For real - is it safe to tint roof glass and back glass?

[jpfive]

I've seen the cautions about tinting upper glass on the M3. I would like to hear real experiences of those who have had problems and those who have done so with no issues. I installed the screens right after I got the car, but now that our Florida sun is getting more direct I doubt that they will do much to reduce heat buildup in the cabin. My car is not garaged. I know this is a common thread, but I am still undecided. Believe me, I have read most of what has been posted on this subject. So, forgive me if this is beating a dead horse but I would appreciate a little more help here. Also, experiences with interior and exterior windshield films. Thanks.

 

[jpfive]

Also, while we're at it. Who has had summer experience with the cabin overheat function. I have activated mine already. Thanks again.

 

[jkoya]

My roof glass was tinted in April of last year with Xpel Prime XR Plus and I have not had an issue with it.

 

[Pharmerdav]

No issue so far. I've been told that it will reduce cabin heat exposure due to Xpel heat repulsion technology.

 

[XLR82XS]

Per my installer: Tinting the upper glass is fine just use a non-ceramic film. The properties of ceramic film absorb more heat and increase he risk of rear glass cracking. My entire car is tinted with ceramic expect the rear glass. Xpel XR prime.

(Installer/owner owns a Model 3)

 

[Judders]

No issues so far

 

[Bucfan11]

Mine has not cracked, my installer said he has seen a few that did crack. I had to sign a waiver before they installed.

 

[jjrandorin]

I have 3m Crystalline all around, on my Model 3 and have had it since December of 2018 with no issues. I DO park in a garage at home though.

 

[Bucfan11]

I have 3m Crystalline all around, on my Model 3 and have had it since December of 2018 with no issues. I DO park in a garage at home though.

That is what I have except not on windshield or roof. I live in Florida. In your opinion if I add it to the windshield and roof would it be sufficient in the Florida sun?

 

[jjrandorin]

That is what I have except not on windshield or roof. I live in Florida. In your opinion if I add it to the windshield and roof would it be sufficient in the Florida sun?

Well.. I have never lived in florida so I would defer to those who live there for that. I have 20% on front and rear windows, 1 piece on back glass, and roof. I have 70% on windshield. I combine that with a covercraft front windshield screen, and feel like the combo does a decent job of keeping heat out (and I have had no problems with glass cracking etc.

 

[jpfive]

I have 3m Crystalline all around, on my Model 3 and have had it since December of 2018 with no issues. I DO park in a garage at home though.

Thanks. The 3M crystalline is my choice as well. How dark did you go?

 

[jjrandorin]

Thanks. The 3M crystalline is my choice as well. How dark did you go?

20 percent front and back windows, roof, and back glass (1 piece). 70% windshield.

Note, in CA its not legal to tint front windshield, except for a small strip near the top of the windshield, and its not legal to tint the front drivers and passengers side windows. Mine are tinted anyway (and many people tint these windows out here). Just mentioning it in case someone thinks I am unaware. Havent had an issue yet, knock on wood. Been tinting the front windows on the bmws I have had for the past 18 years or so prior to having the model 3P, and only got a couple fix it tickets during that time.

 

[t00shay]

I have the llumar irx all around including the sunroof. No problems with the roof or back glass at all. You just need a good place to install the tint.

 

[jpfive]

20 percent front and back windows, roof, and back glass (1 piece). 70% windshield.

Note, in CA its not legal to tint front windshield, except for a small strip near the top of the windshield, and its not legal to tint the front drivers and passengers side windows. Mine are tinted anyway (and many people tint these windows out here). Just mentioning it in case someone thinks I am unaware. Havent had an issue yet, knock on wood. Been tinting the front windows on the bmws I have had for the past 18 years or so prior to having the model 3P, and only got a couple fix it tickets during that time.

There are similar restrictions in FL. There is a legally allowable tint for front windows. It is a reasonable amount. My tinting shop follows the law on that. I have installed Crystalline on one windshield in the past - but it was essentially clear (very light tint). It still afforded UV protection, in addition to strengthening the windshield from intrusion of debris kicked up from the road. I prefer a light enough tint that I can make eye contact with other drivers or pedestrians and so that police can see inside the car. I have family members in law enforcement who say they appreciate that. Thanks very much for your input.

 

[jjrandorin]

I have the llumar irx all around including the sunroof. No problems with the roof or back glass at all. You just need a good place to install the tint.

I agree with this. Who installs the tint is more important than what tint is installed. I have a place near my house in temecula I have used for about 15 years (they have been in business for like 30 years).

 

[jpfive]

I agree with this. Who installs the tint is more important than what tint is installed. I have a place near my house in temecula I have used for about 15 years (they have been in business for like 30 years).

Mmmmm. Temecula. Love that place.

 

[Kevy Baby]

Suntek CIR (Ceramic) on all glass: roof, back, sides, and windshield. For me, the factory roof let in room much light and I was feeling like I needed a har when driving when the sun was high in the sky.

No cracking with ceramic on the roof.

The AAA has a state-by-state rundown of the tinting laws, but I have heard they may not all be accurate/up-to-date.

 

[Wicked_M3P]

I have the llumar irx all around including the sunroof. No problems with the roof or back glass at all. You just need a good place to install the tint.

Where did you go for your tint and what %? Any Pics?

 

[t00shay]

Where did you go for your tint and what %? Any Pics?

I got 30% and it still looks light in the sun as I have the white interior. I have 80% on the front windshield. Signature tint in Costa Mesa did a great job. They aren’t cheap but are pros and have an excellent warranty including re-tint for free.