and they are pretty close to the rear, you get used to the darkness, the only time they are dangerous for me is when they get dirty, and by dirty i mean covered with road salt/sand. Other than that i have no regrets going with 20, i'm gonna add another 35 to the rear this summer.

I have a hard time seeing out of all my windows. I had the front sides tinted the same as the stock rear windows. Then I have the strip on the front. Then I just put on the door window visors. It's dark. Just how I like it. I guess it's looks of functionality...haha. :cool:
L.

Got em done. Went with the 35% on the two front doors and across the windshield. I like it and for $79.00 it was a deal. Now, I'll do my pop up top in the rear myself. This down on light coming in and keeps the car cooler.

What are your suggestions about tinting the front side windows? I had all around tint in my Accord and the light is bugging me. I was thinking about getting a light tint. Has anyone had any experience with this?

PS. I just order a non-slip mat from this industrial mat site last night. Right now I just saw that sweet mats from Murdock. I emailed them to cancel my order. I'm going to have to pay something I'm sure (restocking fee). I really like the Murdock one's. Once I find out what the damage is on the cancellation I'm going to figure out what to order from Murdock.

I just always go to my local tint shop and tell 'em to do every window as dark as legally possible. Of course, part of the element is already tinted, so you might want to try to match that as close as possible.

I matched the rears with 20%. 35% is legal, but I took me chances to attain the look. Was just $50 from a local Joe. Mine is an '05 NBP, and I strive to attain the all-black look. Black Box.

FX

Yes. My buddy said it should cost about $50. I have a couple places locally I know of, I will check them out. I will try for the 20% I want to keep a clean look on the windows as well.

Make sure you're getting either carbon fiber or ceramic based tint because anything else will start to fade or discolor over time. The ceramic based tint is the best in terms of quality and heat/UV rejection but is of course more expensive and somewhat hard to find. Any reputable shop should have the carbon fiber based film.

Also keep in mind that the legality of tint varies from state to state, in the case of PA there is no legal tint on the front windows nor can you add an aftermarket tint band to the top of your windshield. Just because you got 35% doesn't mean you can't get cited for it so check with local law enforcement, anonymously on the phone of course, don't pull up in front of the station in your E ;-)

Of course the worst they can usually do is write you a citation that requires you to remove the tint.

I got mine from a place that insures the front windows. In other words they remove the tint if I get a ticket, then reinstall it for free. Makes it a lot easier to handle.

I got mine from a place that insures the front windows. In other words they remove the tint if I get a ticket, then reinstall it for free. Makes it a lot easier to handle.
Bad idea. Very, very, very bad idea. Read this thread:

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=22805

Man, that sux. I read the other post. Shen lives in the OC which is right near me. On my Accord I had illegal tint for 5 years. It was limo tint all the way around except for the front windshield of course. I never had any tickets or accidents, absolutely nothing. I don't know if I'm going to do it now. I think I will check with the CHP on if there is any acceptable tint period. If they say a certain percentage is acceptable I think I'll risk it otherwise I will forget about it. :cry:

Man, that sux. I read the other post. Shen lives in the OC which is right near me. On my Accord I had illegal tint for 5 years. It was limo tint all the way around except for the front windshield of course. I never had any tickets or accidents, absolutely nothing. I don't know if I'm going to do it now. I think I will check with the CHP on if there is any acceptable tint period. If they say a certain percentage is acceptable I think I'll risk it otherwise I will forget about it. :cry:


There is no such thing as legal fromt window tint in california But, most police officers, and CHP officers will not mess with you unless they cant see the driver and passenger in the vehicle. Its a safety issue for the officers in a traffic stop.

I always match the fronts with the back windows, it looks cleaner and it keeps my car cooler. I know im breaking the law but never had a ticket in californa because of the window tint.

i have 20% on two front windows and 5% on all the rest and it is legal in texas

Make sure you're getting either carbon fiber or ceramic based tint because anything else will start to fade or discolor over time. The ceramic based tint is the best in terms of quality and heat/UV rejection but is of course more expensive and somewhat hard to find. Any reputable shop should have the carbon fiber based film.


Boxer did you get carbon fiber? Or do you know which kind you did get? Does anyone have a shop they recommend in So. Cal. ? I might go this weekend.

Ill recommend Whittier Tint in Whittier on Whittier Blvd and Beach. They have a lifetime guarantee on their tint products and labor. They have been in business for a very long time. Ill dig up the number and give it to you if you would like.

