Chevrolet The Next Spark Window Tinting Review — Cost & Results

Revitalizing Your Chevrolet The Next Spark with New Window Tint

Is your Chevrolet The Next Spark's existing window tint showing its age? Discolored, purplish tint not only looks unappealing but also loses its effectiveness in blocking heat and UV rays. In severe cases, deteriorating film can even pose health risks. This review details a window tinting refresh for a Chevrolet The Next Spark, focusing on the process, the chosen film, and what to consider when upgrading your car's appearance and comfort.

The Window Tinting Installation Process

The journey began with the removal of the old, degraded window tint. This is a crucial first step, especially on rear windows with defroster lines, where careful work is needed to avoid damaging the heating elements. Using a steamer helps soften the old adhesive, making removal more manageable. After peeling off the old film, meticulous cleaning is essential to remove any residual glue or debris, ensuring a smooth surface for the new tint application. This preparation is key to a flawless finish and long-term durability.

For this Chevrolet The Next Spark, the chosen film was Anygard AP80R, a type of ceramic tint known for its subtle, luxurious sheen. The tint was applied at 30% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) for the front windshield and 10% for the rear sides and back window. This combination offers a good balance between privacy, glare reduction, and maintaining outward visibility. The transformation was significant, giving the Spark a much more modern and premium look. The ceramic properties of the film also contribute to superior heat rejection film performance, keeping the interior cooler.

Why Consider a Window Tinting Refresh?

Window tint films typically have a lifespan of about 5 to 7 years. Beyond this, you might notice signs of aging like a purplish hue, peeling edges, or bubbling. These are clear indicators that the film is no longer performing its primary functions of UV protection and heat rejection effectively. Furthermore, degraded film can break down, shedding particles into the cabin, which is undesirable and potentially unhealthy. Replacing old tint ensures your vehicle maintains its aesthetic appeal and provides optimal comfort and protection from the elements.

When deciding on a window tinting service, it's important to consult with professionals. The choice of film material—whether it's dyed, metallic, carbon, or ceramic tint—significantly impacts cost, performance, and longevity. Discuss your priorities, such as maximum heat rejection, UV protection, or privacy, along with your budget, to select the best option for your Chevrolet The Next Spark. After installation, a thorough inspection of the work, checking for any issues with the defroster lines or the film's adherence, is recommended.

This particular tinting and black box installation was performed at a shop in Daejeon, South Korea. The total cost for the tinting service was approximately ₩300,000 (around $220 USD), with the black box installation adding an additional cost. The entire process, including the black box setup, took about 3 to 4 hours.