I have a SCAB with rear and side rear windows already factory tinted. My question is, what level of tint should or could I get to do the front, including a sun tint bar across the top of the windshield? 20% or 35%? Tinter says 20% to match the rear windows.

 

A lot of it depends on local laws. In MA where I live, 35% is the legal limit. Personally, I did 20% on the front and like it. Its pretty damn close to match, but not quite IMO. Windshield strip usually can and should be a lot lower.

 

Had mine tinted and my tint guy said that the rear windows are actually less than 20%, but 20% would be the closest match.

 

Well, if what I read is correct, 35% is also the legal limit here in Illinois, but he said I should be fine with 20%. And the ironic thing is, he, the window tinter, is a cop. So if he says 20% is alright, then I guess I am.

 

Yes/no. Its one of those fine lines. If he, or somebody like him, were to pull you over, most likely you'd be fine. However, you never know what type of cop you'll get. Some will take you to the cleaners. My point is, the risk is on you and you should do whatever you're comfortable with. If you proceed, know what the consequences are and accept them.

 

I did 20% in front and 40% in rear.


I wasn't familiar with tint percentages so the place I got my tint from showed me some displays on other people vehicles. He suggested 20/40 so I rolled with it.


If I could do it again I'd do the rears at 30% or 35%. 40% is kinda too dark, esp backing up trailer in total darkness. Makes my rear mirror useless.

 

40% is actually lighter than 30%. The percentage is the amount of light transmission. Lower the number, the lesser the light transmission and darker the tint.

 

The risk is pretty simple - you get a "fix it" ticket and have to remove the tint. Many LEO's carry tint meters so if you get an a-hole, you could get the ticket.

My personal experience is that 35% is fine on the front windows. I would tint to the AS1 line at 5%, which is limo tint. You are adding it to act as a sunshade so the darker, the better.

 

Bear in mind that the rear and side rear windows are factory darkened, but not tinted to resist UV rays. In order to get full UV protection, they still need to be tinted.

Most tinting shops offer a deal on all 5 pieces of glass. As many have already stated, be sure to check your state regulations on anything that goes on the windshield...

 

Well I'll be damn. I thought the higher the percentages, the darker. Learned something new. Thanks


So correction to my previous post: 40% front and 20% rear.