Should I get my windows tinted?

[razzledazzlebee]

I am contemplating getting my windows tinted. I do have light sensitivity and sometimes get headaches because of the sunlight in the car. This does not happen all the time, and I do wear sunglasses. Those of you with tinted windows, what types of differences have you noticed? Any advice/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[razzledazzlebee]

Also, does anyone have pics of a Seaside Pearl with tinted windows?

[JimboK]

I had tinting done to help keep it a little cooler in the summer, reducing the need to run the AC somewhat, hence helping fuel mileage; and for privacy. A side benefit is that it dims the brightness of headlights from cars behind me at night. I have the auto-dimming mirror, but it doesn't always dim as much as I'd like.

I have a seaside, and I have a picture somewhere, but not with me (it's probably on my laptop in my car). Meanwhile, here's a pic from a fellow PC member, efusco.

[efusco]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(razzledazzlebee @ Mar 1 2007, 12:49 AM) [snapback]398316[/snapback]</div>

Also, does anyone have pics of a Seaside Pearl with tinted windows? [/b]

I think it helps keep the car a little cooler in hot weather...ultimately helping fuel economy somewhat. I absolutely think it makes the car look nicer. When you lightly tint the back upper hatch glass it helps balance the light to the tint of the lower glass improving rear visibility. If you throw in a medical reason for tinting then I think this is a no brainer...you should be able to get it done for around $200.

http://www.pbase.com/efusco/prius_only <-- Lots of photos

[galaxee]

yep, i've got a medical reason. we have yet to tint the windshield (required prescription, now requires money :P) but the rest of the windows are tinted.

i couldn't drive without it anymore, and on black it looks really nice.

[CMonster]

I have the Seaside Pearl, and had the tint done before delivery. The car feels cooler, I think it looks sleeker, and I'm hoping it will protect the interior from long term sun damage.

There's also an intangible feeling - like it's a little more ... I dunno... soothing, protected, private. Like you're rolling around in the shelter of a comfortable little cave. I know that sounds wacky, but my point is that I really like the tint and I think anybody would.

[JimboK]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(CMonster @ Mar 1 2007, 09:53 AM) [snapback]398428[/snapback]</div>

There's also an intangible feeling - like it's a little more ... I dunno... soothing, protected, private. Like you're rolling around in the shelter of a comfortable little cave. [/b]

What I didn't say previously: Where you can pick your nose without being seen.

[razzledazzlebee]

Thanks for all the advice. Yeah, it does look good on the blue. I'll keep you guys updated on my decision.

[subarutoo]

I guess I'm the only guy in the world that hates tinted windows. To me it cheapens the car and gives it the gangsta look. I know there are lots of benefits, sensitive eyes, theft deterent, etc, etc. That's just my opinion, since you asked. I like to see the people driving next to me, whether they're shaving, cell gabbing, picking their nose, or whatever. Also I hate following tinted car windows because you cant see thru them for traffic stops, etc. The effectiveness of third brake lights are negated when cars have tinted windows. I have taken demo drives in cars with tinted windows, one at night on the freeway, and didn't like the view at night, and my wife agreed. My flame suit is on, but that's the way I see it.

[CMonster]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(subarutoo @ Mar 2 2007, 03:36 PM) [snapback]399207[/snapback]</div>

I like to see the people driving next to me... Also I hate following tinted car windows because you cant see thru them for traffic stops, etc. [/b]

I think you're picturing a much darker tint than what most of us have. If you can't see through the windows, the car wouldn't pass inspection in NC and other states.