Window tint, explained for Seattle drivers
Straight answers about automotive window tint in the Pacific Northwest
No sales pitch, no prices. Just clear answers about what tint does, what Washington law allows, and how to care for it.
What is Ceramic IR window tint?
Ceramic IR window tint is a thin film applied to the inside of your car's windows. Its non-metallic ceramic construction blocks over 99% of UV and rejects up to 94% of infrared heat on the shades APC stocks, so the cabin stays cooler, glare drops and your interior is protected, all without interfering with your phone, GPS or toll pass. Every shade blocks the same UV. Darker shades reject a bit more heat, but even our lightest 70% film rejects 88% of infrared.
Who is behind this site?
Auto Tint Seattle is published by APC Auto Spa. APC Auto Spa is a Ceramic Pro certified installer of Ceramic IR window film. APC is certified with both STEK and Ceramic Pro and chooses the best product in each category rather than carrying one brand's whole catalog. APC has shops in Tukwila and Monroe. We built this site to answer the questions Seattle drivers actually ask, honestly, including where tint falls short. Read more about us.
All questions
- What is ceramic IR window tint, and how is it different from cheaper tint?
- How dark can you legally tint your windows in Washington?
- 15%, 25%, 35% or 70%: which tint percentage should I choose?
- How do you match factory privacy glass on the front windows?
- Window tint packages: Two to Match, Standard and Large
- How long does window tint take?
- When can I roll my windows down after tint?
- How is window tint installed? Does it go on the inside?
- What does a lifetime tint warranty cover?
- How do you clean tinted windows?
- Can you tint a windshield in Washington?
- Does tint interfere with cameras, sensors or phone signal?
- Can you tint a Tesla?
- Can you tint a sunroof or glass roof?
- Is window tint worth it in Seattle's gray weather?
- Can you remove old, purple or bubbling tint?
- Is factory privacy glass the same as window tint?
- Can you tint over rear defroster lines?
- How long does Ceramic IR window tint last?
Frequently asked questions
- Who publishes this site?
- Auto Tint Seattle is published by APC Auto Spa, which has shops in Tukwila and Monroe, Washington. APC Auto Spa is a Ceramic Pro certified installer of Ceramic IR window film. APC is certified with both STEK and Ceramic Pro and chooses the best product in each category rather than carrying one brand's whole catalog.
- What is Ceramic IR window tint, in plain terms?
- A thin, non-metallic film on the inside of your windows that blocks over 99% of UV and rejects up to 94% of infrared heat, without interfering with your phone or GPS.
- How dark can I legally tint my front windows in Washington?
- Washington law sets the limit for front side windows at 24% visible light transmission on every vehicle.
- How long do I keep my windows up after tint?
- 2 to 5 days, depending on temperature and moisture. Cooler, wetter weather can take longer.
Reviewed by Heather Humphrey, co-owner of APC Auto Spa ยท Last updated October 2026
Heather has co-owned APC Auto Spa since 2015 and is trained in every service APC offers.