So I've been shopping for a tint place....

[piaadoll]

Last time I got tint, it was from Tints R Us over a decade ago. I actually had to get the tint redone (under warranty) after a few years, but I figured I should look at other spots.

Browsing the forums and yelp, I've a called a couple places.

*I requested quotes for all the windows except for windshield
*I'm thinking I prefer a 3M film
*Prices have gone up (obviously)
*Appts are scheduled way in advance.


Here's what I found out so far:

Mr. Tint / San Jose
http://www.yelp.com/biz/mr-tint-san-jose
Llumar or Solargard
special going on right now: $300
"our prices start at $250 for the two back doors and all the windows behind it. If you are looking at the front 2 as well, our prices usually run an additional $150. Currently, we are running a discount of $100 if you get the whole car done so, with the discount, runs $300 for all the side windows and rear windshield.
We have about 5-6 different shades that you can choose from either SolarGard or Llumar. When you come in we can walk you through the different options.
All our window film work comes with a lifetime warranty for any bubbling, peeling, as well as our workmanship."

Automall Tint Specialist / Fremont
http://www.yelp.com/biz/auto-mall-ti...int+specialist
3M FX Premium non-metallic, though they offer other types
$380 charge / $360 Cash
"The price to tint the rear doors, rear quarters and back glass is $270 if you charged it or $250 including tax if you can pay with cash. The front doors are an additional $120 for the pair. If you do the complete job, the total is $380 charge or $360 cash including tax.We use the 3M FX Premium non-metallic film due to the increased electronics in newer vehicles. This film is guaranteed not to affect any factory electronics and carries a lifetime warranty. "

Auto Image Window Tint / Belmont
http://www.yelp.com/biz/auto-image-w...inting-belmont
3M Color Stable , they offer other films
$375 (phone quote)
$400 ceramic
Booked through December, but had an opening this Saturday (darnit, I'm out of town this weekend)

ACJ window Tint / Hayward
http://www.yelp.com/biz/acj-window-t...2?osq=acj+tint
I left my notes at work (Can't remember what film)
$240 (phone quote)

Omega Werks / Dublin
http://www.yelp.com/biz/omega-werks-pleasanton
Llumar
$420 (phone quote)

Quality Auto Glass & Tint /Santa Clara
http://http://www.yelp.com/biz/quality-auto-glass-and-tint-santa-clara
Quoted on phone per Mike. $250 3M FX. / $300 3M Color Stable

Silicon Valley Auto Glass & Tint / San Jose
http://www.yelp.com/biz/silicon-vall...lley+auto+tint
"The estimate for your car tint is $389 plus tax. The process takes about 4 hours."
**Did not provide what type of film though


GT Auto Concepts / Redwood City
http://www.yelp.com/biz/gt-auto-concepts-redwood-city
$380 (SunTek)

Rocky Mountain Windowtint / Livermore
$399 / Ceramic
http://www.yelp.com/biz/rocky-mounta...+mountain+tint
Wait time - 4-5 weeks out

On my pending list:
Elite Auto Films Fremont
http://www.yelp.com/biz/elite-auto-films-fremont

Best Image San Mateo
http://www.yelp.com/biz/best-image-s...osq=best+image



More to come...

I've been so out of the market, are these the prices everyone else has been paying?

I guess I'll have to browse the other forums for tint pictures!

Thanks for checking my thread!

[YelloJello]

I got ceramic (forgot brand) at Mr. Tint. I'm happy with them, just have to make appointment as they are pretty busy.

[piaadoll]

I got ceramic (forgot brand) at Mr. Tint. I'm happy with them, just have to make appointment as they are pretty busy.

What made you go with Ceramic? I'm wondering if business slows down in the winter hmmmm.

[Furly]

Quality Auto Glass & Tint
3295 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA 95051

i've had my last 5 cars tinted here.
they do amazing work. they use high quality 3M tint.
they have very good prices. wont be disappointed.

