Look around you. On the roads, streets, and freeways of San Diego County, you’re likely to see more cars with tinted windows than without. It used to be that tinting your car windows was considered a cool idea. Now it’s also considered a smart idea. At Audiosport in Escondido, the way we see it, there’s no reason not to tint your car windows.  

Need a little more information before you commit? We understand.  Take a look at our list of frequently asked questions about window tinting below.

Why should I have my car windows tinted in Escondido?

Having a tint installed on your car windows will enhance your comfort, safety, and privacy.  The tint provides added protection from harmful UV rays and regulates the levels of heat and light, which prevents glare and saves energy. In the event of glass breakage, the film will provide shatter resistance, holding the dangerous pieces of glass together and protecting those inside the car.  

What is window film that is used to tint car windows?

The film used to tint windows is a self-adhesive, multi-layer polyester film that’s applied to the interior of the glass. It comes in a variety of performance levels and shades.

What are the different levels of window tinting, and are they all legal?

Darkness of tint is measured by visible light transmission (VLT), and film percentages equate with the amount of light that’s allowed through. You can buy tints that allow in anywhere from 5% to 100% of light in. The lower the percentage, the darker the film.  Legally, in the State of California, the side windows in the back and the rear window can be tinted as dark as you like, but the front side windows must allow more than 70% of light in. On the front windshield, a non-reflective tint may be applied to the top four inches of the windshield. As far as reflectivity goes, the tint can be no more reflective than a standard window.

How long will it take to tint my car’s windows?

It will take approximately 1 to 3 hours to install window tint in a vehicle, depending on what type of vehicle it is and how many windows are being tinted. One of our professional installers will give you an estimate if you give us the specifics of your car and your tinting needs.

Do tinted windows require any special care?

When the tint is first installed, you should avoid cleaning your car windows or rolling them down for 2 to 4 days.  This is to make sure the tint is not exposed to any external stressors before it has a chance to dry. In general, it’s also important to remember to use care when exiting the car.  In some cases, when removing the seat belt, it can snap against the glass. This could cause chips in the tint. Frequent sandy or muddy conditions can also cause small bits of grit to get lodged between the inside gasket and the film. This can cause scratches.   

How will I clean my car’s windows once they’re tinted?

Wait between 2 and 4 days after your tint installation to clean the windows.  After that, it’s safe to use a soft paper towel and any ammonia-free window cleaner to wipe the inside of the windows.  Soap and water (or vinegar and water) works well, too. Just be sure you do not use cleaners with ammonia or abrasives in them.

Will window tint prevent the glass on my car from breaking?

No, the film cannot prevent the glass itself from breaking, but in the event of an accident, it can hold the broken pieces together and keep them from flying about.

Will the tint on my car windows prevent interior fading?

The tint on your car windows will block 99% of UV rays, which are the main cause of fading and deterioration. The film cannot prevent fading entirely because there are other factors that cause it, but your tinted windows will go a long way toward increasing the life of your car’s interior.

Can window film really reduce energy costs?

Yes!  Tinted windows can reduce the amount of air conditioning needed to cool the car in summer and the amount of heat needed in winter.  This saves energy, which saves you money, and that’s always a good thing.

What causes the window film to bubble and turn purple?

If you get your car windows tinted at Audiosport, they will not bubble or turn purple. We use high-quality film and adhesive that can withstand the heat that causes the cheaper stuff to bubble and change color.

Contact Audiosport in Escondido for expert window tinting at an affordable price

At Audiosport in Escondido, we’ve been tinting car windows for over two decades, and (not to toot our own horn or anything) we’re really good at it! Come in and let our experienced, professional installers enhance your driving experience with some beautiful tint on your windows. It won’t just make you look cool. It’ll make you look smart, too. We also offer great specials on car window tinting. Contact Audiosport in Escondido today by giving us a call at (760) 743-2333,