Best Car Tint Brand Philippines 2019: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Film

Best Car Tint Brand Philippines 2019: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Film cars.truckstrend.com

The Philippine climate, characterized by its intense tropical heat and scorching sun, makes car tinting not just a luxury but a near necessity for most vehicle owners. Beyond the obvious aesthetic upgrade, a good quality car tint offers a multitude of benefits, from significant heat reduction and UV protection to enhanced privacy and improved safety. As 2019 unfolded, the market for car tints in the Philippines was vibrant, offering a wide array of choices that promised varying degrees of performance and value. Navigating this landscape to determine the "best" could be a daunting task for many.

This comprehensive guide delves into the world of car tints as it stood in 2019, providing insights into what made a tint brand stand out, the key factors to consider, and a detailed look at the leading contenders. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge needed to understand why certain brands were lauded as the best, helping you make an informed decision should you be considering a tint upgrade for a vehicle from that era, or simply seeking to understand the market’s evolution.

Best Car Tint Brand Philippines 2019: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Film

Why Car Tinting Mattered So Much in the Philippines in 2019

In 2019, as in years prior and since, the primary drivers for car tinting in the Philippines remained consistent and compelling:

• Extreme Heat and UV Radiation: The tropical sun can turn a car’s interior into an oven, making drives uncomfortable and even dangerous. High-quality tints significantly reduce interior temperatures by rejecting solar heat, and crucially, block harmful UVA and UVB rays, protecting occupants from skin damage and the car’s interior from fading and cracking.
• Enhanced Privacy and Security: Tints offer a degree of privacy, shielding occupants and valuables from prying eyes, which can deter potential thieves. In 2019, with increasing awareness of vehicle security, this aspect became even more valued.
• Glare Reduction: The intense glare from the sun or headlights can impair a driver’s vision, leading to fatigue and increasing the risk of accidents. Tints effectively reduce this glare, improving driving comfort and safety.
• Shatter Protection: In the unfortunate event of an accident, car tint can help hold shattered glass together, preventing shards from flying and potentially injuring occupants. While not a primary safety feature, it adds a layer of protection.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Undeniably, a well-applied tint can dramatically enhance a car’s overall appearance, giving it a sleeker, more sophisticated look.

Defining "Best": Key Factors in 2019

When evaluating car tint brands in 2019, several critical performance indicators and considerations determined their standing in the market:

• Total Solar Energy Rejection (TSER): This is perhaps the most crucial metric. TSER measures the total amount of solar energy (visible light, infrared, and UV) rejected by the film. A higher TSER percentage indicates better heat rejection. In 2019, consumers were increasingly looking for tints with TSER values of 50% or higher, especially for premium options.



• UV Rejection (UVR): Virtually all quality tints offer high UV rejection (99% or more), which is essential for protecting skin and interior materials.
• Visible Light Transmission (VLT): VLT indicates how much visible light passes through the tint. Lower VLT means darker tint. In 2019, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) still had regulations regarding tint darkness, particularly for the windshield, emphasizing the need for balance between privacy/heat rejection and compliance/visibility.
• Optical Clarity: The "best" tints offered exceptional clarity, free from distortion, haze, or ‘orange peel’ effect, ensuring clear vision, especially at night.
• Durability and Longevity: Premium tints were expected to resist scratching, bubbling, peeling, and fading for many years. Manufacturers’ warranties played a significant role here, reflecting their confidence in the product’s lifespan.
• Signal Friendliness: With the rise of GPS, RFID, and mobile phone usage, tints that did not interfere with electronic signals (common with some metallic tints) were highly preferred. Ceramic and carbon tints excelled in this aspect.



• Brand Reputation and Warranty: Established brands with a long history of quality and reliable warranty support were naturally favored. A comprehensive warranty covering bubbling, peeling, cracking, and color change was a strong indicator of a brand’s commitment.
• Value for Money: While price was a factor, "best" didn’t always mean cheapest. It often meant finding the optimal balance between performance, features, and cost.

