When it comes to tinting the windows of your car, one of the most important factors to consider is the tint percentage, also known as VLT (Visible Light Transmission). The tint percentage refers to the amount of light that can pass through the tinted film – the lower the percentage, the darker the tint. Choosing the right tint percentage is crucial to find the right balance between style, performance, and legality. In this article, we will examine the pros and cons of different tint percentages to help determine the best option for your needs.
What is Tint Percentage/VLT?
The tint percentage or VLT refers to the amount of visible light that can pass through tinted windows. Here’s a quick overview:
- 50% tint – Allows 50% of light to be transmitted through the tint
- 35% tint – Allows 35% of light transmission
- 20% tint – Allows 20% of light transmission
- 5% tint – Allows 5% of light transmission
The lower the percentage, the darker the tint will be. For reference, untinted factory glass usually transmits around 70-75% of light.
Tint Percentage Laws by State
Tint percentage laws vary widely by state. Here is a general overview of the limits:
| State | Allowed Light Transmission % |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 32% |
| Alaska | 35% |
| Arizona | 33% |
| Arkansas | 35% |
| California | 70% |
| Colorado | 27% |
Be sure to check your local laws before getting any tint installed. Having tint that is too dark can result in fines or requiring removal of the film.
Pros and Cons of Light/Medium Tint (50-35%)
Light to medium tint percentages like 50%, 45%, 40%, and 35% offer some nice benefits:
Pros:
- Allows good visibility out the windows at night
- Reduces glare and eye fatigue during the day
- Keeps the interior cooler in summer
- Typically legal for front side windows
- Provides some privacy and security
Cons:
- Doesn’t block as much UV radiation
- Less heat rejection compared to darker tints
- Doesn’t offer as much privacy as darker tints
This range is ideal if you prioritize visibility and compliance with tint laws. The light reduction helps with glare and keeps the car moderately cooler.
Pros and Cons of Dark Tint (20-5%)
Dark tint percentages like 20%, 15%, 10%, and 5% offer these benefits:
Pros:
- Greatly reduces glare, eye strain, and UV rays
- Provides excellent heat rejection and cooling
- Gives high levels of privacy
- Very stylish/custom look
Cons:
- Reduced night time visibility and safety
- Often illegal for front side windows
- Higher risk of fines and ticketing
- Can make car interiors very dark
The incredibly dark tint is great for blocking sunlight and heat as well as providing privacy. But the tradeoff is you sacrifice visibility and legal compliance in most areas.
Recommended Tint Percentages by Window
Here are the tint percentages we recommend by window:
| Window | Recommended Tint % |
|---|---|
| Windshield | 70% (Clear or non-reflective tint) |
| Front Side Windows | 35% |
| Rear Side Windows | 20% |
| Rear Window | 5% |
The windshield should be kept clear or with a light tint (70% VLT) for visibility and legality. On side windows, we recommend going with a 35% tint for the front which is street legal but still provides good heat and glare protection. The rear sides and back can be as dark as 20% and 5% for style, privacy, and heat rejection. But check your state laws first!
What Percentage is Best for Heat Rejection?
For maximum heat rejection, the lowest legal tint percentage will perform best. By absorbing and blocking the solar radiation, darker tinted windows reduce heat buildup inside your car. Here’s how the different levels compare:
| Tint Percentage | Heat Rejection % |
|---|---|
| 50% | 57% |
| 35% | 66% |
| 20% | 79% |
| 5% | 95% |
As you can see, 20% dye-based film rejects up to 79% of solar heat, while a 5% tint blocks as much as 95%! But it depends on your climate and regulations.
What is the Best Tint Color?
Window tint comes in a variety of colors, each with their own advantages:
- Charcoal – Most popular. Provides a smoke-like appearance.
- Black – Completely blacks out windows for style/privacy.
- Gray – More subtle, matches light-colored vehicles.
- Silver – Reflective, helps with heat rejection.
Charcoal is the most common choice and works on any car. Black gives a high-contrast look. Gray is great for blending on light paint. Silver is the best for keeping interiors cool but is reflective.
Should You Get a Reflective Tint?
Reflective tints include metallic properties to further block solar radiation. Key advantages:
- Added heat rejection and UV protection
- Highly effective on windshields
- Subtle mirrored appearance
Potential downsides are increased reflectivity can be distracting at night, and metallic films tend to cost more. But the boosted performance can make it worthwhile for hot, sunny climates.
How Does Tint Percentage Affect Night Driving?
Lower light transmission means reduced visibility at night:
- 50% tint has minimal effect at night
- 35% tint has minor reduction in visibility
- 20% tint leads to noticeably impaired night vision
- 10% and 5% tint can make night driving difficult and dangerous
To compensate, we recommend keeping any tint to 35% or lighter on front driver/passenger windows used for forward vision at night. The rear view mirror visibility is also reduced with darker tint.
Should You Get the Maximum Allowed Tint?
Getting the darkest tint allowed by law provides maximum benefits, but also maximum risks. Key factors to consider:
- Night driving visibility impairment
- Increased chances of getting tickets/fines
- Difficulty seeing passengers through tint
- Potential theft risks if too much privacy
We recommend staying around 35% on front sides even if state laws allow darker. Only go with the maximum legal limit on rear windows where visibility is less critical. Consider your needs and conditions first.
How Does Tint Help Security and Privacy?
Dark tint makes it much harder to see inside a vehicle. Benefits include:
- Blocks prying eyes from seeing cargo or valuables
- Obscures view of passengers/driver
- Provides some protection against carjackings
- Reduces risks of vehicle contents theft
A 20% VLT tint on side windows strikes a good balance for privacy and safety. Just ensure you’re compliant with rearview mirror visibility minimums.
Should You Get Clear Tint?
Clear, non-tinted window films don’t darken windows but still provide benefits:
- Blocks up to 99% of UV rays
- Can reject around 60% of heat
- Protects interior from fading/damage
- Provides discreet added security
- Typically allows 70%+ light transmittance
On windshields and front side windows where visibility is key, clear films are an excellent option, especially paired with darker tint on rears.
Conclusion
Choosing the right VLT comes down to balancing aesthetics, performance, legality, and visibility needs. We recommend lighter tints like 35% for front driver and passenger windows to maintain visibility and comply with laws. For rear windows, a darker 5-20% tint gives you privacy, heat rejection, and a custom look while allowing rear visibility. Match the tint percentages to your state regulations for the best results. With the right formulations and proper installation, tinted windows can keep your car cool and comfortable while protecting occupants and your privacy for years to come.
