Window Tint Misconceptions

Expert Advice about Auto Window Tinting

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Misconception #1: You can do it yourself.

Yes and No.. If you have a steady hand, a good eye, a large amount of patience, a relatively dust free environment, a variety of razor sharp cutting knives, a heat gun and a liberal amount of film to practice with until you get it right, the answer is yes.

Misconception #2: The only reason to have your windows tinted is to keep your car cooler.

No. Most people have their windows tinted for a variety of reasons. Although a good quality tint will reduce a large amount of heat from entering the car, here are other benefits:

  • increased UV protection reduces fading of your car's interior
  • some owners like the increased security and feeling of privacy tinting gives them
  • others, just like the sleek, sporty look
window tinting
auto window tinting

Misconception #3: Tinting is illegal in Michigan.

No. Tinting is not illegal in Michigan; only tinting on certain windows is illegal. The Michigan Motor Vehicle Code has a law, which states that any aftermarket tinting further down than 4 inches from the top of the window, on the windshield, or the front roll-down windows is considered illegal. The law does not address the rear or the rear side windows, except to state that "reflective" tint (the tint that looks shiny like tinfoil) is not to be used on automobiles.

Misconception #4: All tinters and tint companies are the same.

No. The best material in the world won't make up for a poor installation by an inexperienced installer. However, a seasoned installer can do a pretty decent job using poor quality film and you won't notice the difference right away. Most people have found they've gotten the best results hiring a company that has been around for more than a year or two. Companies with good reputations in the marketplace are happy to show you their warranty as well as their work. Most employ experienced tinting technicians, ones that have tinted literally hundreds if not thousands of vehicles, prior to tinting yours.

Misconception #5: The film you can buy at your local auto parts or discount store is just as good as the material most professional tinting shops use.

Maybe. It really depends what you buy. If it's a commercial grade, automotive scratch resistant film, offering good UV resistance and has an excellent adhesive with a good warranty, the answer is yes. Most however, are not.

Misconception #6: The company that gives you the lowest price is the one you should hire.

No. Quite often, problems arise from the lowest bid companies. The two most common problems are:

  • The price may not be for a high quality commercial grade of automotive tint film. The company may have given you a low price to get you in and then use an inexpensive, low quality grade of tinting film (usually without you knowing and without a warranty) on your car.
  • The price you see advertised may not be the price you pay. Many people have learned that the low price they saw advertised lasted only until they arrived at the window tinting company. They were pressured into paying a lot more for a variety of add-ons. Some tinters even break the law by using a variety of bait and switch tactics.
classic window tinting
Auto One window tinting

Misconception #7: A warranty is not important for a good job.

False. A reputable company afraid to stand behind its products. Be wary of any tint company that won't include a written window tinting warranty on the performance of the film itself. Review it carefully before you decide who will tint your car. Steer clear of those who don't have one to show you. They may not be around to help you when you need it.

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