Love them or hate them, you can’t deny that tinted windows have quite an impact on the styling of any car. I’m a big fan, and in early 2014 decided to tint the windows of my Impreza.
Thanks to the chaps at O.G. Tinting here in Northamptonshire (check out their Facebook Page for frequent updates), I’d opted for a 20% tint on the rear two passenger windows and a sunstrip on the windscreen.
In hindsight, I probably should have gone slightly darker, but I’m more than satisfied with the job. Many people also tint the rear windscreen, but I’m not a fan of this – just a personal preference, I prefer a completely transparent rear view.
I’d previously used the services of this company to tint the windows of my Toyota MR2, and was thoroughly impressed. They do a hell of a job, at a decent price – £90 IIRC. And the tinted windows are guaranteed for the entirety of your ownership of the vehicle.
Obviously this is a no-skill modification for myself, but it’s worth a shoutout to the lads at O.G. Tinting for the great service. I really would recommend choosing to go visit a professional rather than attempt this on your own with DIY kits. The results will be so much better, and so much less stressful!
Legality of Tinted Windows
Like most things automotive related, there are laws to follow if you’re considering tinting your windows. Everything can be found here on the Gov.uk site, https://www.gov.uk/tinted-vehicle-window-rules, but to sum up:
- There are no rules for tinting the rear windscreen or rear passenger windows. Go as dark as you like!
- Vehicles first used on 1 April 1985 or later The front windscreen must let at least 75% of light through and the front side windows must let at least 70% of light through.
- Vehicles first used before 1 April 1985 The front windscreen and front side windows must both let at least 70% of light through.
- Tinted windows are not part of the MOT test.