Car window tints have become necessary for most car owners for a more convenient and safer ride. The use of tinted windows helps reduce the sunlight penetration, thus reducing the temperature inside the car.
However, it is an offence if you violate the regulation of tinted windows set by the Road Transport Department (JPJ).
Hence, to help you secure the best and JPJ-approved car window tints, we share in this article important information on car window tints and the regulation of the use of car window tints according to the JPJ.
Meaning of VLT, UV and IR in car window tints
Before tinting your car windows, it is important that you are aware of the terms Visible Light Transmission (VLT), Ultraviolet (UV) and Infrared (IR) as explained below:
Visible Light Transmission (VLT)
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is the percentage rate of light that can penetrate a car window.
The lower the percentage rate of VLT tinted car mirrors, the lower the percentage rate of light that can penetrate the mirrors, thus making the mirrors darker.
You are encouraged to get a car window tint with a lower VLT percentage rate, subject to the limit by the JPJ.
A car window tint with a lower VLT percentage rate will reduce sunlight penetration. This can reduce glare and make your driving more comfortable.
Ultraviolet (UV)
Ultraviolet (UV) is part of the spectrum of electromagnetic waves emitted by the sun. Excessive UV exposure can affect the skin or eyes.
The UV value of a tinted car window indicates the percentage rate of UV that can penetrate the window.
The higher the percentage rate of UV tinted car mirrors, the lower the rate of UV radiation that can penetrate the mirrors.
We recommend you get window tints with a higher percentage rate of UV tint.
A higher percentage of UV tint will reduce the penetration of UV radiation. In addition to lowering the temperature in the car, this can help reduce health risks such as skin cancer.
Infrared (IR)
The percentage rate of Infrared (IR) refers to the amount of heat that can penetrate the car window.
The higher the percentage rate of IR tint, the lower the heat level in the car.
We encourage you to get window tints with a higher IR tint percentage.
This is to reduce the heat in your car. In addition to being able to drive in a cooler car, this can save fuel consumption when you no longer need to use the air conditioning at its maximum level.
Types of car window tints
There are various types of car window tints in the market that have their own advantages. In general, all types of car window tints have the same basic functions. However, their effectiveness and price may differ.
Shared below are 5 types of car window tints for your choice:
Ceramic Window Tint Film
Ceramic Window Tint Film is able to block almost 99% of UV radiation and is more effective in preventing the penetration of heat and sunlight. It is said to reduce nearly half the temperature in the car. This type of window tint can also reduce the level of glare without having to increase the percentage rate of the visible light transmission tint.
In addition, ceramic tinted mirrors do not fade easily and do not interfere with radio signals. This type of window tint is also able to increase the durability of the mirror.
Ceramic Window Tint Film is sold at a higher price.
Carbon Window Tint Film
This tint film consists of fibre particles and is effective in preventing the penetration of sunlight.
This window tint film has excellent insulating properties. It is claimed to reduce around 40% of the temperature in a car.
In terms of aesthetic value, carbon-type tinted mirrors have a matte finish, visible from the outside. This type of mirror also does not fade easily.
The price of Carbon Window Tint Film is also more expensive befitting its quality.
Dyed Window Tint Film
Dyed Window Tint Film consists of several layers of dyed film that absorb sunlight that penetrates the mirror.
This type of window tint has a limited ability to block the penetration of sunlight. It also fades more easily and needs to be replaced after a while.
The price of a Dyed Window Tint Film is relatively lower.
Metallized Window Tint Film
Metallized Window Tint Film has micro metal particles that function to reflect sunlight and is more effective than a Dyed Window Tint Film.
In addition, Metallized Window Tint Film can withstand scratches and protect the car window. However, the use of this type of window tint can interfere with radio or GPS (Global Positioning System) signals.
Hybrid Window Tint Film
Hybrid Window Tint Film combines the Dyed Window Tint Film and Metallized Window Tint Film. Several layers of dyed film are interspersed with thin metal layers.
Even though a Hybrid Window Tint Film is an upgraded version of the Dyed Window Tint Film and Metallized Window Tint Film, this hybrid tint can interfere with radio signals more than the Metallized Window Tint Film.
In terms of price comparison, Hybrid Window Tint Film is more expensive than Dyed Window Tint Film but cheaper than Metallized Window Tint Film.
JPJ regulation on the use of car window tints
The following is the percentage rate of the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) for car window tints allowed by the JPJ:
For your information, the above regulation does not apply to public vehicles and commercial vehicles. These vehicle types can use tinted mirrors with a Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage rate of not less than 70%.
Procedure to apply for a darker window tint for driver’s side window
Should you need a darker window tint for the driver’s side window due to safety or health factors, you can submit your application to the JPJ.
For your information, each application for a darker window tint for safety reasons will be charged a security fee of RM50. Approved applications will be charged a fee of RM5,000 for a period of 2 years. After the expiration of 2 years, you will need to resubmit your application.
The following is a simple application procedure for the use of a darker window tint for the driver’s side window:
- Submit an application to the Secretariat of the JPJ & Branch Enforcement Division
- Furnish Form CG1 and attach it together with a copy of identity card and a copy of vehicle registration certificate card (grant)
- Make a separate application for each vehicle and sign each application form
- Submit supporting documents for applications made on safety or health factors for consideration
You may visit the JPJ’s official website to learn more about the conditions and guide to apply for a darker window tint according to the JPJ.
Consequences of violating JPJ regulation on car window tints
Should you violate the regulation by the JPJ for the use of car window tints, you can be fined not more than RM2,000 or imprisoned for not more than 6 months.
In addition, for a second and subsequent conviction, you can be fined not more than RM4,000 or imprisoned for not more than 12 months or both.
Comply with JPJ regulation on car window tints
We hope that our sharing through this article has helped you know more about car window tints. Apart from knowing about the types and how to choose car window tints, you must follow the regulation set by the JPJ. Remember that users who do not follow the JPJ specifications will be subject to action.
Additionally, if your car insurance has already expired or is about to expire, do not delay renewing your car insurance. Renew your car insurance online at Bjak in just 5 minutes. Get your free car insurance quotes at Bjak.my today.
