Can the film provided by 4S stores be applied?
3 Answers
The film provided by 4S stores can be applied, for the following reasons: 1. Little difference from external films: Many people believe that films purchased online or from stores are better than those from 4S stores. Except for some products from major manufacturers, many films from small manufacturers are actually comparable to those from 4S stores, with little difference. 2. Car glass does not require high-quality film: Another common belief is that films from 4S stores have poor heat insulation and do not block UV rays. However, in reality, most car glass, especially the front windshield, has been treated, so the requirements for car films are not that high. This is also why many car front windshields are not covered with film.
I remember rushing to get the full car tint installed that the 4S dealership gave me when I picked up the car—felt like a great deal saving thousands. After a year of use, I realized this film really doesn’t hold up in summer. The sun would roast my arms while driving, and I had to crank the AC way up to stay cool. Later, a knowledgeable friend pointed out that these free films are usually just basic dyed tints with only about 25% heat rejection, unlike professional brands that can reach 50%. The worst part was during a heavy downpour—the poor light transmission became glaringly obvious, making it really hard to see through the rearview mirror. My advice: if the 4S shop offers free tint, go ahead and use it, but don’t expect much. Check the warranty too; most only cover one year, so if bubbles appear, get it replaced ASAP. For long-term use, it’s worth spending extra on a quality film—after all, it affects both driving comfort and safety.
Don't set your expectations too high for the free window tint from 4S shops, but it's fine as a temporary solution. My first car had the complimentary tint for over three years without major issues. However, there are key points to note: First, consider upgrading the windshield film yourself - free tints usually only have 70% light transmission, which reduces nighttime visibility. Second, rear window tinting may interfere with defroster wires - I've seen many cars with compromised rear defogging performance. Third, always verify the tint brand before signing the purchase contract, as some shops may substitute with unverified products. If they offer premium brands like V-KOOL, definitely take it. But most free tints are like the floor mats from 4S shops - just passable temporary solutions.
