8 Common Window Tinting Mistakes to Avoid with Your Car

Window Kote Blogger • April 2, 2021

Giving your car's windows the right tints requires knowing what can hinder your progress. Here are common window tinting mistakes to avoid with your car.

common window tinting mistakes

Are you looking for a way to cool down your car in the summer heat? Do you want to add an extra layer of privacy while also protecting your car's interior from sun damage?


These are all great reasons to start looking into window tinting for your vehicle. If it's your first time installing this beneficial accessory, it's good to read up on the common window tinting mistakes to ensure everything goes well. 



We've listed the top mistakes down below to make your first tinting experience a huge success!

1. Attempting a DIY Tint

One of the biggest mistakes is when a person tries to install a tint on their own. It appears to be a simple process, but there are a lot of things that go wrong when an inexperienced person attempts to apply the film.


To get a smooth, clear, and long-lasting result, you need to know what you're doing. That's why attempting to DIY the tint installation is never a good idea.



At best, you might end up with bubbled or torn film that doesn't look good. At worst, you'll damage your windows and need an expensive repair. It's always best to contact a window tinting service to do the application for you!

2. Not Having a Goal in Mind

Not all types of tints are the same. Most have a specific purpose when they're applied to your car, so it's good to have an idea of what you want before you approach a company.


For example, if you're looking for the best quality UV protection, then you want a LLumar window tint. It blocks almost all of those harmful rays and leaves you and your family safe while on a long drive. It's also good for protecting your car's interior against sun damage.



If you only want to apply a tint due to extra privacy, then going with something a little less high-quality can be a good choice.

3. Selecting the Wrong Company

Many companies that offer window tinting don't specialize in it. Instead, it's often offered as a bonus while they do other car repairs and add-ons.


You always want to choose a window tinting company that has a lot of experience in the field. When a company focuses on window tinting, they'll know all the tricks to give you a flawless application every time. They won't rush the process or cause your car any damage along the way.



The best of the best are the companies that are SelectPro Dealers. This means they're one of the few exclusive places allowed to sell high-quality window tints like the LLumar variety. When you're looking to add something special to your vehicle, search for a SelectPro dealer and you'll know you're in good hands!

4. Not Doing Local Law Research

Do you know your local tint laws? Some regions have different restrictions than other places and you need to know which ones to follow.



Some cities, for example, don't allow tinting of the front window while others are lax. Reputable companies will let you know if your request is against local law, but some companies might not be so careful. It's up to you to know what's allowed in your region so that you protect yourself from any illegal installations.

5. Choosing Cheap Film

Applying window tints to your car is a beneficial investment. It's always much better to splurge for the highest quality than to purchase something cheaper.


With cheaper films, you run the risk of it tearing or peeling off after only a few weeks. High-quality tint films last for years and are far more durable than cheaper varieties.



It's a bigger cost in the beginning but you'll end up saving more money because you won't need to replace the high-quality film as much as the lower quality. It also makes your life easier if you don't have to worry every time you roll the window down to enjoy a cool breeze.

6. Going Too Dark

It might seem cool to have dark windows on your favorite vehicle. It adds an air of mystery and turns any car into something luxurious.


However, you want to keep visibility in mind before you choose the darkness of your window tint. That level of darkness works well in the brightness of daytime, but will you struggle to see at night?



If you're someone who dislikes driving at night, it's a good idea to go for a lighter shade to help you with visibility when the sun goes down.

7. Forgetting to Clean the Windows First

Window tinting preparation requires that you have clean windows before applying the film. A good company knows to clean the windows beforehand, but you should clean them yourself as well.



If the film sets over grime and dirt, those blemishes show up through the film. It'll create an unpleasant texture and lead to damage in the film faster than normal wear and tear.

8. Ignoring Drying Precautions

After the tinting is in place, you need to be extra cautious about your windows as the film dries and melds with the glass. It's more fragile in this stage and you don't want to ruin it before you get to enjoy it.


Avoid rolling down your windows for the first couple of days and keep the car covered if it rains. Don't go into any carwashes since the abrasive process will do a lot of damage to the still-drying film.



It's best to give the tinting ample time to dry so that you get the best outcome!

Avoid These Common Window Tinting Mistakes by Contacting the Right Company

When you decide to tint your windows, you want a result that makes you happy instead of frustrated. That's why it's important to avoid the most common window tinting mistakes so that your investment is worth the cost.


The fool-proof way to ensure that you get the best results is by finding a reputable and professional window tinting company. Never settle for less!


To learn more about our premium brand of LLumar Window Film, contact us today at Window Kote of Largo! We'll get your car windows looking beautiful in no time.

car window tinting cost
By Window Kote Blogger March 27, 2025
Discover car window tinting costs in 2025, from $150 for dyed films to $1,000 for premium ceramic tints. Learn about benefits, cost factors, and the best options for your budget!
How car window tinting reduces glare
By Window Kote Blogger March 3, 2025
Discover how car window tinting reduces glare and eye fatigue, making long drives safer and more comfortable. Learn about the benefits, types of tint, legal considerations, and how to find the best ‘car window tinting near me.’ Enhance your driving experience with professional tinting solutions today!
Car Window Tinting Guide
By Window Kote Blogger February 14, 2025
Discover everything about car window tinting, from trends and benefits to maintenance tips. Improve privacy, UV protection, and interior preservation while enhancing your driving experience. Explore dyed, metalized, carbon, and ceramic tints, plus eco-friendly options.
Tinted windows care tips
By Window Kote Blogger February 5, 2025
Learn key maintenance tips for all window tint types—dyed, metallic, carbon, and ceramic. This guide covers cleaning, protection, and lifespan extension to ensure optimal performance. Find DIY care advice or professional help to keep your tinted windows in top shape.
Tesla tint Largo FL
By Window Kote Blogger January 28, 2025
Upgrade your Tesla in Largo, FL with professional window tinting for added comfort, UV protection, and privacy. Choose from various tint types and trust Window Kote for high-quality installation. Contact us today for a free estimate!
types of car window tinting
By Window Kote Blogger January 17, 2025
Discover how window tinting affects visibility in various conditions, including day, night, and weather scenarios. Learn about tint types, legal regulations, and expert tips for balancing style, safety, and compliance. Make informed decisions to enhance your vehicle's aesthetics and driving experience.
Tesla Cybertruck window tinting experts
By Window Kote Blogger January 7, 2025
Discover expert Tesla Cybertruck window tinting in Largo! Stay stylish, legal, and protected with tips on Florida tinting laws, best film types, and professional installation.
benefits of storefront window tinting
By Window Kote Blogger December 31, 2024
Discover how storefront window tinting boosts your business image with sleek aesthetics, enhanced privacy, UV protection, and energy savings. Learn about the benefits, customization options, and expert tips for selecting the perfect window tint to attract customers, reduce costs, and elevate your brand.
ceramic window tint Largo FL
By Window Kote Blogger December 20, 2024
Metallic vs. ceramic window tints: Compare heat rejection, UV protection, durability, and style. Find the perfect tint for your car, whether you value budget or premium performance.
Tesla window tint
By Window Kote Blogger December 4, 2024
Enhance your Tesla with window tinting for UV protection, heat reduction, privacy, and glare control—without affecting Autopilot. Trust Window Kote of Largo for expert installation. Contact us today for a free estimate!
Show More
Share by: