anybody tried tinting their pre 97 taillights or front lights with window tint? ive seen people with other vehicles do it and it turned out pretty cool looking. has anyone on here done it with their stock lighting? how much tint would you use?

 

I have known a few people that did it before. It looks better than the spray paint method, because they are still shiney not dull. It did last for a while. I would not do it because its not legal in any state and will make your lights dim. If you get rear ended and they notice it, they may put you at fault for it.

 

Much agreed with texas guy, it will do alot more harm then good not to mention it will come off after awhile so you will have to keep repainting it. You can also get ticketed for it and it will also drastically dim your headlights.

 

Niteshades is the quick/cheap DIY way to go if you're willing to put in the effort. Saying that the "spray paint method" looks like crap and dull is quite misleading I think. If you just spray on the tint, then yes it will look like crap. However, if you clean the lenses, and sand, and tape off the extraneous parts, and clean again, etc.... i.e., if you do the prep work.... and then you apply as desired.... coat, wet sand, clean, repeat until desired darkness. After all of that, applying a good clear, then wetsanding, and then buffing with a good compound to a shine....

I guarantee if you put in that effort, it will not be dull....

That being said, the best bet is to take it to a pro and have them custom mix a clear with a touch of black (so it is still translucent) and have them prep/spray for you. Obviously this is the more expensive route, but pro quality. I've used Niteshades on several sets of tails and they have all been crystal clear and shine better than the paint after a few months. Though, I will admit that the buffing required is a pain in the *** (unless you get a good electric buffer or powerball or something like that - but even then I still prefer to finish by hand)

As far as legality goes.... well, YMMV. Might be illegal depending on your state and what exactly you cover (some people will tape off designs in the tail to leave some of the OEM look untinted). However, as always is said on car forums.... tons of stuff is illegal that is still done and talked about (lighting, lifting too much, too wide tires, noise violations, emissions violations, speeding violations...) and we all do it in some way or another

 

Your right with a great deal of prep and finishing work they could look good.

Its illegal in all states though. Besides increasing the possibility of an accident, I'm not one that wants something on the rear of my vehicle that is obviously illegal that draws attention from the authorities and increases the chances of being stopped.