When you drive around town, it’s hard not to notice that the windows of some cars are so darkened that it’s difficult to determine whether anyone is in them. Window tinting is not just for looks but also for security and privacy, and it has become a very popular automotive enhancement. Tinting also offers practical benefits that improve your driving experience and protect your vehicle.
At Mike White Ford in North Idaho, most of our stock vehicles come from the factory with minimal tinting—usually around 70% VLT (Visible Light Transmission), meaning 70% of light can penetrate the windows. However, our trucks, including the ever-popular F-150, usually come stock with darkened back and sometimes rear windows at about 25% VLT. Factory window tinting is incorporated into the window glass during the fabrication process; however, just because your vehicle does not come stock with window tinting, it does not mean you can’t get that tinted look.
Window tinting is an aftermarket accessory that can easily be added to any vehicle. It is achieved by applying a very thin layer of tinting film to a clean window. Although vehicle owners can DIY this project, professional window tinting companies usually have the tools and expertise to do a superior job without bubbles or tears that will fit perfectly for each window and endure normal wear and tear. Unfortunately, DIY jobs can look bad or degrade quickly if you don’t have the experience or know-how to do it correctly.
Key Benefits of Window Tinting
In addition to aesthetic benefits, especially for those trying to achieve a sportier look for their cars, window tinting can provide several practical advantages:
1. Comprehensive UV Protection
High-quality window tinting film can block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, providing critical protection for passengers and your vehicle’s interior upholstery, carpeting, and dash. This protection helps prevent:
- Skin damage and attendant potential long-term health risks
- Interior fading of upholstery, carpet, and dash materials
- Cracking and deterioration of the dashboard and upholstery, especially leather
2. Effective Heat Reduction
Tinted windows are a game-changer for temperature control inside your vehicle. By significantly reducing heat buildup, they:
- Create a more comfortable driving environment
- Decrease reliance on air conditioning
- Improve overall fuel efficiency
- Protect sensitive electronic devices from heat damage
- Keep your interior air and seat surfaces cooler after the vehicle is left in direct sunlight
3. Enhanced Driving Safety
Glare reduction is also enhanced with window tinting. By minimizing harsh sunlight and headlight glare, tinted windows:
- Improve visibility in challenging light conditions
- Reduce eye strain during long drives
- Contribute to safer driving experiences
4. Privacy and Security
Darker window tints offer an added layer of personal security by:
- Providing visual privacy for vehicle occupants
- Concealing valuable items from potential thieves
Navigating Idaho’s Window Tinting Regulations
As much as you may want to customize your vehicle, you need to be aware that every state regulates window tinting to prevent tinting that can impair the driver’s visibility. In addition, that privacy you may desire can also inhibit law enforcement officers from seeing into a vehicle and assessing potential danger. Consequently, tinting regulations must be researched before you spend money on an expensive tinting job. Most regulations distinguish between windshields, front side windows, back side windows, and rear windows.
The following summarizes the tinting laws in Idaho; however, always be sure to verify what current law requires for your particular vehicle if you decide to apply window tinting:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is permitted only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 (American Standard) line or within the top 6 inches of the windshield (many vehicles come stock with tinting in this part of the windshield).
- Front Side Windows: Tinting film must allow at least 35% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows and Rear Windows: Tinting film must allow at least 20% of light to pass through.
For SUVs and vans, any darkness level down to 3% is permitted in the rear, so long as the vehicle has dual side mirrors. The maximum reflectivity allowed for all window tinting is 35%.
Make Your Ford an Extension of You
Window tinting offers an attractive combination of protection, comfort, and style, transforming your driving experience so that your vehicle reflects your personal flair. Mike White Ford offers a wide variety of Ford makes and models in different colors and packages, but customizing your vehicle with additional modifications like window tinting can take personalization to the next level.
If you are interested in exploring a sleek new ride that expresses your sense of style, contact one of the Mike White Ford showrooms in Coeur d’Alene or Sandpoint today. Our team is ready to show you all we have to offer.