Window tinting recommendations

systech · 10-28-2009, 10:23 PM

Summer is coming !

Any recommendations for window tinting (best type, dealer, price) preferably in Adelaide (most chains are based here).

Thanks in advance for any inputs.

Scooterman · 10-28-2009, 11:35 PM

I had my done recently at Tintacar. I went for midnight express (difference is really only colour as all under consideration were max UV, heat reduction, lifetime national warranty etc) Cost $295.

Given my light interior its looks good. It probably would be a bit dark for my taste with black interior though as the interior colour/reflection seems to make a significant difference to darkness of tint. Fit is perfect as their tint is pre cut for model.

It turned out fine but I:

1. went to a large inner city (Melbourne) branch who do a lot of new cars for dealers; and
2. told the owner I was anal and car has no marks on car or upholstery now and I expect it back the same. He was cool and said thanks for letting him know he just makes sure the guys took extra care of upholstery i.e. put down towels etc.
3. I did not open my windows of touch the tint in any way for at least 2 days

Had my last one done by BMW but they wanted $695 which is a joke!.

John_01 · 10-29-2009, 01:43 AM

I've heard you need to avoid metallic films like bolle, because it affects the FM radio antenna and possibly the comfort access as well.

I'd go for either Formula1 ceramic tint or 3M black which is a carbon coloured film. I have 3M black on my e90. Both these films are speced at 35% light transmission, but I think the 3M film is slightly darker than formula1. I had formula1 on another car so I got the chance to compare side by side.

WOPALX · 10-29-2009, 02:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by John_01

I've heard you need to avoid metallic films like bolle, because it affects the FM radio antenna and possibly the comfort access as well.

I have Bolle on mine, no issues. They do use a different film on the rear window though but you cannot notice it.

I do however have a few light vertical lines on the drivers window, nothing can avoid it due to the BMW seal on the inside of the window.

ynote90 · 10-29-2009, 05:38 AM

I just got mine done yesterday at Scorpion Tint (sungard), went with the eclipse for $395, 35% all round. was gonna go with bolle at tintacar but got quote $540.

The eclipse range is a metallic base tint but soo far all good,no radio problems yet. Keeps quite abit of heat out + life time warranty. its abit more mirror finish

Scooterman · 10-29-2009, 06:55 PM

The $540 for Bolle at tinacar includes 2 pairs of Bolle sunglasses - not bad sunnies but I didn't need them.

MFKN3 · 10-29-2009, 10:02 PM

How about bubbling on the rear windscreen which seems to be a problem with these cars?

Having a coupe, they'd have to crawl all over the car to get the rear tinted which puts me off a bit

zenderm3 · 10-30-2009, 04:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by xsboost

How about bubbling on the rear windscreen which seems to be a problem with these cars?

Having a coupe, they'd have to crawl all over the car to get the rear tinted which puts me off a bit

+1... wondering about the bubbling...

ynote90 · 10-30-2009, 04:31 AM

I got some bubbles on the rear of my e90, asked the guy and he insured me that it'll be gone within months (sooner if parked in sun). If anything i can always come back get them re-do it.

stalin · 10-30-2009, 06:40 AM

dont use 3m tint

unless you never wish to unlock your car from any more than 1 meter away from the car, if you do, then by all means, please use 3m tint

mmmmQuattro · 10-30-2009, 01:25 PM

Let us know how you go, when I get back, late Nov, I might take mine there are well.
If you can wait, we could both get them done at the same place in case there is a discount on getting two done.

Ltran · 11-01-2009, 05:20 PM

How come the guys that has a mobile tinting service only charge you like 150 to do all your windows? Is it the material that they use, that make the difference in the cost?

MFKN3 · 11-03-2009, 03:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ltran

How come the guys that has a mobile tinting service only charge you like 150 to do all your windows? Is it the material that they use, that make the difference in the cost?