You can ask them what type of tint they use. What ever type they use is whats on my vehicles.

Has anyone self-installed window tint on the front windows to match the rear windows? I know that quite a few have had it professionally done.

I ask because I have seen the pre-cut kits on eBay. My only issue is whether or not it's a DIY job for the faint hearted. I've seen some horrible tint on the road and don't want to embarrass my E like that. :)

Thanks!

-Bo-

Has anyone self-installed window tint on the front windows to match the rear windows? I know that quite a few have had it professionally done.

I ask because I have seen the pre-cut kits on eBay. My only issue is whether or not it's a DIY job for the faint hearted. I've seen some horrible tint on the road and don't want to embarrass my E like that. :)

Thanks!

-Bo-

I definately agree about not embarassing your E. I'd just get it professionally done just to be on the safe side.

Even the best pre-cut kit would require that you remove your interior door trim to do the job correctly. If the kit doesn't require that, it will look like the amateur job you fear. This is one of the worst possible do-it-yourself projects to consider, unless you have experience. And if you had that, odds are you wouldn't have asked the question in the first place. Pay to have it done right -- it's worth it. :|

Cool, thanks for the advice.

I feared it was going to be something better left to the professionals. Looks like I'll be making some phone calls come spring.

Thanks!

-Bo-

Got my two fronts tinted for 25 bucks each (50 total). Not sure what the kits cost on eBay but they can't be much cheaper then that. No need to wait til spring.

Yes I agree tinting isn't all that easy to do.....I tried it years ago and failed miserably.....waste of $$ & time.

Also look for deals in the down seasons....sometimes tint shops will run a deal to get more business thru the door from time to time.

A LOT of places here are doing special winter pricing to get cars thru the door. It's cold, cloudy and rainy - they need business. Spring is the WORST time because everyone starts thinking about tint and summer and spiffing up their ride. I just got a HECK of a deal on mine - shop a couple of places and ask 'em straight out about a winter special or snow special - betcha you can find a screamin' deal in Columbus in grey, snowy February.

Just watch the tint laws in your jurisdiction.

I live in a no-tint zone for front windows but can get away with 50% - it cuts the UV and is hardly noticeable. Just recently the police around here seem to be cracking down because there are more stupid kids putting limo tint on their front windows.

I would be very careful of going too dark in most parts of the U.S. - I don't blame police for being nervous if they can't see the driver clearly. I remember back in the 70s in Texas having a police officer unclip the hammer strap on his gun when he stopped me just to check on my out of state tags!

In Texas fronts can go as dark as 30% - rest of the windows can evidently be painted black if the owner wants :-o

I got Huper Optik 40% on my side windows and it's not dark at all - no loss of vision at night as far as I can tell and it blocks like 80% of the UV and the HEAT. Better than all the regular tints, no matter how dark they are. With the new tints (ceramic mostly) you do not have to go dark to get glare,UV and heat reduction. Even the 30% Huper Optik you can see thru easily - bet the cops LOVE it. I personally don't blame them - having limo tint on a regular car is just overkill...and IMO, looks cheap, and silly, not cool.

BTW, whether you have dark tint or NO tint the BEST way to reassure a cop when they stop you is to roll down ALL the windows (not just the drivers window) and put both your hands on the steering wheel above the sightline. Then don't MOVE (or anyone else in the car either) until the cop is at the window. If they ask you for something (like your license and insurance) tell them you are going to get them and where you are going to get them from. Don't just start digging in your purse, console, glove box etc. The nicer you are the more likely you are to get a warning instead of a ticket. Being overly polite and doing it THEIR way can really pay off.

eh Tango,

Whatcha think about doing the huper on a sunroof for these Texas summers? My kid loves playing I spy etc out the sunroof when I take her to school so I've hesitated tinting it dark. She gets beamed pretty good some days. The wife hates the sun from the sunroof when she rides back there on trips so we had one of those perforated kiddie window things up there during the summer. I absolutely hate that thing...pink unicorn :-o

I've tinted my sunroof here in the sunny Okanagan. Makes a HUGE difference.

OK, I'll admit it, we did it for the dog! :)

Hey whats up?

My newest "mod" to my E is my tinted windows. 7inch 5% sunstrip, and 18% all around. How dark is everyone else's? Has anyone been given trouble by the cops for their tint or any other mods?

Yeah I had 15% all the way around....looked sweet but ONE cop in our small town has issues with ANY tint that's darker than legal.

