How to Pick the Perfect Auto Window Film for Your Vehicle

You've got plenty of factors to consider when researching auto window film for your vehicle. Get insights to help you pick the best option in this guide!

Here's a stat that might surprise you: in 2022 alone, an estimated 351 million vehicles were on the road, just in North America. If you have a sports car, then you're part of the 1.5% that make up the total US car market. 

No matter what type of vehicle you drive, you're probably considering auto window film. Not only does window tint add that extra oomph to your sports car, but it provides added benefits such as protecting you from harmful UV rays while increasing privacy within your vehicle. 

If you've seen vehicles with varying degrees of automotive tint, you're probably wondering which window tint percentage is best for you. Luckily, this guide has you covered, so be sure to keep reading.

Benefits of Auto Window Film

Before choosing the best tint for your ride, it's best to understand why you need tinting services. 

First off, window tint can protect you- and your vehicle's interior- from harmful UV rays. UV rays can damage your skin and your upholstery. In fact, window tint film can block upwards of 99% of UV rays.

Auto window tint can also serve as a safety feature in the event of an accident, holding the glass together and stopping shards of glass from harming you or your passengers. 

Surprisingly, window tint helps your gas mileage during warm months. And with gas prices steadily increasing with no end in sight, everyone can benefit from fuel efficiency. Window tint works to keep your car cool, reducing the amount of air conditioning needed, something that contributes to your overall fuel consumption. 

Tint Laws

The first contributing factor to the type of window tint you get is tint laws. This varies from state to state and will ultimately decide what percentage you can reasonably get away with. 

Most states allow some percentage of tint on your front windows, although certain states forbid it. These states include New Hampshire, New Jersey, and Vermont. If you're unsure of your state's specific tint laws, you can check here. In general, most states allow for some level of window tint.

All you have to decide is what looks best for your vehicle while following state guidelines!

Consider Your Needs

When choosing tint, you need to consider why you want tint.

Are you looking to block UV rays? If so, opt for a translucent tint with a window tint percentage of at least 50%. 

If privacy is key, the darker the window tint percentage, the better. 

However, if you're susceptible to light-induced headaches, you may want a lighter percentage tint. This way you'll benefit from reduced light entering your vehicle without darkening your windows too much. 

Your Vehicle's Appearance

The type of vehicle you have will also play a big role in the type of window tint you get. If you're looking to tint your car for aesthetic reasons, giving it that sleek, stylish look, then opt for tint percentages around 35%.

This still gives you the smooth look that accompanies tinted windows without reducing visibility. 

Remember that vehicles with a dark interior will cause the tint you choose to appear darker. The tint will look closer to its actual color if your vehicle has a light interior. 

Tint percentage laws also vary from front to back windows. You can opt for the same tint across your entire vehicle for a uniform look, or go with the tint percentages approved by your state. The tint percentage you choose hinges on the aesthetic you're going for. 

Tinting Below 20%

Depending on state laws, you can opt for window tint that's 20% and below. This provides privacy so people can't see into your car while driving (and equally difficult when close to your vehicle).

This is especially important if you're looking to deter criminals from breaking into your car. They can't steal what they can't see, and tint is a deterrent. 

Most states won't allow you to tint below 5%, considering it illegal. When the tint is too dark, it's often a safety hazard. This type of tint is usually reserved for limousines. 

Film Quality

Remember that tint percentage isn't everything; the quality of the window tint film you choose plays an integral role. High-quality film lasts longer and looks better. While DIY projects have a time and a place, your vehicle's windows aren't something you want to tint yourself. 

A qualified auto tint installer will give you a free estimate while walking you through the window tinting process, and help you choose the best tint for your vehicle. It's important to note that inexpensive tints need replacing sooner, costing you more money in the long run. 

If you've ever seen a tinted vehicle with bubbles in the film, you can assume they did the tint job themselves. Avoid this blunder and leave window tinting to the pros. 

Choosing the Best Auto Window Film

No matter what type of vehicle you drive, then the perfect auto window film is out there. Consider why you want to tint your windows before choosing a percentage and choose a tint based on those needs. 

If you're looking for privacy, darker tints are best. If you're looking to stave off the sun's UV rays, tints around 50% should do the trick. 

For more information about window tint, contact Unique Films Tint & Detail Center. We've got the skills and the experience to tint any vehicle, giving you the sleek and stylish look you've been dreaming of. We also specialize in detailing, so reach out to us today.