Because you're in America

red_eagle · 11-06-2009, 10:44 PM

I also have my e90 coming in early Dec and just wondering if anyone here has any experience with 3M Chrome tint? From what I read there, it seems that the metalised property of the tint will disrupt electronics/radio transmission?

John, you seem to have 3M Black? Any photo?
http://www.universaltint.com.au/Automotive.html

How does the colour look like with Bolle from tint-a-car? How's it compared to Formula 1 and Midnight Express?
http://www.tintacar.com.au/bolle.php

My current preference is:
- 3M Chrome, then
- 3M Black, then
- Bolle

My car is azurite black with black interior too... I thought something that's chromish for the window tinting would be good? Or should I go with black tint too?

Thanks for your advice

John_01 · 11-06-2009, 11:59 PM

You can see pictures of my car here:
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=286541

From what I have seen Midnight Express, Formula 1, and 3M Black are all grey colour tints. I found that Formula 1 is a bit lighter in colour than 3M black. I think that Midnight express and 3M Black are probably similar in colour and darkness, but I haven't done a side by side comparison. I don't know if Midnight express will cause any trouble with radio reception or not. A tint with a chrome finish may help with heat rejection, but I personally wouldn't choose it for the looks.

Bolle has a green hue in the colour, so you need to consider if that will suit your car. I don't have experience with that, but I think since you have a black interior it probably wouldn't be an issue. The only trouble is that Bolle is a metalised film, so I've been told that it shouldn't be used for the rear window.

I suggest you get a quote from the dealer for the tinting. You should also ask them which film will be used.

red_eagle · 11-07-2009, 12:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by John_01

You can see pictures of my car here:
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=286541

From what I have seen Midnight Express, Formula 1, and 3M Black are all grey colour tints. I found that Formula 1 is a bit lighter in colour than 3M black. I think that Midnight express and 3M Black are probably similar in colour and darkness, but I haven't done a side by side comparison. I don't know if Midnight express will cause any trouble with radio reception or not. A tint with a chrome finish may help with heat rejection, but I personally wouldn't choose it for the looks.

Bolle has a green hue in the colour, so you need to consider if that will suit your car. I don't have experience with that, but I think since you have a black interior it probably wouldn't be an issue. The only trouble is that Bolle is a metalised film, so I've been told that it shouldn't be used for the rear window.

I suggest you get a quote from the dealer for the tinting. You should also ask them which film will be used.

Thanks mate!! Appreciate the suggestions.

MFKN3 · 11-11-2009, 05:49 PM

Anyone got any contacts in Brisbane?

J325i · 11-11-2009, 06:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by xsboost

Anyone got any contacts in Brisbane?

I used Sungard in Woolloongabba before for my E46 coupe. They did an excellent job, no buble at all. I think I put in the 'Endurance' film.

Now, I'm looking for a darker one. Let me know if you find another place. If more people in Brisbane want to get window tint, I think we should try to get a group bargain.

The__J__Factor · 11-11-2009, 08:58 PM

I think ill probably go with MasterTint - they use 3M films and was quoted $199 for my car. Its good having a small car :P

For a sedan, tint shouldnt be more then say $350ish other wise they are taking advantage of the BMW badge.

mmmmQuattro · 11-18-2009, 06:22 PM

Hey systech, did you end up getting the tint done and if so who did it?

systech · 11-19-2009, 12:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jp330Cic.au

Hey systech, did you end up getting the tint done and if so who did it?

Got it done by Tint a Car in Clovelly Park. Used Formula One which is not quite as black as Midnight (IIRC) but did not want the "Pimp my Car" look

. Formula 1 has a very slight green tinge but not a green as Bolle.
They wanted $495 but finally negotiated a price of $395. Am happy with the job done and reduction in internal heat during the day is noticeable.

John_01 · 11-19-2009, 02:38 AM

Hi Systech, I think you will be happy with Formula 1. I had it on my previous car (a Holden). I never had any issues with the tint over 6 years of ownership. Do you have any updated pics of your car?

