Window Tint Percentages: What Percent Is Best for Your Car?

Window Tint Basics

Window tint is a type of vinyl material that prevents sunlight from passing through the glass, and they are categorized via their percentage. Window tinting percentages refer to the amount of life the tint on the window can screen out. 

It's like wearing a pair of sunglasses, but for your car. Here are a few points to consider for understanding window tint basics:

1. The tint darkness is determined via the visible light transmission percentage.
2. Rear side windows are the side windows behind the front side windows, including rear-seat passenger windows.
3. Front side windows are the front passenger and driver windows. Not windshield.
4. The windshield shade band is a film that extends down from the top.
5. Tint reflection is the quality of a reflective window film, usually of metallic nature.
6. AS1 line is marking from the glass manufacturer near the top sides of a windshield.
7. The first number is for cars, anything after a slash is for Vans/SUVs. No slash = same % for all cars.
8. Restricted colors refer to color tints that are forbidden in that area.



Now that we've covered the basics, let's take a look at window tinting percentages.

Window Tint Percentages

Anyway, we can safely presume that the lower your percentage, the darker the tint will be. Hence, the visibility will also be restricted, therefore certain laws will regulate how dark you can really go.



But for now, let's cover the percentages:

Factory Windows

Clear glass tint, found on regular windows. As they would be installed in a factory car.

50% Window Tint Film

50% window tint percentage blocks 50% of the light from reaching the interior of a car. It is great for blocking ultraviolet radiation and heat.

35% Window Tint Film

Indiana and Michigan cap the legal window tint at 35%, meaning only 35% of the light can go through. This is a noticeable dark tint on any vehicle.

20% Window Tint Film

Not to confuse this tint with factory windows, as both are practically untinted. However, certain windows can have a built-in tint, that will allow 20% of the light through the glass.

5% Window Tint Film

5% window tint looks like a black sheet. It only lets in 5% of the light, and if often used on limousine windows or armored vehicles.

How to Choose the Right Tint Percentage for Vehicle?

Considering, the fact that you've probably already chosen a film to use. The next step is to figure out which tint percentage you would like to have. In comparison to choosing a film, picking a shade can be more tedious. 



And the considerations that come in hand should not be taken lightly, as these are critically important to the safety of yourself, and others.

Local Regulations

As mentioned earlier, some states limit the tint percentage for vehicles. And each state has its own regulations on how dark a rear, side, or front window can be. 

For example, in Arizona - you are legally required to limit the film shades to allow no less than 33% of the light. Whereas, California limits the tint at 70%.



So when it comes to choosing a percentage, the most important thing to consider is the local law. For one, state laws take offense of dark ting for safety. Police enforcement has a harder time looking for suspects when the shade is too dark. Not to mention, a dark film can hinder your visibility, increasing the chances of accidents.

Your Ambitions

Another thing to consider is the purpose of your window tinting. Window tint does come with advantages. Not only can it protect from harmful UV rays, but it can reinforce the integrity of your window. Not to mention, improved privacy. So it's best to determine your ambitions before you go and choose a shade. 

For example, if you want to reduce UV light and keep the interior cool - you can use a tint shade of a 50% level. The films can still be clear, and block heat or UV. But if you're looking for privacy and want to block even more light, go with a darker film. 

In any case, any tint will help lower the temperature inside of your car.

Vehicle Aesthetic

Some people want a window tint because it looks cool. Others prefer the clear glass look. Before you choose a car tint, make sure you're fine with how it will look in your car.



If you want to make your car look better from the outside, a darker shade might be perfect for you. But if you want to keep the look as factory as possible, use a lighter shade.

Window Tinting Percentages Done Right

Now that you have gathered all of the necessary information about window tint percentages, you are well on your way to finding the best possible shade for you. 

Remember to keep in check with your local law regulations, unless you like getting stopped and fined for that sort of thing. Consider your personal goals with the shade in mind. And determined the match of the shade to the aesthetic of your vehicle. 

When done right, your window tint will serve you how you like without hassle and legal issues. 



If you're interested in auto window tinting, check out Window Kote of Largo to see our blogs today!.