[jomama229]

how many windows are you getting tinted for the price quoted?

[mr_milo]

Rocky Mountain Windowtint
4749 Bennett Dr. Ste M
Livermore,Ca 94551
925-373-2577

www.rockymtnwindowtint.com

I've had two cars done recently here and Matt is great at what he does but usually has a wait for an appointment. His prices are in line with what you are seeing using Formula One Pinnacle Tint.

By the way, I chose Formula One Pinnacle Tint for the heat rejection and Matt is one of the only authorized Formula One installer in the area.

[andre5]

Nice to see a familiar OG name.

+1 for Automall Tint Factory. They've tinted all of my cars since 2001. They also have a shop in San Leandro if it's more convenient. Owner Sidney Lee had a Laser Red B5 S4 back in the day when I still had my Pearl White B5 S4. Good times, good memories.

Good luck with your search!

[webmouth247]

Low price auto In Dublin is good.

[piaadoll]

how many windows are you getting tinted for the price quoted?

Hi Jomama229! My quotes are for all windows except front windshield.


Furly and mr_milo : i will call your leads! Thanks!!


andre5 : whoah! you still go on here? nice to see ya!

[jomama229]

Hi Jomama229! My quotes are for all windows except front windshield.

thanks...i totally brainfarted. was still wearing my Q5 hat when i posted in the regional forum. i need just my two front windows tinted as the rears are factory dyed, thus my seemingly odd question.

[noshadow]

Elite Auto Films in Fremont
http://www.eliteautofilms.com/

They are now the McLaren tint/xpel installer for the bay area as well. I got a full XPEL wrap + 3m Crystalline tint from them. Many of my friends have the same.

[LINDW4LL]

Premier Mobile Group in Fremont does incredible work. They use Spectra PhotoSync which has incredible heat/UV rejection. They also do clear bras which may be a smart option for your new A3.

They do a ton of high end cars and are one of the best in the industry; but they will be a little pricier than most of the options listed above.

http://www.premiermobilegroup.com/sp...stallers.shtml

[speedydragon]

wow so pricey now. I remember getting tinted 5 windows for $180 out the door in sf. but that shop is now out of business :|

[ericw.]

Best Guys in Concord uses Llumar tint. They did mine (forget the cost) and it came out good I think. They're also a stereo shop and installed my amps, speakers, and aux input mod for me. I had to vag com myself to enable aux input though. They're not equipped with vag com but are a very capable custom audio and tint shop.

[YelloJello]

I got ceramic because it's supposed to be better blocking heat, which it does great, but not sure if its greater than my last regular tint. The clarity I think is a bit clearer. It was $400 for all windows except front windshield for my 2013 S5. By the way, my last regular tint at some place in San Mateo was like $130 for all windows on my previous S5 back in 2008, which was pretty good too.

I did pay another $200 for 80% ceramic on my front windshield later. It doesn't affect visibility at all, and you definitely feel a lot less heat on your skin. But I don't have it anymore because my windshield got replaced under warranty, and I'm not sure I want to dish out the cash again. You also have to be very careful scratching the front windshield when washing them. It's much more bothersome than getting scratches on the side windows.

[piaadoll]

thanks...i totally brainfarted. was still wearing my Q5 hat when i posted in the regional forum. i need just my two front windows tinted as the rears are factory dyed, thus my seemingly odd question.

No worries! it's all good!

Elite Auto Films in Fremont
http://www.eliteautofilms.com/

They are now the McLaren tint/xpel installer for the bay area as well. I got a full XPEL wrap + 3m Crystalline tint from them. Many of my friends have the same.

I'll give them a ring and add to my list above. Thanks!

Premier Mobile Group in Fremont does incredible work. They use Spectra PhotoSync which has incredible heat/UV rejection. They also do clear bras which may be a smart option for your new A3.