10-28-2009, 10:23 PM	#1
systech Private First Class 9 Rep 104 Posts Drives: 335i (sold) 997.2 Carrera S Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Adelaide South Australia iTrader: (0)	Window tinting recommendations Summer is coming ! Any recommendations for window tinting (best type, dealer, price) preferably in Adelaide (most chains are based here). Thanks in advance for any inputs.
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10-28-2009, 11:35 PM	#2
Scooterman Private First Class 1 Rep 144 Posts Drives: 335i Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	I had my done recently at Tintacar. I went for midnight express (difference is really only colour as all under consideration were max UV, heat reduction, lifetime national warranty etc) Cost $295. Given my light interior its looks good. It probably would be a bit dark for my taste with black interior though as the interior colour/reflection seems to make a significant difference to darkness of tint. Fit is perfect as their tint is pre cut for model. It turned out fine but I: 1. went to a large inner city (Melbourne) branch who do a lot of new cars for dealers; and 2. told the owner I was anal and car has no marks on car or upholstery now and I expect it back the same. He was cool and said thanks for letting him know he just makes sure the guys took extra care of upholstery i.e. put down towels etc. 3. I did not open my windows of touch the tint in any way for at least 2 days Had my last one done by BMW but they wanted $695 which is a joke!.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-29-2009, 01:43 AM	#3
John_01 Colonel 232 Rep 2,643 Posts Drives: E90 325i, E82 135i Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Sydney, Australia iTrader: (0)	I've heard you need to avoid metallic films like bolle, because it affects the FM radio antenna and possibly the comfort access as well. I'd go for either Formula1 ceramic tint or 3M black which is a carbon coloured film. I have 3M black on my e90. Both these films are speced at 35% light transmission, but I think the 3M film is slightly darker than formula1. I had formula1 on another car so I got the chance to compare side by side.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-29-2009, 05:38 AM	#5
ynote90 New Member 1 Rep 24 Posts Drives: e90 Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Adelaide, Australia iTrader: (0)	I just got mine done yesterday at Scorpion Tint (sungard), went with the eclipse for $395, 35% all round. was gonna go with bolle at tintacar but got quote $540. The eclipse range is a metallic base tint but soo far all good,no radio problems yet. Keeps quite abit of heat out + life time warranty. its abit more mirror finish
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-29-2009, 06:55 PM	#6
Scooterman Private First Class 1 Rep 144 Posts Drives: 335i Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	The $540 for Bolle at tinacar includes 2 pairs of Bolle sunglasses - not bad sunnies but I didn't need them.
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10-29-2009, 10:02 PM	#7
MFKN3 Colonel 127 Rep 2,224 Posts Drives: supercharged 4.4L stroker E92 Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (2)	How about bubbling on the rear windscreen which seems to be a problem with these cars? Having a coupe, they'd have to crawl all over the car to get the rear tinted which puts me off a bit
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-30-2009, 04:31 AM	#9
ynote90 New Member 1 Rep 24 Posts Drives: e90 Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Adelaide, Australia iTrader: (0)	I got some bubbles on the rear of my e90, asked the guy and he insured me that it'll be gone within months (sooner if parked in sun). If anything i can always come back get them re-do it.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-30-2009, 06:40 AM	#10
stalin New Member 0 Rep 16 Posts Drives: e92 m3 coupe Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: brisbane, australia iTrader: (0)	dont use 3m tint unless you never wish to unlock your car from any more than 1 meter away from the car, if you do, then by all means, please use 3m tint
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10-30-2009, 01:25 PM	#11
mmmmQuattro Major 259 Rep 1,165 Posts Drives: f83 / E93 335 / E70 X5 40d Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Adelaide, South Australia iTrader: (0) Garage List 2007 320 E91 M-Spor ... [0.00] 2009 335-E93 M-Sport [0.00]	Let us know how you go, when I get back, late Nov, I might take mine there are well. If you can wait, we could both get them done at the same place in case there is a discount on getting two done.
