I'm thinking about getting my windows tinted and wanted some general information from those with experience -

35% is the legal limit in MA and looks pretty good from what I've seen in pictures. Is that a good % to go with? As far as tinting in general, are there any drawbacks? I know I need to be careful with the TL and should go with some kind of moleskin or felt to avoid scratches but is there anything else? Does tint affect peripheral vision or when backing up at night?

I don't have NAV so I don't think I need to worry about metallic vs. non-metallic tint, correct? Any suggested brands/types?

Do shops take into account that the stock windows are already tinted 75%? If I get 35%, that is 35% of the 75% so would that then be under the legal limit or does it come out to be 35% when all is said and one?

Thanks in advance for any info/advice.

 

Anyone? Bueller...? Bueller...?

 

I have 35% and I like it.

You will need moleskin to avoid scratches (unless you never open your windows). I have some trouble backing up when there are no street lights (i.e. some streets in Yonkers when I visit my cousins...but I just lower my windows for those occasions). No other issues with the tinting.

I think putting 35% will put you a bit over the legal limit. I doubt you would have issues with the cops with this...considering it is so close to the legal limit (however, this is just my opinion).

 

Thanks for the reply, Poocha. Just saw this thread - https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=135290 - someone reporting they failed inspection in MA because of the 35% over the 75% so that's something I'm going to have to consider...

 

Yep that's me. The weird thing is last year I had my inspection done at the same place I went to this year, and it passed last year and this year it didn't. I guess it's hit or miss on who you get (either an anal person or someone more leanant). I could have gone to another place and try my luck there. But my tint was scratched anyway so I pulled it off and had it re-tinted and moleskin installed, re-tinting under tinters warranty.

 

Legion.....this is too funny....I have been looking into the tinting thing as well and you just asked most of the questions I would have asked.

35% is the legal limit in CT and I did see a thread calculating the total percentage if 35% film was used on a TL which has OEM tint of 75% I read.

Of course in CT we have no inspections...

 

i'm from boston and I have 35% on my TL with Nav. I didn't get the moleskin installed and I have no issues whatsoever. It's been over 2 months now and there are no scratches.

I can't comment on the inspection, but I know my shop will pass me. I generally have no issues with peripheral vision at night and can see everything fine.

Erik

 

If you get someone cool it's probably not an issue but I'd hate to go through the hassle of not passing and having to pull it off...

Did you go with the 35% again or did you go lighter this time? Where did you go? Thanks.

 

Got a recommendation on where to go? Thanks.

 

Glad I could save you the typing then, Adamo...

I read that thread earlier - 26.25% net (by the numbers) and actually closer to 29% when tested...

 

Auto Toys in Randolph (formally known as MHL Car and Audio) $250 will get you a lifetime warranty! I've used them for all of my cars.

Erik

 

When I have looked at pics of cars on here that are tinted...it looks like some have had the windshield tinted as well. Is that true or am I seeing things ? Is that even legal to do ? In Connecticut, I don't think they let you tint the windshield. So I am thinking....will it look dumb to have all the other glass tinted ?

 

there are a few on here that have the windshield tinted. one of them has a doctors perscriotion. the others are taking there chances. and no not having the front does not look funny. it still looks 100X better than no tint at all.

 

Hey Rpappi.....I see that most people use a 35% for tinting. But since the TL already has 75% in the glass do you think that using a 50% tint would look good enough ? Or would it hardly be noticeable ?

 

I want to go with 40% or 45% but sometimes it looks too light but i dont want 35%. Anyone know any place in the SF bay area that carries Huper Optik?