View Poll Results: To tint or not to tint
Yes
341
90.21%
No
37
9.79%
Voters: 378. You may not vote on this poll
Tinted Windows W203 Thread - All You want to know about window tinting a C Class
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 3,145
Likes: 0
From: Ohio
2010 C300 4matic
Re: tint scratches
Originally posted by smc22
It's just dust and dirt that you pick up during normal use of the vehicle.
It's just dust and dirt that you pick up during normal use of the vehicle.
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 350
Likes: 0
From: Vancouver, BC Canada
2005 Porsche Boxster 987
thanks my buddy reccomended me a place near west broadway
they told me 200 bones for a tint all the way round.
thats alot better then my mb dealership $350!
i ve seen the job they did on my friends neon its seems good.
they told me 200 bones for a tint all the way round.
thats alot better then my mb dealership $350!
i ve seen the job they did on my friends neon its seems good.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 3,145
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From: Ohio
2010 C300 4matic
Warning to those who tint their coupe!
I finally had my car in the shop today to find out about the bad radio reception and the smart key lock and unlock not working. It is not a metallic tint, and they have discovered that the antenna amplifiers are not working.
These are located at the top of the rear glass so when the hatch is open, the solution they use with the tint flows down onto these parts. The only way to replace these are to remove the rear glass because they are between the glass and the metal frame.
Now, I'm just hoping that this can be done without breaking the glass and so the window can be put back in without having to redo the tint. So be careful and warn your tint shop about this. I warned them because I had heard that there were sensors there. But the tint shop called the dealer and they said it was not a problem to get them wet. Apparently it is. So beware. I'm surprised more people have not had this problem.
These are located at the top of the rear glass so when the hatch is open, the solution they use with the tint flows down onto these parts. The only way to replace these are to remove the rear glass because they are between the glass and the metal frame.
Now, I'm just hoping that this can be done without breaking the glass and so the window can be put back in without having to redo the tint. So be careful and warn your tint shop about this. I warned them because I had heard that there were sensors there. But the tint shop called the dealer and they said it was not a problem to get them wet. Apparently it is. So beware. I'm surprised more people have not had this problem.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 7,587
Likes: 0
From: Louisiana
E320
Originally posted by Buellwinkle
Visions, the phone number is (714) 630-0744 and they are at 1024 N. Tustin Ave and the 91 Fwy. They know all the problems with MBs and the molesking issue as they do all of Caliber MB's work.
Visions, the phone number is (714) 630-0744 and they are at 1024 N. Tustin Ave and the 91 Fwy. They know all the problems with MBs and the molesking issue as they do all of Caliber MB's work.
Former Vendor of MBWorld
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 12,403
Likes: 21
From: South Florida
Fast Cars!
i had the exact same problem, the dealer replaced the antenna amplifier and rear window
now its fine, i had the rear tinted with out metalic as people have told me that was the problem. but it probally wasn't.
now its fine, i had the rear tinted with out metalic as people have told me that was the problem. but it probally wasn't.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 6,211
Likes: 2
From: Laguna Niguel, CA
I mentioned this warning a long time ago. The tinter got the electronics on the top part of the hatch wet. Some dealers will see that the tinter did it and not warranty it. My tinter took all the plastic panels off and masked off these 2 components to avoid getting them wet. They cost over $200 each.
Former Vendor of MBWorld
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 12,403
Likes: 21
From: South Florida
Fast Cars!
Originally posted by Buellwinkle
I mentioned this warning a long time ago. The tinter got the electronics on the top part of the hatch wet. Some dealers will see that the tinter did it and not warranty it. My tinter took all the plastic panels off and masked off these 2 components to avoid getting them wet. They cost over $200 each.
I mentioned this warning a long time ago. The tinter got the electronics on the top part of the hatch wet. Some dealers will see that the tinter did it and not warranty it. My tinter took all the plastic panels off and masked off these 2 components to avoid getting them wet. They cost over $200 each.
Only it did not help me much since i had my windows tinted the day i got my car.
well over a year ago.
