Should You Apply Film to the Car's Front Windshield?
3 Answers
It is not recommended to apply film to the car's front windshield. This is because standard vehicle glass requires a light transmittance of over 70%, while the front windshield itself typically has a light transmittance of around 75%. Therefore, any film applied must have a light transmittance exceeding 90%. Applying low-quality film to the front windshield not only fails to provide the intended benefits but can also interfere with the driver's visibility, significantly increasing the risk of traffic accidents. The front windshield differs from other car windows as it is made of laminated glass, whereas other windows use tempered glass. Laminated glass consists of two or three layers of glass bonded together with a transparent adhesive plastic film, combining the toughness of plastic with the hardness of glass, thereby enhancing the glass's resistance to breakage.
I often get asked whether the front windshield should be tinted, and I believe this requires careful consideration. First and foremost, safety comes first—some local regulations outright prohibit overly dark tints because they can obscure visibility at night, especially during rain or fog. I've seen numerous accident reports indicating that tinted cars exhibit slower reaction times during emergency braking at night. Then there's the issue of light transmittance—the front windshield is already designed as high-safety glass, and adding film might actually increase the risk of shattering. If tinting is absolutely necessary, opt for a transparent UV-protective film with at least 70% light transmittance to ensure it doesn’t compromise driving visibility—this is far more reliable than pure black tints. In short, for safety’s sake, my advice is to avoid tinting if possible—it saves both hassle and money.
I have always been a loyal fan of window films, and the windshield film has brought a lot of convenience to my driving life. Its biggest benefits are sun protection and heat insulation, especially in summer when direct sunlight significantly reduces the interior temperature. With the film, I can set the air conditioning lower, saving both fuel and money. UV protection is also crucial—after applying the film, my skin doesn't feel as scorched as before, and the interior ages more slowly. Privacy is another plus, as it becomes harder for others to peek inside. I recommend reputable brands like 3M or LLumar, prioritizing films with high light transmittance—clear yet not too dark, which is very practical. The cost is just a few hundred yuan, but the long-term savings on air conditioning make it a worthwhile investment. Additionally, car films enhance driving comfort and reduce fatigue, offering multiple benefits in one go.
