im looking to get my cars windows tinted and am always looking to save a buck whenever i can. ive seen the custom cutout kits that are vehicle specific and am wondering if i can do this myself? i just dont want the bubble tint like i see rolling around sometime.
anyone tint their own windows?
- Thread starter turbomazda
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If you don't have any prior experience in a related field, I'd suggest having someone else do it. I worked with vinyl graphics for two years prior to doing my windows, and I still had some issues. First off - you need to apply LOTS of application fluid. It's best to get actual application fluid, not soapy water. Second - find a place with little to no dust. This was my problem; I have small dust particles trapped between the film and the glass, which you can see if you squint at the window. It shows up as little bubbles maybe a millimeter in diameter. Third - use a soft squeegee, not a hard one, and use excessive force. Heating up the film helps too.
ask darkdan. he is a window tinting pro who can give you some sound advice. he is on the f150.net website also. it is probably easier to get him there than here.
chad
chad
Not personally but I've seen it done by a beginner. Looked OK at first but not perfect by far and only got worse(bubbles). I don't know how much care was taken or how it was applied, to be fair.
2 key points I've heard besides applying in a clean environment/squeegee are not to open the windows for a couple days and not use the rear defrost for a couple days.
Good luck whichever route you take.
2 key points I've heard besides applying in a clean environment/squeegee are not to open the windows for a couple days and not use the rear defrost for a couple days.
Good luck whichever route you take.
I paid to have mine done. Both on my previous car and my present one. The present car I need to have checked if I can get it re done, as after seven years the tint is drying out and looks like you sneezed on it. The only reason we don't get the Impala's windows done (My eyes can't handle alot of bright light so I mainly drive the '00 cavalier.) is because of the radio antenna being integrated in the rear window, and could hinder reception by any possible metal particles in the tint. I'd have to see the installer and see if the brand he uses has particles in it (via the internet).
There are different qualities of film. The stuff at the local auto parts store is not worth the effort.
Look in the classifieds of Auto Trader or something. Lots of mobile guys that will come to your house and do it real cheap.
You need to razor blade the entire window to get it clean, then there are the hassles of the curvature of the window. Just a big pain.
Look in the classifieds of Auto Trader or something. Lots of mobile guys that will come to your house and do it real cheap.
You need to razor blade the entire window to get it clean, then there are the hassles of the curvature of the window. Just a big pain.
thanks, i just looked at craigslist and found a few guys that will do it at pretty reasonable rates.
I've tinted a few cars. The only tint I ever used was from NAPA. It worked well. You just need to make sure the area is clean, be patient, and have a good blade. Side windows are easy. It's the hatchback or large rear windows that are the real pain. We opted for a huge bottle of Windex, but I've heard of people using soap & water.
After you're done, don't move the windows down for days and if you have a rear defrost, wait at least a week.
$70 is a very competitive price. The average rate around here is $200 a car. ($150-$250 and up)
After you're done, don't move the windows down for days and if you have a rear defrost, wait at least a week.
$70 is a very competitive price. The average rate around here is $200 a car. ($150-$250 and up)
There is a dealer selling pre-cut 3M film on ebay and his feedback reflects a decent product/service.
eBaymotors.com
SS/LS
eBaymotors.com
SS/LS
The cost would be way prohibitive, so we will leave the Impala's windows alone. My other car's I mistakenly used a cleaner that ripped the tint a new one
Took it off all the windows today except the rear due to the defroster grid. I'll wait until it decides to warm up more and stay sunny to sweat the window. I'm going to just leave the windows like they are instead of re tinting them, and if/when look at another car in a couple/three years will leave those windows alone, as well. Easier to clean now without having to worry about adverse affects to the window film being gone.
I didn't know about the pre cut kits..Thanks..just purchased one for my corvette
I have tinted 3 other cars..All the jobs held up throught time..But this dang Corvette the curveture of the side window caused a crease that I could n't get out.. this will work great !
I have tinted 3 other cars..All the jobs held up throught time..But this dang Corvette the curveture of the side window caused a crease that I could n't get out.. this will work great !
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