Window Tint Question
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Window Tint Question
I've always tinted the front side windows of my trucks to match the factory tint on the rears and am looking to do the same on my new Supercrew.
However, it's been a few years since I've had this done, and I've been doing some research into the latest and greatest in tint films. Boy have things changed. Apparently, most premium tints are now metallized which can supposedly cause interference with nav and sound (satellite) systems, Bluetooth, etc. The apparent solution, according to the installers, is even more expensive (approx twice as much) tint film using ceramic coatings.
My question is for those who have had their front windows done. Did the installer use a metallized film? And did you notice any degradation in electronic device performance?
I'm a little perplexed as to why tint manufacturers would produce so called "premium" automotive films that may interfere with sophisticated electronics when they are so commonplace these days.
However, it's been a few years since I've had this done, and I've been doing some research into the latest and greatest in tint films. Boy have things changed. Apparently, most premium tints are now metallized which can supposedly cause interference with nav and sound (satellite) systems, Bluetooth, etc. The apparent solution, according to the installers, is even more expensive (approx twice as much) tint film using ceramic coatings.
My question is for those who have had their front windows done. Did the installer use a metallized film? And did you notice any degradation in electronic device performance?
I'm a little perplexed as to why tint manufacturers would produce so called "premium" automotive films that may interfere with sophisticated electronics when they are so commonplace these days.
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From: Louisiana
I just had my windows tinted last week with the ceramic film. I've already noticed a huge difference in how the ceramic rejects the heat compared to the traditional films I've had in the past. In my opinion, window tint is an absolute must in the Deep South.
I usually just get the two front windows matched to the back, but this time I had them put a ceramic layer of 60% on the back because the factory tint doesn't reject any heat, it's simply for privacy. I also had them put the strip over the top of my windshield. My front windows are 30%, and they pretty much match the back now.
I'm very pleased with the ceramic so far. I think it was worth the extra cost.
I usually just get the two front windows matched to the back, but this time I had them put a ceramic layer of 60% on the back because the factory tint doesn't reject any heat, it's simply for privacy. I also had them put the strip over the top of my windshield. My front windows are 30%, and they pretty much match the back now.
I'm very pleased with the ceramic so far. I think it was worth the extra cost.
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According to my paperwork, my tint film is Llumar ATR which is a metallized film. Like I said, it's only been a day, but I haven't noticed anything yet. In my very unscientific test, my phone service bars were not affected by standing next to the truck vs being inside with the windows up.
I honestly can't imagine this could have any effect on the truck's electronics as the antennas are on the outside. As for personal devices, I have the panoramic roof so likewise I can't imagine it being an issue. I'll keep an eye on it though and report back if I notice anything weird.
I honestly can't imagine this could have any effect on the truck's electronics as the antennas are on the outside. As for personal devices, I have the panoramic roof so likewise I can't imagine it being an issue. I'll keep an eye on it though and report back if I notice anything weird.
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I honestly can't imagine this could have any effect on the truck's electronics as the antennas are on the outside. As for personal devices, I have the panoramic roof so likewise I can't imagine it being an issue. I'll keep an eye on it though and report back if I notice anything weird.
Being a total cynic, I'm half inclined to believe that this may be overblown and is aimed at convincing someone to invest in the pricier ceramic....or maybe not? Perhaps it only becomes an issue with personal devices and only if all the windows have the film applied?
Anyway, please let me/us know if you notice anything. Thanks!
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From: Louisiana
That demonstration is what sold me on the ceramic tint. I could tell right away how much better the ceramic tint was.
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I haven't seen that display, but according to the Llumar test results from an online retailer, the metallized and ceramic tints performed nearly identical in total energy reduction, and it was only about 8-10% better energy rejection than the dyed film.
Is said display showing the difference between dyed film and ceramic, or is it ceramic vs no tint?
Is said display showing the difference between dyed film and ceramic, or is it ceramic vs no tint?
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Cargo Master
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The heat lamp test is deceiving because you are blocking infrared heat in a very small range. Total solar heat reduction is the best number to use. When doing my research I could not find any standard for this measurement so I used it mare as a guideline.
I did my entire windshield with 3M crystalline 70 and my front doors with 3Ms dyed film at 35. It makes a noticeable difference in cabin temperature while driving.
I had metallic on a different vehicle, it did impact cell phone signals when I was in remote areas. The biggest problem I had was my EZPass and radar detector did not work as well.
I did my entire windshield with 3M crystalline 70 and my front doors with 3Ms dyed film at 35. It makes a noticeable difference in cabin temperature while driving.
I had metallic on a different vehicle, it did impact cell phone signals when I was in remote areas. The biggest problem I had was my EZPass and radar detector did not work as well.
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