Toyota RAV4 Window Tint: The Ultimate Upgrade

Toyota RAV4 window tint is one of the coolest looking modification that you can do for your SUV. This amazing upgrade is multi-purpose in its use. Whether you are looking for something to preserve your privacy, block the scorching UV rays, or simply strike an upscale impression, this all-in-one modification does it all. 

In this article, I am going over why the so-called factory “tint” isn’t an actual tint and the benefits of getting an actual tint. Then, I’ll delve into the cost and shops that provide the tinting service and whether it is legal in your area.

Factory Tint

At close sight, RAV4’s rear windows may seem slightly tinted. This is more of an illusion as the windows aren’t actually covered by the tint film. The effect of tint comes from the use of dyed glass. 

This glass is placed to add a slight level of privacy to the rear passengers and reduce some of the effects of the harsh afternoon rays. And although it may do a bit, this low-key privacy and sun protection may not be enough to satisfy your needs.

To even out the tint with the rest of the windows, you may choose to tint the front ones as well to match up with the rear tint.

Percentage of the Tint

One twist that you might see when you first go to get your windows tinted is the fact that the higher the percentage 70% (usually the highest tint percentage) of the tint the lighter the tint that is put on the glass. Conversely, lower tints like 15% or 5% (usually the lowest percentage) mean darker tint color.

This is because the tint percentage is measured by Visual Light Transmission (VLT) which is the amount of light that passes through the window tint. This is why the percentage of the tint and light coming through it are inversely related.

Types of Toyota RAV4 Window Tint

There are several types of tint available on the market. These vary in material, cost, quality, longevity, and suitability to your climate.

Dyed Window Tint

• Appearance: It offers a darker appearance for your vehicle and improves your privacy.
• UV Protection: It gives average protection from UV rays, which helps to reduce the color of the interior from fading. Although it isn’t very effective it is an improvement.
• Heat Protection: It offers slight protection from heat by absorbing the sunlight. However, it is not as effective for keeping the vehicle cooler as compared to the other tints.
• Lifespan: With time, the dye can fade or change color. Especially when it is exposed to sunlight for a long time, which reduces its effectiveness making it less appealing.
• Price: It is the most affordable option, making it a great choice for those with a strict budget.

Metalized Window Tint

• Appearance: It gives a mirror-like finish that gives the vehicle a metallic and shiny look. Such a reflective surface gives your RAV4 an elegant and modern appearance.
• UV Protection: It gives an excellent protection from the UV rays. By blocking a remarkable amount of these rays, it preserves the interior from sun damage.
• Heat Protection: It has better heat-rejecting capabilities as compared to dyed tints because of the reflective nature of metal particles. This helps keep the interior much cooler.
•  Lifespan: The metalized tint has a much longer lifespan and doesn’t fade easily. However, it can get scratched earlier than the other types of tints.
• Signal Interference: The metal particles in the tint can interfere with the electrical signals which include GPS, radio, and Bluetooth. It may seem to be a small difference, but this can be an issue for some people.
• Price:  Due to its high quality, longer lifespan, and better performance, this tint is more expensive in comparison to the dye tint.

Ceramic Window Tint

• Appearance: This tint comes with a neutral, non-reflective finish, which keeps the RAV4s looking polished and elegant.
• UV Protection: This tint comes with the highest level of UV protection, which has the capability to block up to 99% of the harmful UV rays. It protects the car’s interior as well as the skin of the driver and passengers.
• Heat Protection: It is one of the best heat-blocking abilities, that significantly reduces the temperature inside the vehicle even on hot days. 
•  Lifespan: This tint is extremely tough and resistant to fading or discoloring over time. This tint ensures you a long-term performance and appearance.
• Signal Interference: In comparison to metalized tints, ceramic films do not weaken any of the electronic signals. Because of this ability, it is ideal for those users who rely upon GPS.
• Price: Ceramic tints are the most costly ones because of the advanced technology and materials that are used in their production.

Hybrid Tints

• Appearance: The hybrid tint is the combination of both metallic shine and the dark tone of the dyed tint. This combination offers a balance of keen aesthetics and cost-effectiveness.
• UV Protection: It provides impressive UV protection, but not as great as ceramic tint. It reduces the exposure to harmful rays and prevents the interior from fading.
• Heat Protection: It offers moderate heat resistance, which is better than dyed tints but not as much as ceramic tints. As it reflects heat, it also maintains a medium level of transmission of visible light. 
•  Lifespan: It offers better reliability than both the dyed and metalized tint, making it more resistant to discoloration and fading. However, it is not as durable as ceramic tint. 
• Signal Interference: Because it has some metal content in it, there could be a miner signal interference, but comparatively, it is better than those tints that are completely metal.
• Price: The cost of hybrid tints falls between dyed and metalized tints.

The best tint for your RAV4 depends on the qualities you are forward to achieving and your budget. Be wise and think through your options to make an informed selection.

