How to Buy Car Window Tint Film: The Do’s And Don’ts

Have you ever gotten behind the wheel of your car after it’s been parked in the sun for a few hours? Then you know exactly how hot that steering wheel and leather upholstery can get. 

Nothing is worse than burning the palms of your hand on the wheel! Installing tints for the windows of your car is a simple way to prevent that nasty burning sensation in the future. Now, if you’re relatively new to the concept of tinting your car, you’re probably wondering how to buy car windows film tint correctly.

Lucky for you, Smartfilm has listed down some of the most important do’s and don’ts when you buy car window film!

Do Know the Law

Before you start scouring the internet for recommendations on what is a good tinting film to buy or where to buy tint film for cars like yours, get to know your locality’s tinting laws and regulations. That’s right, some tinting films are simply too dark to install on your car.

In Arizona, your front windshield must be completely clear and your front side windows must let in more than 33 percent of light. Driving with darker tinting than that will earn you a ticket if you get caught and will force you to get a window tint removal. You can, however, install any tint shade on your back and rear side windows.

 

Do Buy Tint That’s High-Quality

Believe it or not, there are many different quality levels of window tint on the market. This means you’ll need to buy a car window tint film that’s able to stand up to the daily use and abuse it sees on the road. Low-grade films often bubble up and also change color after a few months, making your car look run-down with its tinting.

Window tint is an investment and you do get what you pay for. Keep in mindHigher quality films may cost more, but they’ll last longer and can also add value to your car when they’re professionally installed.

 

Do Familiarize Yourself with Warranty

All reputable tinting companies offer warranties on their products. This helps protect you from having to pay out-of-pocket to repair film that had a flaw from the production process. Before you invest in the tinting film, get to know the warranty offered by each manufacturer you’re considering.

Choose a brand that stands behind their products. Remember, not all warranties are alike and you’ll need to compare the terms of each one to find the right film for your car.

 

Do Think About How You Use Your Window Film

Window tint film is made of different materials and some materials can interfere with the signals you get inside the car. For example, metallic tint can make it hard for satellite radio systems and also cell phones to receive a clear signal. This means the answer to “what is a good car tint film to buy” will be different from person to person.

Think about how you use your car and the types of technology you rely on. Look for films that will accommodate those devices without creating interference that will hurt your driving experience.

 

Do Install It Correctly

There are dozens of tutorials and DIY window tinting kits available online. But that doesn’t mean you should try to install the tint yourself. In fact, doing so can void the manufacturer’s warranty and end up doing damage to your car’s glass.

When in doubt, have a plan to get the window tint film installed by a professional. They’ll even be able to order the film for you so you’ll never have to worry about ordering the wrong type for your ride.

 

Don’t Buy Online

As a general rule, never buy car window tint films online. Sure, online retailers like Amazon may have extremely cheap prices, but there’s no way to guarantee that you’re getting the high-quality film you’re looking for. Often, you’ll end up getting a poorly made film that has no business getting installed on your window glass.

If you’re looking for where to buy tint film for cars, save yourself the trouble and head to your local tint shop. If you’re determined to buy the film online, try to order the materials directly from the manufacturer.

 

Don’t Try to Install the Film Yourself

Films may seem simple to install, but it’s not as easy as it looks. You have to measure each window correctly, cut the film to the right dimensions, and prep the glass the right way. If you don’t, the tinting film won’t stick to the glass properly and could create air bubbles.

Always let an experienced professional install the film for you. This will spare you the headache of bubbling and peeling in the film and helps preserve the manufacturer’s warranty for years to come.

 

Installing Window Film Is a Huge Upgrade For Windows

The right film is a wonderful way to improve your driving experience and keep your car’s interior in great shape. Just remember these do’s and don’ts before you order your film.

SmartFilm proudly serves drivers in the Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and Scottsdale areas.