North American Motoring

Mini Cooper: Window Tint Modifications

Whether your goal is to reduce glare, keep the interior of your car cool, or simply alter your vehicle's appearance, window tint modifications can accomplish your goals while minimizing the overall expense.

By Kate Halse - June 6, 2016

This article applies to the Mini Cooper (2001-present).

If you want to alter the appearance of your Mini Cooper without spending too much money, tinted windows can be a great choice. Aside from offering protection from the sun, tinted windows can also help cool down your car's interior. Whether you choose a higher or lower percentage tint, you'll probably want to let the pros install it, as tinting your own windows can be tricky. Read on to find out more about window tint and the various grades to consider.

To Tint or Not to Tint?

There are many reasons why you may choose to tint your car's windows. For starters, it can make your car look edgier without breaking the bank. If you live in a warmer year-round climate, tinted windows can help keep the interior cool and comfortable even on the hottest days. In contrast to non-tinted windows, tinted windows can shield you from harmful UV rays. Tinted windows also offer a bit more privacy. Before you decide to tint your windows, be sure to check the laws in your state. Some states allow greater tint percentages than others.

Light (50% and higher)

Figure 1. 70% tint.

DIY Cost – $50-$100

Professional Cost – $50-$300

Skill Level – Intermediate; Previous window tinting experience is ideal.

According to Cartintlaw.com, anything less than 50 percent tint may not be necessary, even if you live in an area with a stronger sun glare. Opting for a tint percentage under 50 percent can cause poor visibility in low-light conditions and may be illegal in your state. Some vehicles come with windows that are already tinted. According to Yourmechanic.com, the Visible Light Transference (VLT) in this case is 74 to 85 percent.

Moderate (35-50%)

Figure 2. 35% tint.

DIY Cost – $50-$100

Professional Cost – $50-$300

Skill Level – Intermediate; Previous window tinting experience is ideal.

The lower the tint percentage, the darker your windows will appear. For example, 50% tint means that your windows will let half the amount of sunlight in. If you choose a 35 percent tint, 65 percent of the light will be blocked. Several Mini Cooper owners find that 35 percent offers the right amount of privacy and protection without compromising visibility in lower light settings.

Dark (20-30%)

Figure 3. 25% tint.

DIY Cost – $50-$100

Professional Cost – $50-$300

Skill Level – Intermediate to Advanced; Previous window tinting experience is ideal.

Tint towards the darker end of the spectrum can cause visibility issues, especially at night and in low light conditions. Some drivers report problems seeing out of windows that are tinted 20 to 30 percent. Be sure to check your state laws before installing tint in this percent range, as it may be illegal or only allowed on certain windows, like the back and trunk.

Very Dark (5-15%)

Figure 4. For obvious reasons, 5-15% tint is illegal in many states for front windows.

DIY Cost – $50-$100

Professional Cost – $50-$300

Skill Level – Intermediate to Advanced; Previous window tinting experience is ideal.

A five percent tint only allows five percent sunlight to pass through. Percentages this low are frequently illegal in most states in regards to tinting the front windows. Windows that are heavily tinted can make it difficult to see out of, even during daylight hours.

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