There are many different modifications you can make to enhance your vehicle. These modifications range from improving your vehicle’s suspension to choosing special paint or colors for the exterior. One of the most common enhancements that people do to a vehicle is window tinting.
Window tinting provides many benefits. It helps reduce sun glare when driving and keeps the car cooler when used or parked. Some tinting can even add more privacy to the vehicle. Window tinting has also been very helpful in reducing fading of your interior upholstery and dashboard area from direct sunlight. Some manufacturers have even started including some windshield tinting to help reduce the cracking of the plastic used on the dashboards.
Cost of Tinting Vehicle Windows
Tinting your car windows will cost between $100 and $500, depending on a few factors. If you are a DIY person, the tinting costs will be right around the $100 mark. However, you may not be pleased with the results if you do not have all the professional equipment needed for this installation, or the skill.
DIY tinting jobs can detract from your vehicle’s value and appearance. While the tinting can be removed, a potential buyer may not want to go through the effort of removing the tint or replacing it with a professional installation.
Professional tinting will cost between $200 and $500 dollars. This will depend on the size of your vehicle, the number of windows tinted, and the tint type.
Tinting and Car Value
Tinting will not have a significant monetary impact on the value of reselling your car. Other modifications, like those to the engine, transmission suspension, or physical body of the vehicle, are the types of modifications that can impact car value. Mileage, maintenance records, and if the car has been in an accident can also significantly impact car resale value.
However, the value of tinting may value from person to person.
If you live in a state with high temperatures and lots of sunshine, tinted windows may be an attractive selling point for potential buyers. Tinting can greatly reduce sun glare and cabin heat during the day which keeps a car cooler when parked. On the other hand, tinting may not present value to a potential buyer if you live in a colder climate without a lot of bright sunshine. The time of year you sell your vehicle may also determine whether the window tinting is attractive to the buyer. Suring spring and summer, window tinting may be a great selling point. In fall and winter, it may not make that much of an impact.
Personal preference can also impact the value of window tinting. If someone really likes how the tinting looks, it can add value to your vehicle. If the person does not like the tinting, they could walk away from the purchase.
State laws may also impact the value of tinting. If you live in a state that has laws about tinting, it may deter buyers. No one wants to give the police a reason to pull them over, especially for something as simple as tinted windows.
If you live in an area where you cross over to other states on a regular basis, make sure you are well versed on their tinting laws.
Tinting laws will vary and may speak to the coverage area of the front windshield, the darkness of the tint, the policy on side windows and the darkness of the back window. This is also why it is easier to take your vehicle to a professional to have the windows tinted. They are familiar with the laws concerning their industry and can help you make the right choice for your vehicle.
Should I Tint My Windows?
If you purchase a vehicle and want tinted windows and it is legal in your state you should get them. It is that simple. If done correctly, tinting the windows will probably not affect from the monetary value of your vehicle. Plus there are other benefits as well.
If you are worried about the quality of the window tinting, have it professionally done. Reputable professionals have the experience and tools to make your windows look great and ensure compliance with local laws.
When Purchasing A Vehicle
Always remember to run a VINsmart report on any used vehicle before making a purchase. A VINsmart report runs a complete history on the vehicle including whether it has ever been reported as stolen, involved in a major accident, or listed as a totaled vehicle.
VINsmart reports will also give you a registration history and mileage at registration. It reports any significant incidents related to the vehicle, such as being involved in a fire or flood.
When you purchase a used vehicle, the best way to ensure you make a good purchase is to know the vehicle’s complete history.
