Most Car Window Tints Don’t Block UV Rays - XPEL Has the Answer

Most Car Window Tints Don’t Block UV Rays - XPEL Has the Answer originally appeared on Autoblog.

How to beat the heat during summer drives

UV rays are present year-round while driving, and they’re most intense during the summer months, increasing the chances of vehicle materials, such as leather, dashboard surfaces, or plastic, fading and cracking. Drivers can also suffer skin damage without proper window protection. Most original equipment manufacturer (OEM) car window tint doesn’t significantly block UV rays or reject heat, but XPEL’s window tint blocks heat, 99% of UV rays, and is available in various grades, including clear.

XPEL’s PRIME automotive window film blocks over 99% of harmful UVA and UVB rays by using an advanced nano-ceramic technology, which simultaneously reduces solar heat. You also won’t have to worry about signal interference, either, for connectivity features like Bluetooth. XPEL’s PRIME XR PLUS nano-ceramic tint is available in 5, 15, 20, 30, 35, 45, 55, and 70 VLTs (Visible Light Transmissions), with 5 being the darkest. PRIME XR BLACK is available in 5, 15, 20, 30, 35, 45, 55, and 70 VLTs. Those looking for the clearest shade may prefer PRIME XR BLUE, which is available in 70 and 80 VLTs.

According to XPEL, its window tint can allow drivers to enjoy up to 60% less heat inside their cars. A recent test found that XPEL PRIME film made a Mazda MX-5’s interior register 15 degrees cooler than that of an unprotected, identical vehicle. XPEL XRand XR+ block 99% of harmful UV rays and reduce glare by 95%. Regarding heat rejection, XPEL XR blocks up to 64%, while XR+ rejects up to 70%. This heat rejection enables air conditioning to work more efficiently, which is especially important for extending the range of electric vehicles. While some may prefer a clearer shade, others opting for a lower VLT or darker film can receive more privacy. Local tint laws vary, so check your state’s rules before committing to a specific VLT. Still, if you’re considering a clearer shade with something like 70 VLT, you’re likely to comply with front window tinting laws in most states.

Why factory tints fall short

It’s easy to overlook the benefits of quality automotive window film, but doing so puts drivers in a loop of instances like burning themselves with the metal part of a seat buckle, or blasting air conditioning for five or 10 minutes to get some relief. Not only is OEM window tint ineffective for blocking UV rays, but automakers generally leave front-side windows, sunroofs, and windshields untreated, solely darkening rear and back windows. Even if you don’t find yourself uncomfortable during summer driving, investing in window film helps maintain your vehicle’s resale value.

Final thoughts

Most OEM tints leave drivers exposed to UV rays and heat year-round, and this problem is most noticeable during summer. XPEL offers an innovative solution with its PRIME window film that uses multi-layer nano-ceramic particle technology. In addition to rejecting heat and blocking up to 99% of UV rays, drivers can select a clear shade and retain these benefits, while those prioritizing style and privacy can choose a lower VLT for an ideal balance of form and function.

Most Car Window Tints Don’t Block UV Rays - XPEL Has the Answer first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 10, 2025

This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 10, 2025, where it first appeared.