So after 2 tickets I now run the legal 35% all the way around....still looks good but isn't near as nice as before :|

Maybe one day I can get a perscription from an eye doctor to run the dark stuff again :D

I all depends on your location as to what you can get as far as tint is concerned...some areas don't mind it being a little dark and some do.

As long as you're not running something crazy dark and illegal, you're usually ok.

you know what would be nice, double limo all the way around...2%. but that would really piss off cops. what town do you live in anyways that has cops like that?

2% would just be way too much....you wouldn't be able to see anything at night :D

I live in columbia city, Indiana....population of about 8000 in the city....small town and we have just one cop that's overzealous about tint...too bad too as my E looked sweet.

ive got double limo tint on every window on my E except for the two front ones (20%) and the windshield (35%)

ive got double limo tint on every window on my E except for the two front ones (20%) and the windshield (35%)


how does that look? is driving at night easy looking through the rearview or do you have to pull down ur windows to look outside? have you gotten any trouble with the cops yet?

Did you do a strip on the windshield or the whole windshield?

Legalities aside, how dark is too dark may also relate to your age.

For backing up, I simply cannot see well enough at night anymore with limo tint on my windows.

I think I might just use a high gloss black latex paint....aint no sun getting in now...jk lol....I tinted the fronts to match the stock rear windows. So far so good....

From what I know...tinting the whole windshield is illegal....you usually only get about a 4-7" strip to go down the windshield with.

What are the legalities about a prescription from an eye doctor and tint? I've never heard about this before. Is it just an Indiania thing? Is there anywhere else that i can find out more about it?

Oh, and i have 5% strip on my windshield, 35% on my fronts, and an extra 20% on my sunroof. drastically cut down the temp in my E in the southern summer heat.

No it's not just and Indiana thing....if you have sensativity to bright lights or people with cadaracs (sp) they can get a perscription from their eye doctor and get tint that's darker then legal.

You currently have legal tint it seems on your E anyways right now 35%. You can try to google some things so see what comes up, but it's not something that's advertised much. Most you'll find is probably some other forums talking about it like us. :D

Here's a chart from "tintdude.com about the state laws. I'm sure digging around there (where the tinters hang out) will get you info on medical waivers.:D

Just be advised. Tint your windows too dark and you will be a target for the hunter police. Be prepared to be stopped at any time, keep it legal, and have all your paperwork on hand. :cool:


http://www.tintdude.com/laws.html

Here's my tint. Front same as Stock Rear (20%). Since I'm an old f*rt and drive a Tangerine E' the local officers leave me alone. :p) or is it the '07 Spoiler(?)

Regards,


http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f228/WWCD/DSC01180A.jpg

can anyone who has limo dark on either their front or back, or both take a pic of it and show it to everyone else? i just wanna see what it would look like before i get it. thank

Gold here is some pics of the back of mine....has factory tint + 15%...don't know what that equals to but it's pretty dark. The first pic is with the front windows rolled down on a very sunny day.

Bofus...tint is looking sweet!! Wish my town would let me even be close to that dark. :cry:

IRV - How updated is that chart? Says indiana is 30% and I thought we were 35% :|

the oduble limo is a bit hard at night, but with 35% on the sides you learn to use your mirrors. its actually pretty simple. my whole windshield is in fact tinted, but its light enough to where you cant even notice. the side windows dont even look tinted compared to the back. ive never gotten a glance from a cop nor any trouble from any law enforcement. tinting over here isnt a big deal. i think most cars around are tinted. it looks very nice aswell. adds alot of character to the overall look of the vehicle

the oduble limo is a bit hard at night, but with 35% on the sides you learn to use your mirrors. its actually pretty simple. my whole windshield is in fact tinted, but its light enough to where you cant even notice. the side windows dont even look tinted compared to the back. ive never gotten a glance from a cop nor any trouble from any law enforcement. tinting over here isnt a big deal. i think most cars around are tinted. it looks very nice aswell. adds alot of character to the overall look of the vehicle

i totally agree with you about the character it adds to the car. it makes it look badass, which is totally tight. can you post some pics though? also i have 18% on the fronts now, and factory on the back. its kinda hard looking out the side mirrors at night, so i dont know if i wanna get double limos on the back, thought it would look sweet

Here's another list of state tint laws. Indiana is 30% on this one too.
:)
http://www.tintcenter.com/laws

Its pretty up to date.. and TX FTW btw! Its hard finding a shop with 25% tint though.

