Would like information on auto window tinting (Brandon: sales, inspection)

[meandthee]

As I am new to the area, I am interested in learning the best type of tint to get for good cooling effect and the best places to go. Thanks so much ( I live in the Lithia area, but anywhere good is fine).

[BucFan]

I used the Toyota dealership in Brandon for mine. Took them about an hour or maybe two. These folks do all the new car sales as well. Lifetime guarantee. Think it cost me somewhere between $100-200. They only do tinting in accordance with Florida laws. I can tell a dramatic effect. I drive a black car and thought this summer would be way too hot for a black car but the tint has helped a lot. I know people who have had the tint too dark (and illegal) and you can't see the drivers' profile whatsoever and at night it seems way too dark - so be careful how dark you get it (besides, you could possibly get ticketed).

[Sunshinecc]

I bought a car once that did not pass inspection because the window tinting that was on it from the previous owner was too dark. Let me tell you what a pain it was to scrape it all off!! So I would definitely make sure it's legal.

[craigtnelson]

There is no tint that provides a "cooling effect," just ones that provide a less intensely hot effect.

I've had solar guard, and now suntek. Both work well.

[meandthee]

Thank you all! BucFan, as I live close to Brandon I will call Toyota so thanks a lot. I don't want to be illegal either. Did they do all of the windows ? I have a black car too and was thinking that maybe I would want the tint to come down a few inches on the top of the front windshield (maybe 6") would that make sense?

[HWTechGuy]

I have the top of my windshield tinted, I bought the car that way. I think it helps when you are driving towards the sun. In my company car (without the tint) with the visors down I still get blinded by what still gets through in the space around the rearview mirror.

[BucFan]

Originally Posted by meandthee

Thank you all! BucFan, as I live close to Brandon I will call Toyota so thanks a lot. I don't want to be illegal either. Did they do all of the windows ? I have a black car too and was thinking that maybe I would want the tint to come down a few inches on the top of the front windshield (maybe 6") would that make sense?

I didn't do my windshield. I think it kind of looks bad, especially on new cars. But I think they do it and charge an xtra $25. My car has some kind of tint on the windshield on the top 6 inches anyway - (2012 Honda Civic).

[Spring Hillian]

There are lots of window tinting shops around. Some will come and do it in your driveway.
It should run no more than $150.00 for 5 windows (back too) and a strip for the windshield.
Nobody will use the illegal dark material unless you insist on it. There are several manufacturers of the material out there. Just go name brand and you should be fine. It will last many years. Don't do it yourself. You will eventually wind up with a bubble effect. The tinting most surely will keep you from getting a sun tan on your left side. Get a foil sun shield for your windshield and use it. They are inexpensive. You then will be able to get into a cooler car, it will protect your dashboard and your seat coverings. Don't bother with cardboard sun shield.

[D-R-B]

Look for a shop that uses LLUMAR brand film......best you can get.

[Spring Hillian]

Yes. That is a good one.

Originally Posted by D-R-B

Look for a shop that uses LLUMAR brand film......best you can get.