Whether to give your car extra privacy or to be a bit more protected from solar radiation—among other benefits—window tinting has become one of the most in-demand services when it comes to caring for and maintaining a vehicle.
While the basic condition for this is that they must be approved tinted windows, regulations may vary depending on the geographical area. To learn more details about this, keep reading this Ralarsa article. As a car glass workshop, we tell you everything below!
Approved tinted windows
The first thing we should consider is what the law says. Article 19 of the General Traffic Regulation states that only adhesive films that are approved can be used. Otherwise, we may use blinds to protect ourselves from the sun on the rear windows, provided the car has two exterior mirrors for visibility.
Thus, it is only possible to tint the rear car windows, never the windshield or the front side windows. According to regulations, all glass must ensure clear visibility for the driver. Otherwise, you will not pass the ITV (vehicle inspection) and could receive fines of up to 200 euros, along with possible point deductions from your driving licence.
As with most rules, there are some exceptions. These are stated in the BOTE and affirm that official vehicles or security forces can have all windows tinted, as well as cases where the driver or passengers suffer from a medical condition that prevents direct sun exposure. In these cases, the relevant documentation must be presented.
Likewise, if the tinting has been carried out in a workshop after purchasing the vehicle, you must have a certificate from the manufacturer detailing: the model of the films installed, their technical characteristics, information about the workshop, the date, etc.
Why tint car windows?
Although darkened glass is often the choice of many drivers for purely aesthetic reasons, tinting car windows also has key benefits to consider given its importance for:
Reducing heat. Tinting car glass can help keep the interior temperature slightly cooler, as sunlight heat is blocked.
Protecting against UV rays. Linked to the above, approved and correctly installed window films protect both the car’s occupants and the upholstery, avoiding fading and wear.
Gaining more privacy. One of the most common reasons. With darker glass, both passengers and personal items enjoy greater privacy.
Reducing glare. By minimising sun glare, approved tinted windows improve driver visibility during trips.
Ensuring safety on every trip. In the event of a collision or accident, the glass will not shatter into dangerous pieces, thus reducing the risk for occupants and the driver.
Car glass workshop
As specialists in car glass for more than 40 years, we are your trusted centre to keep your vehicle in perfect condition for every trip. Here is, in brief, how the installation process for approved tinted windows goes:
First, we check that there are no elements that could interfere with the process and protect any areas of the car that could be stained or damaged. The glass to be tinted is thoroughly cleaned both inside and out to make it easier to stick the films.
Next, the films are placed to take measurements and cut, always leaving a few centimetres of margin. Heat is applied with a hot air gun reaching up to 300 degrees to correct any areas where creases remain. This is reinforced with a squeegee, ensuring the glass perfectly adapts to the surface shape.
Finally, the excess film is trimmed, and the outer layer is removed, letting the rest dry. For the inside surface, it is sprayed with soapy water, and the film is applied from the centre outwards. All that remains is to wait around two hours for it to dry.
We will give you the approval certificate upon completion. Now you know—count on our car glass workshop for any service related to your vehicle. We are here to help!