They do a ton of high end cars and are one of the best in the industry; but they will be a little pricier than most of the options listed above.

http://www.premiermobilegroup.com/sp...stallers.shtml

I was going to call them, but my friend just had their E class MBZ tinted there...cost them $790. I heard it was pricey, but not THAT pricey.

wow so pricey now. I remember getting tinted 5 windows for $180 out the door in sf. but that shop is now out of business :|

I know!!! Omg, i think i paid $200 for mine at Tints R Us.


Will research Llumar and ceramic tints. Thank you guys!!

[dluxxx]

Go to best image in san mateo. they do all my cars and if you pay cash they will do five windows (front, back, and rear) for $150.

[piaadoll]

Go to best image in san mateo. they do all my cars and if you pay cash they will do five windows (front, back, and rear) for $150.

$150!? Whoah, should I be worried? Jk! I've added to my list. Thx!

[BlkdoutS4]

Watson's Window Tinting in Santa Cruz. Gordon is an absolute perfectionist!

[mr_milo]

Rocky Mountain Windowtint
4749 Bennett Dr. Ste M
Livermore,Ca 94551
925-373-2577

www.rockymtnwindowtint.com

I've had two cars done recently here and Matt is great at what he does but usually has a wait for an appointment. His prices are in line with what you are seeing using Formula One Pinnacle Tint.

By the way, I chose Formula One Pinnacle Tint for the heat rejection and Matt is one of the only authorized Formula One installer in the area.

Thought I'd add a Yelp link for your list.... http://www.yelp.com/biz/rocky-mounta...nt-livermore-2

[Stubek]

Quality in Santa Clara did my car. He has also done quite a few friends' cars and even replaced one friend's windshield 4 times because he keeps getting it broken on 101.

It is also about half a mile from my house

[2BblkAudis]

I've had all my cars done by Vince at Omega for the past 15-18 years. His work is quality and very good customer service. Give him a call again and ask if he can give you forum pricing. Let him know Kenny recommended him and he might be able to give you a better deal. Cash will also help bring the cost down.

[dluxxx]

http://www.yelp.com/biz/best-image-san-mateo

that is their help page... apparently you can maybe haggle and have them done for $120 cash. ive had it on my mazda and a6... my pops used them for his quattroporte and 348 spider. so far no problems with any of their applications. if you go during the weekend its first come first serve so get there early. if you go during the weekdays you can make an appointment.

[snopyro]

http://www.yelp.com/biz/silicon-vall...ing-san-jose-2

Silicon Valley Auto Glass (and Tint). Talk to Art (the owner). They bake on their tint (so you can start rolling down your windows right away) and cut the tint at the edge of each window (no 1 cm gap between the edge of the tint and edge of window). I've done over 6 car tinting jobs and window replacements with them. (I believe that they do the tinting for the local BMW and Lexus dealerships which show their quality.) Quotes may be a bit higher, but definitely worth the cost.

[piaadoll]

Thought I'd add a Yelp link for your list.... http://www.yelp.com/biz/rocky-mounta...nt-livermore-2

a coworker just recommended them as well! I think I'll give them a hollar. thanks!

[ericw.]

Best Guys in Concord uses Llumar tint. They did mine (forget the cost) and it came out good I think. They're also a stereo shop and installed my amps, speakers, and aux input mod for me. I had to vag com myself to enable aux input though. They're not equipped with vag com but are a very capable custom audio and tint shop.

ahem
bump for these guys.
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-best-guys-concord
Awesome reviews, did well on my tint and does amazing custom audio work also. Located in Concord. The local dealerships bring their cars here and they also offer a guarantee.

[piaadoll]

Watson's Window Tinting in Santa Cruz. Gordon is an absolute perfectionist!

Sounds like it! Would be an added bonus if I can mountain bike while my car is being tinted.

Quality in Santa Clara did my car. He has also done quite a few friends' cars and even replaced one friend's windshield 4 times because he keeps getting it broken on 101.

It is also about half a mile from my house

Does that mean you'll give me a ride to the mall? Jk!!!