Yeah shops around here only have two types of tint 15% and 35%....others they have to special order and most don't want to because of the excess left over unused.

I have 20% on the front side windows to match the factory back windows and a 20 strip on the windshield. Its still not quite as dark as the rear and yes it is illegal in CT.

The thing that you have to keep in mind is also the reflective factor of the tint you apply. If you go with a very reflective tint you WILL get stopped. Cops don't like to try to look in your window and just see themselves. I used a smoked tint to match the back. I used to have the 20% with metalic reflective film. I couldn't see at night and was told by my cousin in law enforcement to eliminate the reflective stuff.

Of course, my rule is roll down the windows, make eye contact in a non-threatening manner and you have few problems. I like a tough looking ride but no body wants to be mistaken for hard case.

So if I go get 20% to go on my front windows it will match the back.

Correct?

rolling down your windows really only works if the officer was pulling you over for something else besides tint.....if they pull you over for tint they'll just ask you to roll it back up halfway so they can put the tint-meter on. :|

well i dunno i have the factory 20% from the back suicide doors all the way back PLUS Limo tints. On my driver and passanger doors i have LIMO and on my from i have 55%.

I'm running 35% on the two front door windows and I have the same on a windshield brow that goes down to the AS1 mark. I've never had a problem obviously since I'm following state law. Generally people can get away with a darker tint when they have a front sunroof which the E doesn't have. That sunroof allows for more light to come in the cabin and the darker tint doesn't look illegal.

i use to have 35% on my front windshields but it was like having no tint at all so i got it changed to 18%...and its pretty dark, but I would really rather have limo tint, 5%. Can anyone post double limo dark or limo dark on their element please?

I must be getting old then. Mine is dark! I can see out obviously during the daylight hours but at night I have to roll down my windows to see when backing up. I know you can look into my ride during the day and see a figure but that's it. I think anything like limo tint is over-kill but if your state allows it, go for it but do be advised if you travel into another state with it like Indiana for example, you would be subject to arrest. There is no exemption unless you have a medical statement on hand. It's an officer safety thing.

Peace!

I have 20% all the way around and a 5% strip.

thats tight thats what i have too. mines a little darker, 18% all around but that doesnt really diffeer. im thinking about 5% all around, or 5% front and 2% backs

I heard that 3M makes the best (or one of the best) window tint products. I'm due to have my windows tinted at a local shop tomorrow and just asked what product they use. They told me Global Express window film. How does this compare to 3M and should I go ahead with it, or find another detail shop that uses 3M (or something better?)

Thanks!

--digi

I`ve been tinting windows for over 21 years and I`ve used just about every tint thats on the market, I`m not a big fan of 3M automotive films but there are alot of other films out there that are better quality, Global films has a good product but the things you should look for is the quality of work the shop does and the warranty they offer, also how long the shop has been in business and ask to see some work they have done that way you can see if it`s the quality you`re looking for. Hope this helps.

I second that statement BMX, I chose a tint place based on the work I saw from a neighbor that has a really nice all black mitsubishi (mdx?), but limmo tint throughout, and looked very sharp. They got it all done in a couple of hours and they were very professional. But if I wanted the front windows tinted that dark, I couldn't have a receipt because having that dark front windows is illegal in TN, so I went with a shade lighter in the front. But I would ask around and see who got their cars done by who and if they did a good job. It was the first mod that I had done.

Digi, my friend has a shop here he has used 3M in the past he didnt like it now he use's Global on most of the windows he does like B.M.X. said check the work of the shop .:cool:

OK so since I started this thread, I had my windows tinted at a different place that uses Madico film. I just got the car back today after lunch. He used a 20% tint and the result seems to match the rear windows pretty well. My only complaint, and maybe this is just me or not having ever used an after market tint service before, but looking out from the inside is definitely darker than looking through the rear windows that came factory tinted. Is this normal? There's also a noticeable green hue on the front ones, inside mostly but knowing it's there it's noticeable from the outside too. Is this all normal, and something I should just get used to or should I get my money back and try elsewhere...perhaps the global express place this time?

Thoughts?

--digi

I have never had after market tinting done. You mention that you are unhappy and may ask for your money back. Is the tint that easy to remove?

Well as far as I understand it, it's just a film that's applied to the inside of the glass. I believe it can just as easily be removed by someone knowledgeable of the whole process...

Perhaps it just has the dark/green hue because it hasn't "set" for over 24hrs yet, or because I haven't seen it on a really sunny day. Can anyone comment on this?

