Hyundai Elantra AD Window Tinting Review: Cost & Results

Revitalizing Your Ride: Why Window Tinting Matters for Your Hyundai Elantra AD

Over time, even the best car window tint can degrade, leading to issues like bubbling, peeling, and reduced visibility. This was the case for a 2017 Hyundai Elantra AD whose original 'coupon film' had reached the end of its lifespan. The tell-tale 'bubble' or 'ppong-i' phenomenon was not only unsightly but also significantly impaired the driver's view, posing a safety concern. Beyond aesthetics and visibility, aged, low-quality films can even break down, releasing dust particles into the cabin and emitting unpleasant odors. For this Elantra AD, a refresh was clearly in order to restore clarity and a clean appearance.

The Importance of Professional Installation: Prep and Removal

A crucial first step in any quality window tinting installation is meticulous preparation. Before any new film is applied, the existing tint must be carefully removed. This process involves using steam to soften the old adhesive, followed by gentle removal to prevent damage to the defroster lines on the rear window – a common point of failure with less experienced installers. Proper masking of the vehicle's interior and exterior is also essential to protect paint and trim from any accidental scratches or damage during the tint removal and application process. This attention to detail ensures a clean slate for the new film to adhere to perfectly.

Royal Series 701: A Smart Choice for Your Elantra AD

For this Hyundai Elantra AD, the chosen solution was the Royal Series 701 film, applied at a 30% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) for the front and 10% for the rear. This combination strikes an excellent balance, offering clear visibility from the inside while providing ample privacy from the outside. The results speak for themselves: a dramatically improved interior view and a sleek, refreshed exterior look. The installation was completed flawlessly, particularly on the rear window, showcasing the skill of the technicians. The Royal Series films are known for offering excellent performance for their price point, with newer options like the 901 series also available for those seeking even higher performance.

Installation Process:

1. Thorough cleaning and preparation of all vehicle windows.
2. Careful removal of any existing window tint film.
3. Precise cutting and application of the new window tint film.
4. Squeegeeing out all air bubbles and excess moisture.
5. Allowing the film to cure properly for optimal adhesion.

The Royal Series films are often available through a system where the film and installation are purchased online, then scheduled at a partner shop. This streamlined distribution model helps reduce overhead costs, allowing for high-quality window tinting at a more accessible price. While the specific cost for this Korean installation wasn't detailed in USD, similar services in the US typically range from $40 to $80 for basic tinting, with ceramic tint options costing more.