I've had all my cars done by Vince at Omega for the past 15-18 years. His work is quality and very good customer service. Give him a call again and ask if he can give you forum pricing. Let him know Kenny recommended him and he might be able to give you a better deal. Cash will also help bring the cost down.

Good to know! Thanks!! Will do if I decide to go with Vince.

http://www.yelp.com/biz/best-image-san-mateo

that is their help page... apparently you can maybe haggle and have them done for $120 cash. ive had it on my mazda and a6... my pops used them for his quattroporte and 348 spider. so far no problems with any of their applications. if you go during the weekend its first come first serve so get there early. if you go during the weekdays you can make an appointment.

Will research, thanks!!

http://www.yelp.com/biz/silicon-vall...ing-san-jose-2

Silicon Valley Auto Glass (and Tint). Talk to Art (the owner). They bake on their tint (so you can start rolling down your windows right away) and cut the tint at the edge of each window (no 1 cm gap between the edge of the tint and edge of window). I've done over 6 car tinting jobs and window replacements with them. (I believe that they do the tinting for the local BMW and Lexus dealerships which show their quality.) Quotes may be a bit higher, but definitely worth the cost.

Thanks Pat! I added the info onto my list.

ahem
bump for these guys.
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-best-guys-concord
Awesome reviews, did well on my tint and does amazing custom audio work also. Located in Concord. The local dealerships bring their cars here and they also offer a guarantee.

I'm sure they thankful for the plug, though they are a bit further than my max mileage radius from San Jose. I'm sure others in the Bay Area who are shopping for that area, will definitely give them a ring.


Oh man! I wish as I was as impulsive as i was 11 years ago with my A4. I must be getting picky in my old age.

Thank you all for your help!! Welcome to more suggestions and helpful hints. So much to think about!

[ericw.]

Probably a bit far for tint but I drive to San Jose from Walnut Creek for Sprint Auto Works.
If you read Best Guys reviews though, you can tell they have awesome service. One person complained about having to pay extra fees to their kid's school since their stereo install took too long and they couldn't pick up the kids on time. Owner of Best Guys replied to the review and offered to pay all the school fees. That's a level of service you're not going to find at just any tint/stereo shop.

[piaadoll]

I'm so wishy washy! Thankfully, it's not as hot out so I can take my time researching tint. Thinking of going Ceramic.....

I asked neoprufrok about Auto Image in Belmont and he wasn't too happy. Apparently, they left a 3M watermark on his tint.
He recommended GT Concepts that tinted both his NSX and Maclaren.
I think my car would be intimidated by all the fancy cars at the shop. LOL

Asked for a quote at Rocky Mountain Tint in Livemo and haven't heard back, might have to give them a call.

I'll keep looking and keep you guys posted on where I end up.

[noshadow]

I asked neoprufrok about Auto Image in Belmont and he wasn't too happy. Apparently, they left a 3M watermark on his tint.

Some info about 3M watermarks: traditionally it has been known for people to want the 3M watermark to be left on, much like when people put a ton of stupid decals on their door to show off what mods they have. So I know a lot of shops who leave them on because so many clients want it. I've had this happen to me everytime I've gotten the tint from 3M at various shops. I always tell them to get rid of it and they understand completely.

At the end of the day, you'll realize all the research will never find the absolute perfect tint, but then again, at some point the differences are negligible. If it's damn hot outside and you have to park in the sun, there's little any tint can do to help it anyway. It's still gonna be hot as hell in there.

[ericw.]

After tint, expect electrical issues. My headlights and dash lights kept turning off/on, and I got a CEL because of the water in the doors. Better to do it early on a hot day.

[piaadoll]

Some info about 3M watermarks: traditionally it has been known for people to want the 3M watermark to be left on, much like when people put a ton of stupid decals on their door to show off what mods they have. So I know a lot of shops who leave them on because so many clients want it. I've had this happen to me everytime I've gotten the tint from 3M at various shops. I always tell them to get rid of it and they understand completely.