I know that when I had mine done, I couldn't put the windows down for about 48 hrs. And I didn't have a green tint to them. I had the front windows the same tint as the rear and the rear I had another layer added to make them a really dark, almost limmo tint. It is very hard to see in the back of the car, which is good 'cause I keep my golf clubs in the back, but its really easy looking out. But at night it is really hard to see out of the back. The one thing that I did notice when I had my tint done was that because I wear polarized sun glasses, the tint has a rainbow effect to them. It's something that I have gotten used to and it isn't distracting, but I have never heard of a green hue. If you are not satisfied, I would call back and see if you could get your money back, because it is your car and you are not happy with the results. They also should have explained this when you got your E back.

I know that when I had mine done, I couldn't put the windows down for about 48 hrs. And I didn't have a green tint to them. I had the front windows the same tint as the rear and the rear I had another layer added to make them a really dark, almost limmo tint. It is very hard to see in the back of the car, which is good 'cause I keep my golf clubs in the back, but its really easy looking out. But at night it is really hard to see out of the back. The one thing that I did notice when I had my tint done was that because I wear polarized sun glasses, the tint has a rainbow effect to them. It's something that I have gotten used to and it isn't distracting, but I have never heard of a green hue. If you are not satisfied, I would call back and see if you could get your money back, because it is your car and you are not happy with the results. They also should have explained this when you got your E back.

Yeah, well from what you just said, I'm guessing there are alternatives to the film I got with the green hue. I definitely don't like it. I will be going back hopefully tomorrow to get my money back and check out what another shop can do. Damn, this was my first "mod" and so far not good :( I hope it works out. Do you by chance know what type of film you had applied to your E?

I'm sorry I don't know. I will have to look at the receipt in the E, if I still have it in my SweetTater. And I am sorry you do not like the result. I will check tomorrow and let you know if they say what kind of tint that they used. But if you don't like, I would definately get my money back. Do you think that you will tint the back windows as well so that they are darker? Ill let you know tomorrow what kind of tint they used.

I have full limo in the back and dark in the front :Dvery happy:D

They offered to darken the back, but I'm glad I didn't now that I've seen the end result. I really hope I can get my money back and they have some kind of satisfaction guarantee. Ugh. Thanks for all your help guys. I hope to get this resolved this week, take it to a new place, get full limo tint on the rears and 15% on the fronts or 25%...whatever...

I have called and asked what kind of tint they used in my E. They said it was a carbon based film made from the company called SunTech. The guy said that they don't ship to people, they just ship to companies. So if you call around, you can ask if they use a carbon-based film. Sorry I couldn't be any more help to ya. I wish ya the best of luck. Here's a web site, I don't know if it is exactly them, but give em a shot.


http://www.suntechtint.com/auto.asp

Nah that's perfect. I appreciate it. I called the place I had my tint done. The guy was really understanding. I have an appointment for tomorrow to get one window redone with 3M (I think he even mentioned Suntech) to see how I like it instead. What he kept saying though was that my front window glass was naturally "green" which is why the tint looks that way...and that other shops probably couldn't do much better. I'm having a hard time believing that seen as we all have the same E's (maybe the glass varies by year) so why is my tint greenish and yours not. I told him I'd rather have the tint removed and get a refund because it's not matching and not what I wanted. He said let's try the other film first and then we can talk about a refund. We'll see tomorrow. He seemed like a reasonable guy, so I'm hoping if I still don't like it I can get a refund.

--digi

Hey digi, that guy just wants to keep your money. So maybe if the other film works better, maybe he could redo the whole thing. And I don't think that the glass differs that much from year to year, besides that, we both have the same model year E, they should be pretty much the same (for the most part) but the windows should be the same. Yeah I think he just wants to keep your $$$, but be weery and don't be afraid to say no and get that money back and go to another place. Just wondering, but how much did you pay to have them done? Mine was $175 out the door. And the suprising thing is that this place looked like a whole in the wall place, not too appealing from the road, but I would recommend that place to anybody for the service and the product that they use. Let us know how it goes.

Hey digi, that guy just wants to keep your money. So maybe if the other film works better, maybe he could redo the whole thing. And I don't think that the glass differs that much from year to year, besides that, we both have the same model year E, they should be pretty much the same (for the most part) but the windows should be the same. Yeah I think he just wants to keep your $$$, but be weery and don't be afraid to say no and get that money back and go to another place. Just wondering, but how much did you pay to have them done? Mine was $175 out the door. And the suprising thing is that this place looked like a whole in the wall place, not too appealing from the road, but I would recommend that place to anybody for the service and the product that they use. Let us know how it goes.

