Window Tinting Question
 

I'll be taking my RX-8 to my buddy for tint. He has been doing it for 19 years and does amazing work. He has done every car I've owned. My question is what all interior parts need to be removed? I know the door panels will come off but what about the rear door panels or rear deck? I want to remove everythig myself before I take the car to him. If anyone has had experience with tinting their RX-8 I'd greatly appreciate the feedback!

You don't have to remove any panels to have it tinted. The tint is cut to fit on the outside of the window so it ends up a little bigger than the area that is vsible on the inside. The tint is then tucked behind the panels and such on the inside when it is put on. (this is done with a thin plastic tool)

i've tinted several of 'em. i remove the door panels. they're easy to remove so why not do it? nothing else needs to be removed. these cars are cake to tint for an experienced tinter.

Nothing needs to be removed. Just as Coop said, the person doing the tint will size the film using the outside of the window and then apply to the inside.

I'm sure you COULD remove the panels to do it but I don't see how that could help all that much. (plus those plastic clips that hold the door panel on {all 9} are a pain in the ass and break very easily)

Why not do it? because it's not needed, you risk breaking the customer's clips as Jedi said, all you are gaining is a little more window access at the bottom. If you cut the film right plenty of it ends up under the inside window wiper. You do push the window wiper down inside the door first right?

with the right tool you don't bust clips. i've been removing panels on cars for 20 years. don't be so scared. tucking the gaskets can damage them. there is a tool called the gasket wizard that can be used instead of tucking or removing the panels. those work nicely and allow the film to drop well below the gasket. i remove the panels for easier installation. every tinter does it differently. doesn't make any of em right or wrong.

why wipe your azz when you take a shiat? it's not needed....but it sure is cleaner.

I consider wiping necessary (I hope you do too) so not really a good comparison.... :mdrmed:


Whatever works for you.

ENOUGH! You guys are completely hijacking bch's thread.

Final Verdict: The tint job can be done both ways. Some tinters will take off the door panels, others will not. Both should be fine as long as good care is taken...

bingo

agreed

a little off topic ... but has anyone tinted their windshield?? i know there was one person from florida that did it - i live in texas and it is h-o-t, but that sounds like you're just ASKING to get pulled over ...

Tint laws vary state to state. Similar to stupidity on these threads.

Well....I took the door panels off anyway. He said he prefers the door panels off so he can tint well below the window....that way it doesn't risk the chance of peeling at the seal. It only takes 10 min. to take the door panels and it's a easy job. Make sure to use a door panel removal tool.... 5 bucks at Advance Auto.....there is no way to get your fingers in the door to pry it off and those clips are tight. I went with 20% all the way around including the moonroof. I also got a 20% strip on the windshield that comes down to the bottom of the rear view mirror. Hope that looks decent.....not sure though. Well...thanks for all the feedback!