Tesla Window Tinting San Antonio
Understanding the Challenges and Solutions
Tinting the windows of Tesla vehicles poses unique challenges that require both expertise and specialized knowledge. These challenges are driven by the distinctive design and advanced technology that Tesla vehicles embody. Here at Fletch Window Tint, our customers rely on us to provide expert installation of window tint on all Tesla models. We have literally tinted hundreds of Telsa’s. In fact, several of our team members own and drive Tesla’s, so we truly know the vehicles inside and out. Our clients often commend us for doing an amazing job and providing outstanding customer service. Below, we explore the reasons why tinting Tesla windows is a complex process. We will take a deep dive into tinting each model, but first let’s look at Tesla’s as a whole, and what makes them a challenge to tint.
Unique Curvature and Size
Advanced Technology and Sensors
Tesla windows are often equipped with sophisticated sensors and cameras that assist in driver safety and autonomous driving features. These sensors can be located on the interior of the windshield and around the windows, making it essential to apply the tinting film without obstructing or interfering with their functionality. Any obstruction can compromise the vehicle’s performance and safety features. Additionally, window tinting can protect against harmful UV rays without obstructing the sensors, providing significant protection against UV exposure and reducing glare for drivers and passengers.
High-Voltage Battery Safety
Tinting the windows of an electric vehicle like a Tesla also entails additional safety considerations due to its high-voltage battery.
Proper care and precautions must be taken to avoid any electrical interference or damage during the tinting process.
This necessitates training and tools specifically designed for electric vehicles.
Professional Expertise
Seeking the services of professionals who have experience with Tesla vehicles is highly recommended.
These experts are familiar with the intricacies and have the necessary tools and techniques to ensure a high-quality tinting job.
Customers often report having such a great experience with professional Tesla window tinting services.
High-Quality Tinting Films with UV Protection
Window Tinting The Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 can be quite challenging to tint. The doors are “frameless”, meaning there is no frame above or to the side of the door window. However, with frameless windows the windows pivot up and down upon opening and closing the door. This can be a challenge, because the windows need to be in the up position when tinting them. When the door is open the windows pivot or shift slightly down. The windows then pivot up when the door is closed. An experienced tinter tricks the window into thinking the doors is closed by simply triggering the door latch. Great care needs to be exercised however to never attempt to close the door with the window in the up position. This can result in damaging the exterior trim or even shattering the glass. At Fletch Window Tint, our installers are very experienced with tinting the Model 3, and we ensure that great care is provided so that your Tesla is never damaged. Additionally, using window films can help reduce solar heat in the Tesla Model 3, enhancing comfort and protecting the interior.
Tinting The Tesla Model Y
The Model Y feature frameless doors as well. One thing to point out is that the rear doors and rear window already have privacy glass. While privacy glass offers a measure of privacy, heat rejection is at a bare minimum. Since it only reduces visible light, it does not block infrared or UV. Most privacy glass allows between 20% to 22% of the visible light to pass through but very little heat rejection. Since privacy glass is not a film, it can be tinted over with no removal needed. Most people choose to tint over their privacy glass for added privacy and optimum heat rejection. With ceramic films, the glass can be darkened or not darkened at all and heat rejection can still be achieved. Using 3M™ window tint for the Tesla Model Y enhances safety, reduces interior heat, protects against UV rays, and improves privacy.
A unique feature of the Model Y is the large panoramic roof which extends from the front of the vehicle all the way to the back. This roof can be tinted. The roof already has some protection from visible light as it is not entirely clear. However, there is no protection from UV or infrared heat, so it is quite common for Model Y owners to apply film to the roof.
This must be done in one large piece of film that is the equivalent to two windshields. Shrinking this oversized piece of film, without distorting the film can be challenging for many window film installers. Extra time and care is required in both shrinking and installing the film for the roof. Another extremely important requirement is protecting the interior of the vehicle. When the film is applied to the roof, it is imperative that seats and all upholstery is protected from excessive moisture. At Fletch Window Tint we always cover all seats and interior surfaces to minimize moisture contact. We utilize seat covers made especially for this purpose.
