Car Window Tinting: Explained

If you are planning on tinting your car's windows, there are certain rules which you must follow in the UK.

Failing to do so can have severe consequences, including penalty notices, court summons and the dangers of driving a car with low visibility.

However, there are plenty of benefits to tinting car windows and, when done properly, it can improve the look and feel of your vehicle.

Read on and find out what car window tinting is, how it works and how to stay on the right side of the law.

 

What is Car Window Tinting?

Tinting car windows involves applying a thin laminate film to the vehicle’s glass, which darkens it.

You can technically tint every window on your car but must stay within the legal limits if you choose to do so.

 

 

How Does It Work?

The film that is applied to the inside of a vehicle’s windows can be made from a range of materials, like carbon or ceramic.

A window tinting specialist can apply this film to the inside of the glass to stop it from peeling.

 

Window Tinting Advantages and Disadvantages

Many people opt to tint their car windows for the visual aesthetic.

Tinting your car windows can give you added privacy and reduce the UV rays that enter your vehicle, helping to keep it cool in the summer.

This can help to protect you from skin damage and protect your car interior from fading.

Certain tints even provide some glass shatter protection.

Window tinting can also reduce sun glare, improving visibility for the driver.

If you choose to have security window film installed, this can protect against glass breakage in the event of theft or collision.

Shatterproof window film is also available, which can protect against glass shards in the event of a crash.

On the downside, window tinting can make it more difficult to see in low light, as the level of light passing through the glass is reduced.

 

Car Window Tinting Rules (UK)

The rules for tinted front side windows and tinted front windscreens depend on when the vehicle was first used.

These rules concern the percentage of visible light transmission your tinted windows must have.

There are no rules for tinting the rear passenger windows or rear windscreen.

 

Vehicles First Used on 1st April 1985 or Later

For vehicles used on or after the 1^st April 1985, the front windscreen must let a minimum of 75% of light through.

The front side windows must let a minimum of 70% of light through.

 

Vehicles First Used Before 1st April 1985

For vehicles first used before 1^st April 1985, the front windscreen and front side windows must both let a minimum of 70% of light through.

 

Are Tinted Windows Legal?

Tinted car windows are legal in the UK, provided your tinted windows meet the light transmission rules required depending on when your vehicle was first used.

You must not drive with excessively tinted side or front windows, as this can make your car illegal.

 

What Are the Penalties for Tinting Car Windows Incorrectly?

It is illegal to fit or sell glass – or a vehicle already fitted with glass – that breaks the tinted window rules.

Both the police and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) can use light measuring equipment to measure the tint of your windows.

If not enough light passes through your front windscreen or side windows, you may receive a prohibition notice that stops you from using your vehicle on the road until the tint is removed.

You may also receive a penalty notice or even a court summons for having wrongly or excessively tinted windows, so make sure the job is done properly.

We would recommend choosing a licensed bodyshop to tint your car's windows as they will know the rules and provide a high-quality finish that's still legal to drive.

 

Are Tinted Windows Checked on an MOT?

During an MOT test – for cars and passenger vehicles - your windscreen and windows on either side of the driver’s seat will be checked for excessive tinting or discolouration.

MOT failure that is the result of tinting or discolouration will only be justified if the driver’s view of the road ahead is significantly impacted.

 

Does Window Tinting Void Car Insurance?

If you have your windows tinted – legally or illegally – you must tell your insurer.

As car window tinting counts as a modification, your insurer will likely argue that this alters the risk profile of your car and you as a driver.

Whether this has an impact on the price you pay or not, your insurer will want to reassess your premium.

As with other modifications, if you have an accident and there’s something you haven’t told them about, insurers may refuse to pay out.

 

How Much is Car Window Tinting?

Car window tinting costs vary across the UK, costing anywhere from £50 to upwards of £250.

The cost of window tinting can vary depending on the level of tint and the size of your car.

If the car is big with complicated glass areas and you want the best finish, you could end up paying more than £1,000.

Though you can buy a kit and do this yourself, for the best results – and to ensure you comply with the law - you should trust a professional.

 

How Long Do Tinted Windows Last?

If you have your windows professionally tinted, this can last around 10 years.

This will depend on the quality and type of tint used.

 

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