phx991

Has anyone tried windshield tint, and then removed it after not being happy with the optical quality?

I recently had 3M ceramic tint installed, including on the windshield. I'm fine with the fact that it's slightly darker, but during the day it also appears slightly hazy, if that makes any sense.

The side windows look great. It seems like any tint appears slightly hazy when viewed through an angle, so maybe the windshield is just not a great place for tint?

LexVan

Interference with polarized sunglasses?

GTSMeister

Arizona allows you to tint the windshield above the S1 line on the windshield. Actually they have a detailed way to measure it but it's close. And it can't be red or amber. An exemption is allowed for medical reasons.

If it's done at all it would be an 85% film. What did you have installed?

phx991

It's 3M Crystalline C70, which I believe is 70%. The problem isn't that it's hard to see because it is too dark--it's hard to tell it's tinted. It's more of an optical quality issue.

phx991

No that's not it. Looks the same with or without sunglasses.

zx5go

I have 3M Crystalline on my windshield and I do not have an issue with optical quality. I've had Suntek on another windshield on a former DD and Llumar on my current DD. No optical issues with any of them. On my DD I went 50 percent and actually prefer it to the lighter windshield tints I've used in the past.

I have read that Crystalline can be difficult for installers that are not experienced with it due to its many layers. Mess up while heating it and it can cause optic problems due to the layers not heating and cooling consistently. That is all heresay and I'm no expert.

RONGLOS

I have this tint in both my 911 and C300 and I don't have a problem with polarization in either. I'm in Cave Creek AZ for reference in sun density. I did the tint to ease the heat from direct sun. Does make a difference.

GTSMeister

There's a lot of variables to consider and others have piped in with their results. Lots of anecdotes will line up with whatever result you want. I'd say you should get the installer to make it right. If your installer can't meet your requirements then get them to remove it and find one that will meet those requirements.

Reduced IR infiltration (pick a number you like, the 3M is 97% rejection)
Optical clarity (your eyes are the test)
No discernible visible light reduction (keeps the law away)
Cost
Warranty

You could take samples of tinted windshield laminate glass outside and tilt them at angles like a windshield to see what you like. Windshield glass is different than side glass and it's at an angle so that's going to affect your clarity issue.

Hope you find a solution you like.

trucheli

I have Llumar Air Blue 80 on the windshield with no issues. Actually it cuts glare at night and reduces the Miami heat. Recently I also added Llumar Formula 1 30% to my glass moonroof. Great improvement since the cloth screen didn't help much with heat protection.

MoeMistry

Have you tried taking it back to installer and seeing if there was an issue with film or installation?