Choosing the Right Car Window Tint: Key Regulations to Know!

If you've ever looked for a way to make your car look cool and safe at the same time, installing window tint might be the perfect choice. Combining style with functionality, this addition can be very useful for your beloved car. Although it seems like a complementary accessory, car window tint also offers many other benefits.No wonder many people install window tint on their car windows to gain these benefits.

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How Many Types of Car Window Tints Are There?

When it comes to types, window tint can be divided into two main categories. First, window tint based on function. Second, window tint based on features offered. Divided into seven different types, here are their explanations.

1. Car Window Tints Based on Function

Based on its function, window tint is categorized into safety film, heat rejection film, and artistic film. Here is a brief explanation:

  • Safety Film: Offers up to 90% darkness. This type makes it difficult for people outside the car to see inside, thus enhancing privacy. It is often referred to as a safety film.
  • Heat Rejection Film: As the name suggests, it absorbs heat and reflects ultraviolet rays. With its embedded technology, it keeps the car cabin cool.
  • Artistic Film: Also called decorative film, it's used to make the car look more stylish. Options vary based on taste and preference. However, since it is purely decorative, other functions are secondary.

2. Kaca Film Mobil Berdasarkan Fiturnya

The technology used in window tint products also gives different characteristics to each type. In this category, they are divided into VLT, UVR, IRR, and TSER, with the following explanations:

  • VLT (Visible Light Transmittance): This type allows light to enter the car, letting you see outside clearly while preventing outsiders from seeing in. It varies in darkness levels up to 80%.
  • UVR (Ultraviolet Rejection): Blocks ultraviolet rays from entering the car. It comes in different percentages, with higher percentages offering more UV protection.
  • IRR (Infrared Reflectance): Filters infrared rays from sunlight, preventing them from entering the car. Similar to UVR, higher percentages provide greater protection.
  • TSER (Total Solar Energy Rejected): Offers protection from sunlight across various spectrums. Its intensity varies with the percentage offered.

Recommended Darkness Levels to Prevent Theft

The darker the tint, the better it is for protection against theft. It makes it harder to see inside the car, deterring potential thieves. However, there are clear government regulations regarding the allowable darkness levels for car window tint. It's important to be aware of these to avoid legal issues.

Law No. 22 of 2009 on Traffic and Road Transport

This regulation states that the maximum allowed darkness for car window tint is 40% for the front windshield and 70% for the side and rear windows. These percentages are set to ensure visibility for the driver and prevent accidents. Violating these limits can result in strict enforcement actions.

Minister of Transportation Decree No. KM.439/U/Phb-76 on the Use of Glass in Motor Vehicles

There are six main points in this regulation:

  1. Vehicles with front, rear, and side windows must use glass that is shatter-resistant, transparent from both sides, and does not distort the view.
  2. Tinted or film-coated glass is allowed if it transmits at least 70% of light.
  3. Exceptions apply for the front and rear windows, which must transmit at least 40% of light in the upper part, not exceeding one-third of the window's height.
  4. Materials used for tinted coatings must not create new reflections beyond what clear glass would normally have.
  5. Vehicle owners are prohibited from attaching anything to the windows unless for government purposes, and even then it must not obstruct the driver's view.
  6. The percentage of light transmission refers to the ratio of light passing through the glass compared to the light before it passes through.

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Considering your need for protection and the applicable regulations, the decision is ultimately yours. The ideal recommendation is to follow the maximum levels allowed by Indonesian law.

Given the many functions of car window tint, now might be the time to install a new tint for better protection. Besides protection from sunlight and maintaining privacy, it also offers protection from impact, fuel savings, and aesthetic value. Importantly, window tint helps protect your car’s cabin from prying eyes and potential theft. Along with the right window tint, it’s also highly recommended to have suitable vehicle insurance, like SmartDrive Insurance from AXA Insurance Indonesia. This insurance provides protection from damage and third-party liability, ensuring maximum protection for your beloved car. Ensure the best protection, and hopefully, this article is helpful!

References:

  • https://auto2000.co.id/berita-dan-tips/jenis-kaca-film-mobil
  • https://www.suzuki.co.id/tips-trik/memahami-kelebihan-dan-kekurangan-jenis-kaca-film-mobil?pages=all
  • https://nissan.co.id/artikel/artikel-afs/fungsi-dan-istilah-kaca-film-untuk-mobil.html
  • https://otoklix.com/blog/kaca-film-mobil-terbaik/
  • https://auto2000.co.id/berita-dan-tips/tingkat-kegelapan-kaca-film-mobil
  • https://astraotoshop.com/article/tingkat-kegelapan-kaca-film-mobil
  • https://lifepal.co.id/media/kaca-mobil/