Choosing the Tint Shade

Be mindful of the factory-added shade by the dyed glass on the rear windows as adding on top of it will add a darker hue. So if you are looking to get an even tint on the front and rears combined, you should keep this in mind. But, if you are unclear about deciding how much tint shade to get, I have a few tips for you to consider:

• 5%-15% tint shade is ideal for privacy and UV and heat protection, but it might be illegal in your state. It will make your RAV4 stand out for its sportier appearance.
• 20%-30% tint shade offers a good balance of style and UV protection while also giving your SUV a catchier look.
• 50%-70% tint shade will give some sun protection and almost no measurable privacy protection.

Benefits of Toyota RAV4 Window Tint

There are several benefits of getting a Toyota RAV4 window tint that you can achieve through this upgrade. I am listing all of these below:

• Protects the seats from fading from UV rays
• Protects the passenger’s skin from UV damage
• Eases leaving valuables in the car
• Safeguards your car interior
• Reduces heat exposure on hot days 
• Educes battery load by reducing the need for AC
• Reduces the amount of glare
• Adds a sense of privacy 
• Reduces chances of heat lock in the cabin
• Protects the glass from shattering by collision
• Adds a sleekier sportier appearance

Upgrade Cost

If you have made up your mind about choosing the window tint type and shade, you may want to take a look at the price tag of getting the tint. Here I have provided an estimate of the cost:

• Estimated $150-250 for the front windows
• Estimated $250-500 for all windows

I recommend checking with a few competing window tint stores to determine pricing in your area. Here are some factors that affect the cost of RAV4 window tints.

• Hourly Rate: Labor costs vary depending on the technician’s experience and the area. Working in dense urban areas is often more expensive than working in rural areas.
• Tint Film Quality: Choosing a branded tint will cost more but it will last longer and look better. It may not be necessary to choose an OEM tint but a reputable brand.
• Construction: Tints are made from different materials. Ceramic window tint is the most expensive, but it absorbs twice as much heat as hybrid or tinted window tint.
• Tint Percentage: Prices vary depending on the tint’s darkness.

Call your local window tint stores to see if they have any promotions that can save you some money. Also, if you are getting multiple services at once, you may be able to get a bundle. It never hurts to ask.

Where to Get a Tint From

When it comes to tinting your RAV4 windows there are a few ways of doing this. This depends on your level of expertise and budget. Here are your options:

• Visit a local tint shop or 
• Scheduling a Toyota dealership appointment
• DIY

I would personally recommend you take your car to a professional who can guide you on not only the type or percentage of tint to keep but also the laws of the state you live in so you may avoid road fines.

Tint Shops/Dealerships

If you have chosen to follow my recommendation and go to a tint shop or dealership to get the windows tinted, you might need to find these places first.

While a Toyota dealership won’t be hard assuming that’s where you bought your car from, you might want a more budget-friendly shop too.

A skilled local shop may be harder to find. Therefore, I suggest you search for shops that have positive reviews online or by asking your friends if they know of certified professionals. 

Also, remember to purchase materials only from the highest quality brands to ensure the perfect finishing look.

DIY Installation Tips

If you are looking to save your budget and do the window tints yourself, I am dropping a few tips here to help you ensure the perfect result.

Before Installation

• Park your car in a dust-free space
• Clean the window thoroughly
• Remove all dirt and grease

During Installation

• Ensure the tint is aligned when applying
• Make sure there aren’t any bubbles forming

After Installation

• Don’t roll down the windows for 3-5 days
• Use non-ammonia-based cleaners to protect the tint

Legal Considerations

In the United States, laws govern different states regarding the permitted VLT percentages. For this reason, you will have to search online resources or contact the legal authorities to check what percentage is legal before you tint your windows.

One thing to remember is that front windows usually have stricter rules than rear windows.

Remember, non-compliance can lead to road fines and mandatory removal of the illegal tints.

Potential Drawbacks To Consider

There can be a few drawbacks to tinting the windows of your SUV that I encourage you to consider before incorporating this upgrade. I am listing these below:

Difficulty while night driving: Tinting windows will make it more difficult to see at night especially if you tinted them too dark.

Violation of laws upon driving in a different state: If you ever consider going for a road trip in a different state, you may risk being charged by the police.

Potential impact on resale value: If the tints are not applied correctly or fade out, it can lead to a drop in the resale value as it may repel the buyers.

FAQs

Sources         

If you want to learn more about tinting car windows you may check the following links:

Family Handy Man

Motorbiscuit

Conclusion

Getting a Toyota RAV4 window tint is a great addition to your RAV4’s appearance. This upgrade adds privacy, protects from UV rays, safeguards your valuables, and much more. It also enhances the Toyota’s original tint adding to the aesthetics and practical benefits.

There are a few different types of window tints that you can look into. These are dyed glass, metalized, ceramic, and hybrid. These vary in terms of UV protection, climate suitability, heat resistance, budget, etc. 

The shade of the tint is also another consideration as the preexisting uneven shade by the factory (20% on rear windows only) also needs to be taken into account. 

You also need to consider the upgrade price which ranges from $150 to $200 for front windows and $250 to $500 for both front and rear. If you are not confident about DIY, you may get this done at a dealership or local shop. So, whether you upgrade the windows yourself or go to a certified professional, I wish you a happy upgrading experience!