Selling a car often involves several considerations, and one common question is whether to remove window tints before putting the vehicle on the market. This article explores the factors to consider, the potential impact on the sale, and offers practical advice for car owners in the UK.

Legal Requirements for Tints in the UK

In the UK, there are specific regulations regarding the tinting of car windows:

• Front Windows: The front windscreen must allow at least 75% of light through, and the front side windows must permit at least 70% of light. If you have added tints that reduce these levels, they must be removed, regardless of whether you plan to sell the car.
• Factory Tints: Typically, factory-installed tints on front windows are the darkest permissible. Adding aftermarket tints that further darken these windows is illegal and must be rectified.

Market Preferences for Rear Window Tints

• Modest Tints: Many buyers appreciate modest tints on the rear windows as they help reduce heat and glare within the car.
• Dark Tints: Extremely dark tints, such as limo tints, are generally less desirable and can shrink the pool of potential buyers. Such tints can be perceived as less practical and may deter prospective buyers.

Issues with Window Tints

Poor Installation

• Aesthetic Problems: Poorly installed tints can bubble and crease, making them look unappealing. This can give the impression of poor maintenance and reduce the car’s attractiveness to buyers.

Difficult Removal Process

• Adhesive Challenges: The adhesive used in tints hardens over time, making removal difficult. Often, steam is required to soften the adhesive, and the process can be labor-intensive.
• Partial Removal Issues: It’s not uncommon to see cars with partially removed tints, where the seller has given up after struggling with the process. This incomplete removal looks unprofessional and can deter buyers.

Tint Lifespan

• Degradation: All window tints have a lifespan. Cheaper films can deteriorate faster, cracking and perishing due to UV exposure. This degradation can make the car look aged and poorly maintained.

Pros and Cons of Removing Tints

Pros

• Compliance: Ensures your car complies with legal requirements, particularly for front window tints.
• Wider Appeal: Makes the car more appealing to a broader range of buyers who may prefer standard windows.
• Professional Appearance: Avoids the risk of partial tint removal giving an unprofessional look.

Cons

• Time-Consuming: Removal can be a lengthy and labor-intensive process.
• Potential Damage: Risk of damaging the windows or defrost lines during removal.
• Cost: May incur additional costs if you hire a professional to remove the tints.

Steps to Remove Window Tints

1. Gather Tools: You’ll need a steamer, a glue remover, and a clean rag.
2. Heat the Tint: Use the steamer to heat the tint film. This softens the adhesive and makes the film easier to peel off.
3. Peel the Film: Start at a corner and slowly peel the tint film off the window.
4. Remove Residual Adhesive: Apply the adhesive remover to any remaining glue and allow it to penetrate. Use a rag to gently rub off the glue, repeating as necessary until the window is clean.

Our Final Thoughts

Quality of Tints

• Premium Films: If your car has a high-quality, professionally installed film that is lightly tinted, it might be beneficial to leave them in place.
• Dark Tints: Fully blacked-out rear windows generally decrease the car’s appeal to a broad audience. Exceptions might include specific vehicle types where dark tints are popular, such as fast hatchbacks within certain enthusiast communities.

Removing Tints

• Complete Removal: If you decide to remove the tints, ensure they are completely and cleanly removed. Incomplete removal can look unprofessional and deter potential buyers.
• Removal Techniques: Allocate several hours for the removal process. Using dedicated glue removers can help eliminate any residual adhesive, leaving the windows clear and clean.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while modest, professionally installed tints can add value to your car, poorly installed or extremely dark tints are likely to deter buyers. If you decide to remove the tints, do so thoroughly and properly to present your car in the best possible condition. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that enhances your car’s appeal and maximizes its sale potential.