At the end of the day, you'll realize all the research will never find the absolute perfect tint, but then again, at some point the differences are negligible. If it's damn hot outside and you have to park in the sun, there's little any tint can do to help it anyway. It's still gonna be hot as hell in there.

Exactly! I think I'm in it for looks in the long run (and for taking naps in the back seat - hmmm not sure if I can do that in my A3...though I fit perfectly in my A4 lying across the back seat)

After tint, expect electrical issues. My headlights and dash lights kept turning off/on, and I got a CEL because of the water in the doors. Better to do it early on a hot day.

That's the thing that's keeping me from pulling the trigger! I'm not used to all the fancy electronics in my car and want to make sure everything works after it's tinted...and after it rains. I came across a thread on Fourtitude where an A3 owner got his warranty voided and the Audi dealership blamed his tint! It's a super long story, but you just never know!

[ericw.]

rain isn't an issue since it rains on the outside of the car. tint is applied to the inside of the glass so a lot of water ends up squeegeed into the doors in the process. Only you can decide whether it's worth the risk or not. ;)

The odds are unlikely that you'll have any long term issues but I'd recommend that the first night you don't drive, since with my experience my headlights were turning off/on at random intervals.

[jnm]

Sorry if someone has already posted this (didn't read all the way through the post).

Highly recommend this place if you are up for a little drive. Had my Avant done there and it came out perfect. Really clean and professional job. Can't remember the total cost but I think it was around 300.

http://www.yelp.com/biz/precise-auto...sq=window+tint

[NorCal1.8T]

I've taken my cars to http://www.marinautotint.com/ for the past 10 years, no complaints. The owner is a one man team using 3M film with warranty. He has charged me $180 for all 5 windows over the years but I believe regular pricing may be $200 for all windows, significantly lower most of Bay Area.

[mr_milo]

After tint, expect electrical issues. My headlights and dash lights kept turning off/on, and I got a CEL because of the water in the doors. Better to do it early on a hot day.

Sounds like the installer didn't do too good of a job of preventing the water intrusion. So water will always get in but enough to cause problems sounds like they were a bit careless.
That's one thing I was very worried about but Matt at Rocky Mountain used LOTS of towels to keep as much water as possible from ending up in the car. I didn't have a single issue with anything electronics related on either the BMW or Audi I had tinted there.

[piaadoll]

So I have this pending still. Can't make up my mind, though it seems I am leaning towards Rocky Mountain in Livermore. We'll see where I end up

[ericw.]

Sounds like the installer didn't do too good of a job of preventing the water intrusion. So water will always get in but enough to cause problems sounds like they were a bit careless.
That's one thing I was very worried about but Matt at Rocky Mountain used LOTS of towels to keep as much water as possible from ending up in the car. I didn't have a single issue with anything electronics related on either the BMW or Audi I had tinted there.

yeah whatever attempt to prevent water intrusion on mine didn't work. it was all dried up and back to normal by the next day though. I think it's just chance. Tint requires water and unless they're taking your door apart to apply the tint, then there's no way that they can prevent water in the doors.

[UncleTed]

Best Guys in Concord are just that, the Best Guys. I have had tint on 3 of my cars done there. All came out great. 3 other friends went there and theirs were also great. No problems with water/electrical problems.

I have also had audio work done there and they are great at that too. First rate shop all the way.

[blai76]

Still pending? I had my car done at Auto Image Window Tint in Belmont. $400 all around minus windshield with suntek carbonXP. Impressed with how clean their work area was. Mostly sealed room, they open at 10am on Saturday. I brought my car in at 9:55am, nd one of the two guys working there was cleaning their already clean work area, and misting the floors to prep to work on my car, a common practice by professional body shops prepping for paint work to reduce dust in the garage. My avant which was brought into a semi-sealed clean-room for the work. Very professional. If there was a con, it was the fact it took 3 months for my appointment. Five stars on Yelp is meaningful, though.