Super Member
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 844
Likes: 1
From: SF South Bay
2002 C230 Coupe
Sometimes it pays the little extra to go to a reputable tint shop for the job so that they know what they are doing. The tinter who did my car actually crawl inside the trunk and did the tint inside the car with the trunk lid closed. This way he didn't need to remove any cover and mask any sensors = less chance of scratch/screw up something else.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 3,145
Likes: 0
From: Ohio
2010 C300 4matic
Yeah Buell, I remember your post about this too. You had said it was some kind of sensor. I didn't know it was the antenna amplifier. The key hardly even works at all now.
But I did warn the tint shop and they called the dealer and the dealer said it was no problem, so I am making them take care of it. Plus, since I work there, they are more willing to make sure it is warrantied. But for the rest of you, I would be careful. The dealer may not want to cover it. In this case, hopefully the tint shop will cover it. I will find out the total cost of the sensors and the labor and everything and let you guys know.
20FHK02, that is a good suggestion. I had footprints in my trunk, but I'm sure they did it with the hatch up.
BlackC230Coupe, did they successfully get the window out and put the same one back in so you didn't have to get it re-tinted?
But I did warn the tint shop and they called the dealer and the dealer said it was no problem, so I am making them take care of it. Plus, since I work there, they are more willing to make sure it is warrantied. But for the rest of you, I would be careful. The dealer may not want to cover it. In this case, hopefully the tint shop will cover it. I will find out the total cost of the sensors and the labor and everything and let you guys know.
20FHK02, that is a good suggestion. I had footprints in my trunk, but I'm sure they did it with the hatch up.
BlackC230Coupe, did they successfully get the window out and put the same one back in so you didn't have to get it re-tinted?
Banned
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 182
Likes: 0
From: San Diego, CA
W203
50% in CA
is 50% tint legal in CA? I thought that the most that you can have is actually 35%? I might be wrong. Where is the best place to get it down cause I know that MBs have to have some moleskin attached in the inside of the door panel due to some scratching or something. I saw my co-workers E-Class' tint just all messed up!
Almost a Member!
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 68
Likes: 0
From: Sydney, Australia
MB C180K Coupe
Yes 35% is darker.
Limousines often use 5 - 15 %
Street legal (at least over where I am) is 35%
Don't forget though that the colour of the tint makes a difference also in the appearance.
Limousines often use 5 - 15 %
Street legal (at least over where I am) is 35%
Don't forget though that the colour of the tint makes a difference also in the appearance.
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 877
Likes: 0
asdf
yeah, the lower the number, the less light is going in. 5% means that only 5% of the suns light goes through, 50% means that only 50% of the sun light goes through. California's law says that the front windows CANNOT have any tint on them. I believe smoked is legal but you can't even tell that its smoked. I currently have 5% all the way around on my w202 and cops DO see it. I've been pulled over about 7-8 times but only received two fix it tickets. Most cops in Southern California don't care about tinted windows but if you're up in the bay area, they'll pull you over. I love 5% because I can pick my nose on the freeway without worrying if anyone's watching me. 
But it gets annoying sometimes because whenever I make left turns I have to roll down my window to see where I'm turning. It's pretty dangerous to drive with such dark windows also because If I'm at a stop sign/light I can't see if anyone is crossing the street in front of me until they're visible from my windshield. And also whenever you see a cop, you have to roll down your window, day/night/rain. But it looks great and sleek. Hope this helps. I would stick with 35% all the way around if I were you. I've had 35% before, (got pulled over) then put 20% (but got pulled over again) so i finally decided on 5%. (yes, I kept on going darker)
But it gets annoying sometimes because whenever I make left turns I have to roll down my window to see where I'm turning. It's pretty dangerous to drive with such dark windows also because If I'm at a stop sign/light I can't see if anyone is crossing the street in front of me until they're visible from my windshield. And also whenever you see a cop, you have to roll down your window, day/night/rain. But it looks great and sleek. Hope this helps. I would stick with 35% all the way around if I were you. I've had 35% before, (got pulled over) then put 20% (but got pulled over again) so i finally decided on 5%. (yes, I kept on going darker)
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 350
Likes: 0
From: Southern California
2002 C240
Originally posted by henry47
yeah, the lower the number, the less light is going in. 5% means that only 5% of the suns light goes through, 50% means that only 50% of the sun light goes through. California's law says that the front windows CANNOT have any tint on them. I believe smoked is legal but you can't even tell that its smoked. I currently have 5% all the way around on my w202 and cops DO see it. I've been pulled over about 7-8 times but only received two fix it tickets. Most cops in Southern California don't care about tinted windows but if you're up in the bay area, they'll pull you over. I love 5% because I can pick my nose on the freeway without worrying if anyone's watching me. But it gets annoying sometimes because whenever I make left turns I have to roll down my window to see where I'm turning. It's pretty dangerous to drive with such dark windows also because If I'm at a stop sign/light I can't see if anyone is crossing the street in front of me until they're visible from my windshield. And also whenever you see a cop, you have to roll down your window, day/night/rain. But it looks great and sleek.