I paid $165 out the door, so pretty close. I agree he wants to keep my money, but what can I do. If it still doesn't work I think he'd be more willing to refund me if nothing he can do satisfies me. I should have just waited and gone to the first place. I stopped there on the way home for the afternoon today and took a look at a car they were doing. The global express stuff looks much better and they'd charge me $250 for tinting the whole thing any tint %. I had the guy take a look at the tint job I already got done and he said "yeah it's the film they use...I can see the green". Definitely noticeable.

Thanks for your help though man...I hope I get this worked out. I'll let you know tomorrow.

Cool. Hope all goes well and I will be looking to see what happens.

Is it just me or does 165 seem expensive to tint front windows? It sounded like it was just the front windows from reading the posts.
I just had my '08 done with 15 percent to match the rears with a windshield strip for 90 bucks. Lifetime warranty, Sunguard film. Which I have had on 3 other cars and they looked great for 5 years..

Is it just me or does 165 seem expensive to tint front windows? It sounded like it was just the front windows from reading the posts.
I just had my '08 done with 15 percent to match the rears with a windshield strip for 90 bucks. Lifetime warranty, Sunguard film. Which I have had on 3 other cars and they looked great for 5 years..

Damn that is a good deal! The price I quoted for the fronts is pretty typical around here (Seattle area).

I paid 60.00 for the front and 110.00 for all five rear. Done at different times or would have been 150.00:confused:

Sorry, it was 175 for two front to match the back and the three in the rear to be almost limmo, so total for all 5 windows. Plus, it was done very professionally and I would definately recommend them to anyone around my area to get theirs done there as well. But looks as though tribal and cerby, you guys got some great deals :grin::grin:, and as long as you are happy with them, that's all that counts.

Definitely more expensive around here for tinting...

Anyway I just got back from the tint shop and the guy peeled off the Madico charcoal film that looked all dark and green. We put up some Solarguard and 3M film on the outside of the window to see what looked better. Definitely an approvement. The light meter read 25% on the Solarguard and 15% on the 3M so I went with the 3M. It looks CONSIDERABLY better. From the outside it looks nice and dark, no green haze and matches the rears pretty well. From the inside, you can notice it looks a little darker than stock tint in dim/low light but MUCH better than the Madico film. I'm happy now and will probably be taking it back to the guy to darken the rest of the windows to 5%.

Solar guard tint is number one tint. I have my element Tinted 8% in the front and 15% in the rear makes limo all around. It toke them 40min and they did it in front of me. Sierra's Tints in Elizabeth is where i went and they told me if anything goes wrong with it , that i come back and they do it for free and its all computer cut tint. So its perfect

Yeah this shop doesn't have anything in between 5-15%. I'm gonna take it back there to have the rears done. He thinks that the same 3M film 20 or 15% will make it look limo tint. I've learned my lesson though. Gonna have him do one of the small square windows first to see if it looks good. If so, then we'll do the rest.

-digi

Good job digital, I'm glad that you got it all fixed. He put the tint on the outside of the windows? I had mine put on the inside, is there a right way to do this? Or do both work?

Good job digital, I'm glad that you got it all fixed. He put the tint on the outside of the windows? I had mine put on the inside, is there a right way to do this? Or do both work?

Tint should be on the inside. I'm supposing that they put some sample film on the outside to see what it would look like before the shop did the full job.

Tint should be on the inside. I'm supposing that they put some sample film on the outside to see what it would look like before the shop did the full job.

Exactly. The finished product was cut and glued to the inside of the window. I just had him hold up sample rolls of film (various makes) to get an idea what it would look like. I told him that he should probably default to 3M in the future when tinting E's. He agreed :)

very good..very good...I kind of thought so. My ex had this horrible looking purple tint that had to have been a DIY and it had air pockets and everything. It was aweful, no wonder the da** thing broke down so many times we came home for a visit in college.

very good..very good...I kind of thought so. My ex had this horrible looking purple tint that had to have been a DIY and it had air pockets and everything. It was aweful, no wonder the da** thing broke down so many times we came home for a visit in college.

hehe, say no more :)

I want to have my glass tinted all the way around...metalized is way more expensive...Is it worth the extra $$$?