With the summer temperatures soaring to triple digits (over 100 degrees Fahrenheit), car detailing businesses in Los Angeles have become increasingly busy as many people opt for window tinting to combat the high heat and UV rays.
A1 Carplay’s manager, Li Haiqiang, pointed out that window tinting is an effective way to reduce the temperature inside the car and is a practical solution for dealing with the scorching heat of summer. “Without tinting, the temperature inside the car can easily rise to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which is not only unbearable but can also cause skin discomfort,” he stated.
Li Haiqiang emphasized that prolonged exposure to UV rays is not only harmful to human health but can also lead to fading, cracking, and aging of the dashboard and seats inside the car, as well as damage to electronic equipment. Tinting not only provides UV protection but also reduces the use of air conditioning, resulting in energy savings. It is an investment that offers both health and economic benefits.
He explained that the transparency level of tinted windows is clearly defined based on functionality and legal requirements. For example, dark tint films with 5% transparency are common in luxury cars, but California regulations stipulate that the front windows must have a transparency level of at least 70%, allowing only 30% tinting; there are no restrictions for rear windows and rear side windows. As for the front windshield, tinting is limited to the top 4 inches and must not be reflective.
“Some car owners prefer dark tint for increased privacy, but excessively dark tints can lead to violations and poor visibility at night, posing greater risks, especially for older drivers,” Li Haiqiang suggested that light UV-resistant tint films should be chosen for the driver’s seat and front windshield to ensure both sun protection and driving safety.
The demand for window tinting caters to a wide range of car owners, including those with European, Japanese, American, or electric cars, all showing interest in upgrading. A1 Carplay offers various packages to accommodate different budgets, such as tinting for two windows starting at $99 (tax included), as well as options for economy and high-end whole-car tinting starting around $200, with a lifespan of 5 to 8 years.
Addressing special needs, Li Haiqiang mentioned that car owners with UV allergies or medical requirements can opt for darker tint with a doctor’s certificate, but it is still advisable to consider nighttime driving safety.
In addition to tinting services, A1 Carplay also provides car interior upgrades, including installation of dash cams, upgrading infotainment systems, color changes, and ambient lighting design. For older models like Toyota Camry or BMW that were not originally equipped with CarPlay, the shop can install modules and integrate them with the factory system, without the need to replace the entire screen, facilitating functional enhancements without altering the original car structure.
For vehicles already equipped with CarPlay, the shop also offers interior beautification services such as ambient lighting. “Luxury cars like Mercedes-Benz and BMW come with variable-color ambient lighting at night. We can install similar features in regular cars to enhance overall aesthetics and driving comfort at night,” Li Haiqiang added.
He reminded car owners that while each state may have different regulations – for instance, Arizona allows a minimum transparency level of 33% – it is crucial to adhere to local standards in California. Window tinting is not just about aesthetics and privacy but is also a critical consideration for safety and protection. ◇