yeah, the lower the number, the less light is going in. 5% means that only 5% of the suns light goes through, 50% means that only 50% of the sun light goes through. California's law says that the front windows CANNOT have any tint on them. I believe smoked is legal but you can't even tell that its smoked. I currently have 5% all the way around on my w202 and cops DO see it. I've been pulled over about 7-8 times but only received two fix it tickets. Most cops in Southern California don't care about tinted windows but if you're up in the bay area, they'll pull you over. I love 5% because I can pick my nose on the freeway without worrying if anyone's watching me.
But it gets annoying sometimes because whenever I make left turns I have to roll down my window to see where I'm turning. It's pretty dangerous to drive with such dark windows also because If I'm at a stop sign/light I can't see if anyone is crossing the street in front of me until they're visible from my windshield. And also whenever you see a cop, you have to roll down your window, day/night/rain. But it looks great and sleek.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 567
Likes: 0
From: Los Angeles
this is mine with 35% tint. i say go with 35% tint because it's just perfect. 50% mite be a little too light. it's hard to tell the difference with 35 and 50 on different photos because of the light and all that. my advice is go with 35%. legal tint in california is something like 90% some ridiculous number like that, better not get tint if you're gonna tint at 90%. a lot of celebs in socal so i guess they let the dark tint slide a bit.
Last edited by b4chow; Jan 29, 2003 at 07:55 PM.
Almost a Member!
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 60
Likes: 0
From: Orange County, CA
2002 C230K Sportcoupe
Tinted windshields are suicidal.
IMHO, go a little lighter than you think. I got 35% on the front, 20% on the back, and it's too dark. If I had it to do over again, I would certainly get 50% front 35% back. But then again, I'm not trying to look like a pimp, either.
IMHO, go a little lighter than you think. I got 35% on the front, 20% on the back, and it's too dark. If I had it to do over again, I would certainly get 50% front 35% back. But then again, I'm not trying to look like a pimp, either.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,480
Likes: 1
From: Central NJ
C230K Coupe/Orion/C4/C5/CD/AMG Spoiler/V60/TeleAid, 2 MGB's
Any after-market tint is illegal in NJ. They'll ticket you for "Obstructed Vision" on the roadways, and fail inspection when you take it to DMV. First offense is $78.00 + court costs (appearance req. to prove it's fixed), second offense is $165 and suspended license (+ $50restoration fee)....third offense....is contempt of court. They can impound your car on the spot and you go to jail...do not pass go...do not collect $200.
Kman....I hope you know someone that owns a private inspection shop.
Kman....I hope you know someone that owns a private inspection shop.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,068
Likes: 0
From: Fort Worth, TX
05 Navigator
Window Tint on 03 C240
Hi all, I have a quick question for you guys about window tint. I recently just bought my 2003 C240 and want to get the windows tinted. I asked my salesman who they would recommend to do the tinting. He gave me the number to Artech here in Fort Worth. I gave them a call and they wanted $589.00 to tint my car. Is this normal? It seems a bit high for me. He said they have to remove the door panels and that is $85 per door panel. How did you guys do it.
Thanks
Thanks
Member
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 159
Likes: 3
From: Boston Ma.
