BMW 7 Series Window Tinting Review: Heat Rejection Film
Service Price
$115–150
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Before
After
Process photos
BMW 7 Series window tinting with Rainbow I90 ceramic film: approx. $115-$150. Excellent heat and UV rejection.
When is it Time to Re-Tint Your BMW 7 Series?
For owners of older luxury vehicles like a 2009 BMW F-body 7 Series, the original window tint may have long since lost its effectiveness. Over 15 years of sun exposure can degrade tint films, causing them to fade, lose their UV and IR rejection capabilities, and even turn a discolored brown. This was the case for the BMW 7 Series featured in this review, which had its original tint removed and replaced at the 'Today's Car' Gimhae branch. The old tint was not only ineffective against heat but also began to flake, creating a mess inside the cabin. When your car's tint shows signs of significant discoloration or degradation, it's a clear signal that a full re-tint is necessary to restore functionality and aesthetics.
The Importance of Proper Tint Removal and Installation
A successful window tinting job hinges on meticulous preparation, especially the removal of old film. The process at 'Today's Car' began with careful masking to protect the vehicle's interior and exterior. Removing 15-year-old, UV-hardened tint requires patience and precision to avoid damaging the glass or the defroster lines on the rear window. For this BMW 7 Series, the rear window, which had previously been tinted in sections, was re-tinted as a single piece for a cleaner, more professional finish. Preserving the delicate defroster elements on older vehicles is crucial, and thankfully, they remained intact during this removal process.
Rainbow I90 Ceramic Tint: Performance and Results
The chosen film for this BMW 7 Series upgrade was Rainbow I90, a black, non-reflective ceramic tint known for its exceptional heat rejection. Boasting an infrared (IR) rejection rate of around 90%, this film significantly reduces interior heat buildup, making the cabin more comfortable. It also provides excellent UV protection, safeguarding the leather seats and dashboard from sun damage, and enhances privacy. For this specific installation, a 33% tint was applied to the front windshield and 15% to the side and rear windows. This combination offers a balance between effective heat blocking and maintaining clear visibility for safe driving. The difference in cabin temperature and glare after the installation was dramatic, resolving the severe heat stress previously experienced, especially from the dashboard's direct sun exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does window tinting cost for a BMW 7 Series?
The estimated cost for this BMW 7 Series window tinting service in Korea was approximately ₩800,000 (Korean Won), which translates to roughly $115-$150 USD. Prices can vary based on the specific film chosen and the extent of the installation.
Q. How long does window tint last on a BMW 7 Series?
High-quality window tints, like the ceramic film used in this review, are designed for long-term durability, often lasting 10-15 years or more with proper care. To maintain its condition, regularly clean the windows with a soft, ammonia-free cleaner and avoid abrasive materials.
Q. Is ceramic tint worth the extra cost for a BMW 7 Series?
Ceramic tint is highly recommended for luxury vehicles like the BMW 7 Series due to its superior heat rejection and UV protection capabilities. The increased comfort and protection it offers often justify the higher initial investment.
Q. How is window tint installed on a BMW 7 Series?
Installation involves meticulous old tint removal, thorough cleaning of the glass, and precise application of the new film. The process includes masking the vehicle to prevent damage, carefully cutting the film to match the window shape, and using heat to shrink and adhere the film smoothly. Finally, the edges are trimmed for a clean finish.
Q. What is the difference between ceramic and dyed window tint for a BMW 7 Series?
Ceramic tint uses non-metallic ceramic particles to block heat and UV rays without interfering with electronics, offering superior performance and durability. Dyed tint uses a layer of dye to darken the windows and absorb some heat but offers less protection and can fade over time.
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