calvin2376

iTrader: (2)

I know MD is very restrictive on window tinting, and that it requires all windows to allow more than 35% of light through. I know this because I bought my last car, an E55, used in VA and it had 35% tint all around, which I assumed would be OK, but 35% + stock window tinting it ended up being about 30% LTV - I was actually required to get it tested at the police station to pass inspection.

Here's my question: I see tons and tons of cars in MD with tinted windows, of all combinations and varieties. Some are lightly tinted, maybe 35% all around, and some are limo-tinted all around. In addition, pretty much all SUVs and minivans come from the factory stock with 5% tint on the rear and back windows.

1) What's your experience with window tint in MD? Is your car tinted and if so, how much? Ever have problems?

2) How does MD account for the fact that every SUV and minivan comes from the factory with 5% tint on the rear and back windows? As far as I can tell, this is in clear violation of MD law, so I'd think police should be pulling over every soccer mom that passes by in her Odyssey or LX.

AaronN

MD law only requires 35% on the front windows and windshield, I believe. 5% elsewhere. If you want I can search for the actual regulations.

calvin2376

iTrader: (2)

If you could find that, I'd be very interested, because that runs counter to the following references...

http://www.tintcenter.com/laws/MD/
http://www.berwynheightspd.com/tinted%20windows.htm
http://www.mva.maryland.gov/About-MV.../58000-04T.htm
http://www.tintlaws.com/laws/MD/
http://www.ehow.com/list_6150753_win...-maryland.html
The repair shop where I got my car inspected
The police station I had to take it to and which gave me a work order to remove the tint
The MD DMV
The tint shop that removed my tint

AaronN

You are kind of right:

COMAR 11.14.02.14
.14 Vehicle Glazing.

(i) Passenger cars, convertibles, and station wagons-any window and the top of the windshield above the AS1 line or within 5 inches from the top of the windshield, whichever is less, provided: the tinting is not reflective, is not red, yellow, or amber in color; when used in conjunction with the safety glazing the light transmittance is at least 35 percent; a label provided by the tinting material manufacturer 1/2 x 1-1/2 inches containing the manufacturer's name and the percentage of light transmittance is permanently installed in the top left corner of the windshield and the lower front corner of all side windows and the lower left of rear windows when viewed from the outside; the label is installed between the tinting and glazing materials; and the vehicle is equipped with an outside rearview mirror on each side.

The issue is this is all referring to aftermarket tints, I will try to locate the regulations for factory tints later.

calvin2376

iTrader: (2)

That's good to know, and that answers my question about stock tints. I didnt know there was a distinction made in MD between factory and aftermarket tints. The sources I referenced above are in fact all pertaining to aftermarket.