2017 S63 Cabriolet Black With Porcelain 2019 Range Rover Velar Special Edition
windows tinted
for the last 20 yrs I have paid $150 to 220 per vehicle I live in the boston area but i would bet in texas it's cheaper 150 is usaully for a coupe and 220 for a sedan here's an example.
Administrator
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 15,769
Likes: 37
From: www.Traben-Trarbach.de
MPG+ ROLFCOPTER
Do STFF and you will find numerous posts about the problem of tint scratching. MBs have a cross member in the door that needs to be smoothed out or *moleskin* applied. This shop appearently knows about it. But it still seems high. Unless of course you can live with the scratches. MB-BOB is in the area. Maybe he would let you look at his car and can give you some recommendations. If he doesn't read this PM him.
Member
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 144
Likes: 0
From: Dallas
C230 K
because...
i stopped by AltaMere in Dallas today to see about getting tinted... i think you may have run into what i did.
per alta mere (i've had 2 other cars tinted here, they do great work and know what they are talking about so...):
if you use a metallic tint on the back window, it will interfere with your radio reception esp. AM stations. so you have these options:
1. Use all metallic and risk bad reception.
2. Use metallic on the sides and plastic film on the rear. The sides will be guaranteed, but not the el-cheapo on the back.
3. They have a new tint in from Germany, it is CERAMIC instead of metallic. It will not interfere with radio reception. the catch? it was gonna cost me $450 to get it done. craaaaaaaaap! this is likely what they were trying to sell you.
They had a cool display set up. there is a piece of auto glass with a metallic film on half and ceramic on the other. this goes below a heat lamp. you stick your hand in the box and push a button and the lamp comes on. with the metallic side in front of the lamp it's pretty warm, slide the CERAMIC side over and it cools INSTANTLY.
i think it's pretty cool and probably worth the $$. I'll probably go back and get it done soon. it's a lot, but i plan to keep this car a while anyway.
per alta mere (i've had 2 other cars tinted here, they do great work and know what they are talking about so...):
if you use a metallic tint on the back window, it will interfere with your radio reception esp. AM stations. so you have these options:
1. Use all metallic and risk bad reception.
2. Use metallic on the sides and plastic film on the rear. The sides will be guaranteed, but not the el-cheapo on the back.
3. They have a new tint in from Germany, it is CERAMIC instead of metallic. It will not interfere with radio reception. the catch? it was gonna cost me $450 to get it done. craaaaaaaaap! this is likely what they were trying to sell you.
They had a cool display set up. there is a piece of auto glass with a metallic film on half and ceramic on the other. this goes below a heat lamp. you stick your hand in the box and push a button and the lamp comes on. with the metallic side in front of the lamp it's pretty warm, slide the CERAMIC side over and it cools INSTANTLY.
i think it's pretty cool and probably worth the $$. I'll probably go back and get it done soon. it's a lot, but i plan to keep this car a while anyway.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 3,145
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From: Ohio
2010 C300 4matic
Why is the non-metallic the el-cheapo? My window tint has no metallic in it and it looks fine, and has a lifetime warranty.
BTW, this is very important. Make sure that they tint your rear glass from the inside with the hatch closed. The antenna amplifiers are on the top of the window and you DO NOT want water to get in them. It happened to me. You will have really bad radio reception and your key will not lock and unlock the doors unless you point it right at the infrared on the handle.
The glass guy that fixed mine said the rear window had to replaced, so they did this and then I had to have it tinted again. So be careful. Even if they don't have to replace the glass, it still has to come out to fix the antenna amplifiers and then put back in.
BTW, this is very important. Make sure that they tint your rear glass from the inside with the hatch closed. The antenna amplifiers are on the top of the window and you DO NOT want water to get in them. It happened to me. You will have really bad radio reception and your key will not lock and unlock the doors unless you point it right at the infrared on the handle.
The glass guy that fixed mine said the rear window had to replaced, so they did this and then I had to have it tinted again. So be careful. Even if they don't have to replace the glass, it still has to come out to fix the antenna amplifiers and then put back in.