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11-01-2009, 05:20 PM	#12
Ltran Private First Class 8 Rep 182 Posts Drives: 2006 330i Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Atlanta iTrader: (1) Garage List 2011 X5 50i MSport [0.00] 2006 330i [0.00]	How come the guys that has a mobile tinting service only charge you like 150 to do all your windows? Is it the material that they use, that make the difference in the cost?
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11-06-2009, 10:44 PM	#14
red_eagle New Member 0 Rep 20 Posts Drives: 2010 323i M-Sport/Individual Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Sydney iTrader: (0)	I also have my e90 coming in early Dec and just wondering if anyone here has any experience with 3M Chrome tint? From what I read there, it seems that the metalised property of the tint will disrupt electronics/radio transmission? John, you seem to have 3M Black? Any photo? http://www.universaltint.com.au/Automotive.html How does the colour look like with Bolle from tint-a-car? How's it compared to Formula 1 and Midnight Express? http://www.tintacar.com.au/bolle.php My current preference is: - 3M Chrome, then - 3M Black, then - Bolle My car is azurite black with black interior too... I thought something that's chromish for the window tinting would be good? Or should I go with black tint too? Thanks for your advice
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11-06-2009, 11:59 PM	#15
John_01 Colonel 232 Rep 2,643 Posts Drives: E90 325i, E82 135i Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Sydney, Australia iTrader: (0)	You can see pictures of my car here: http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=286541 From what I have seen Midnight Express, Formula 1, and 3M Black are all grey colour tints. I found that Formula 1 is a bit lighter in colour than 3M black. I think that Midnight express and 3M Black are probably similar in colour and darkness, but I haven't done a side by side comparison. I don't know if Midnight express will cause any trouble with radio reception or not. A tint with a chrome finish may help with heat rejection, but I personally wouldn't choose it for the looks. Bolle has a green hue in the colour, so you need to consider if that will suit your car. I don't have experience with that, but I think since you have a black interior it probably wouldn't be an issue. The only trouble is that Bolle is a metalised film, so I've been told that it shouldn't be used for the rear window. I suggest you get a quote from the dealer for the tinting. You should also ask them which film will be used.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-11-2009, 05:49 PM	#17
MFKN3 Colonel 127 Rep 2,224 Posts Drives: supercharged 4.4L stroker E92 Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (2)	Anyone got any contacts in Brisbane?
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11-11-2009, 08:58 PM	#19
The__J__Factor Major 88 Rep 1,090 Posts Drives: ///M Coupe Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Gold Coast, Australia iTrader: (0)	I think ill probably go with MasterTint - they use 3M films and was quoted $199 for my car. Its good having a small car :P For a sedan, tint shouldnt be more then say $350ish other wise they are taking advantage of the BMW badge. __________________ 135i N54 manual MR-S with a 2zz swap and mods Sold EVO X MR - Phantom Black - Ti Exhaust - Ti UICP - AQM Intake - Sold Z4 M Coupe - H&R - RE Diablo - RPi - Tekarbon - Sold
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11-18-2009, 06:22 PM	#20
mmmmQuattro Major 259 Rep 1,165 Posts Drives: f83 / E93 335 / E70 X5 40d Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Adelaide, South Australia iTrader: (0) Garage List 2007 320 E91 M-Spor ... [0.00] 2009 335-E93 M-Sport [0.00]	Hey systech, did you end up getting the tint done and if so who did it?
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11-19-2009, 02:38 AM	#22
John_01 Colonel 232 Rep 2,643 Posts Drives: E90 325i, E82 135i Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Sydney, Australia iTrader: (0)	Hi Systech, I think you will be happy with Formula 1. I had it on my previous car (a Holden). I never had any issues with the tint over 6 years of ownership. Do you have any updated pics of your car?
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