The front windshield on the Tesla Model Y is also quite large and curved. Great care must be taken to protect the dash, and front screen from moisture. At Fletch window tint we use a cover that is designed for the front screen to protect it from moisture.
We also use a dash cover and a specialized micro fiber “rope” that we install between the windshield and the dash at the bottom of the window to minimize the risk of moisture getting behind the dash. It is extremely important to protect the interior of a Tesla since it has a substantial number of on-board computers.
Tinting the
Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is considered the luxury line of Tesla models. It typically comes with front and rear screens. Both screens need to be protected from moisture during the installation process. We use a waterproof screen protector like the one featured below to protect the screens from being affected by moisture.
Protecting the inside of a Model S is extremely important. The leather, and finishes can be damaged with excess moisture. This is especially true when installing film on the large roof. Covering seats is equally important as water will drip from the roof as the squeegee is applied to the film.
The Tesla Model S does not feature privacy glass, so all side windows and rear window are clear. The roof however does have privacy glass, but again adding a layer of ceramic tint to the roof will offer UV protection and enhance heat rejection by blocking infrared heat. Paint protection can also safeguard the vehicle’s exterior from scratches and chips, preserving its appearance and enhancing its longevity.
As with the Model 3 and Y the windshield is also quite large and curved. Great care must be taken to protect the dash from moisture. At Fletch window tint we use a cover that is designed for the front screen to protect it from moisture. We also use a dash cover and a specialized microfiber “rope” that we install between the windshield and the dash at the bottom of the window to minimize the risk of moisture getting behind the dash. It is extremely important to protect the interior of a Tesla since it has a substantial number of on-board computers.
Tinting the Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X is also considered the luxury line of Tesla models. The Tesla Model X is without question the most challenging Tesla to tint. What makes the Tesla Model X difficult to tint is the front windshield. The extra large windshield seamlessly extends into the front sunroof above the driver and front passenger seats.
The front windshield is extremely large and is made more difficult by a plastic trim piece that extends down the middle of the windshield. This windshield is typically a two-man installation. Extra time is needed to properly install the film, and an extra set of hands is required.
The Tesla Model X also adds a layer of difficulty with its “gull wing” doors. The doors each have roll down window and a small sunroof incorporated. This requires extra time and difficulty. The Tesla Model X does feature privacy glass, so choosing the correct shade is important as too dark of a shade can limit nighttime visibility dramatically. Best practices for maintaining and cleaning tinted windows on the Tesla Model X include using appropriate methods to avoid damaging the tint and ensuring visibility remains clear.
Again, proper care must be exercised to ensure that the interior surfaces and electronics are properly protected prior to tinting the Model X.
Professional Installation with Tesla Vehicle Experts
We tint, and drive Tesla’s here at Fletch Window Tint. We consider ourselves Tesla enthusiasts that take pride in every Tesla we tint. Tesla window tinting in San Antonio offers significant benefits, including UV protection, heat reduction, and enhanced privacy, which are essential due to the intense heat and sun in the region.
Protecting the interior of a Tesla is high on our priority list. We always follow the proper protocol to protect the interior of each Tesla we tint. Also, we utilize a state-of-the-art plotter to cut all windows on the vehicles. You can rest assured that your vehicle will never be damaged by the careless hand of an installer.
In conclusion, while tinting Tesla windows presents certain challenges, they can be effectively managed with the right knowledge and approach. By understanding the unique aspects of Tesla vehicles and employing best practices, owners can achieve the benefits of window tinting without compromising their vehicle’s functionality or safety. Our comprehensive window tinting services in San Antonio ensure improved comfort, UV protection, heat reduction, and increased privacy for all types of vehicles and homes.