Top Car Tint Brands in the Philippines in 2019

In 2019, the Philippine market was dominated by several international brands renowned for their quality and performance. While local brands existed, the premium and high-performance segments were largely led by these global players:

1. 3M Car Tint:

   • Background: A global conglomerate, 3M has been a pioneer in window film technology for decades. In 2019, 3M was arguably the most recognized and trusted tint brand in the Philippines.
   • Key Features (2019): 3M offered a range of films, from their traditional Color Stable (carbon-based) series known for its non-fading properties and signal friendliness, to the premium Crystalline series. The Crystalline series, while virtually clear, boasted exceptional TSER (up to 60%) and UV rejection, making it a top choice for those wanting maximum heat rejection without significant darkening. Its multi-layer optical film (MLOF) technology was a game-changer.
   • Pros: Excellent heat rejection (especially Crystalline), superior optical clarity, no signal interference, long-lasting color stability, extensive warranty, wide availability through authorized installers.
   • Cons: Premium pricing, particularly for the Crystalline series.
   • Target Audience: Consumers seeking top-tier performance, reliability, and brand assurance, willing to invest in a premium product.

2. V-Kool Car Tint:

   • Background: A brand synonymous with spectrally selective window film technology, V-Kool gained significant popularity for its ability to reject heat while maintaining high visible light transmission.
   • Key Features (2019): V-Kool’s films primarily used advanced metallic coatings to selectively filter out infrared (heat) and UV rays while allowing visible light to pass through. Their flagship product, V-Kool 70, offered a clear appearance with impressive TSER.
   • Pros: Outstanding heat rejection, high optical clarity (especially for lighter films), maintains vehicle’s original aesthetics, good UV protection.
   • Cons: Can be very expensive, some metallic films might cause minor signal interference (though less common with their advanced lines), limited authorized installers compared to 3M.
   • Target Audience: Luxury car owners and those who prioritized maximum heat rejection with minimal darkening, willing to pay a premium.

3. Llumar Car Tint:

   • Background: A leading brand under the Eastman Performance Films umbrella, Llumar has a strong global presence and is known for its wide range of high-quality films.
   • Key Features (2019): Llumar offered diverse product lines, including dyed, metallized, and ceramic films. Their Ceramic series (e.g., CTX) was popular for its balance of high heat rejection, no signal interference, and excellent durability. They also had films catering to different budgets and performance needs.
   • Pros: Wide range of options for various budgets, good heat rejection across their premium lines, strong warranty, good optical clarity, reputable brand.
   • Cons: Performance varies significantly between their different film series, so careful selection was necessary.
   • Target Audience: A broad market, from those seeking a reliable, mid-range tint to those desiring high-performance ceramic options.

4. Solar Gard Car Tint:

   • Background: Another well-established global brand, Solar Gard is part of Saint-Gobain, a large multinational corporation. They offered a comprehensive line of automotive films.
   • Key Features (2019): Solar Gard’s offerings included traditional, metallized, and ceramic films. Their VortexIR and HP (High Performance) series were popular for their heat rejection and durability. They emphasized scratch resistance and long-term color stability.
   • Pros: Good heat rejection, strong scratch resistance, durable, decent warranty, competitive pricing for their performance.
   • Cons: Might not offer the absolute highest TSER compared to 3M Crystalline or V-Kool’s top tiers, but still very competitive.
   • Target Audience: Consumers looking for a reliable, high-performance tint that offers excellent value for money.

Types of Car Tints Available in 2019

Understanding the different types of films was crucial for making an informed decision in 2019:

• Dyed Tint: The most basic and affordable. It absorbs solar heat but fades over time and offers minimal heat rejection compared to advanced films.
• Metallized Tint: Contains tiny metal particles that reflect heat. Offers good heat rejection but can interfere with GPS, mobile phone signals, and RFID tags (e.g., for tollways).
• Carbon Tint: Utilizes carbon particles for color and heat rejection. Offers stable, non-fading color, good heat rejection, and no signal interference. A popular mid-range option.
• Ceramic Tint: The premium choice in 2019. Infused with ceramic particles, it offers superior heat rejection without using metals, thus eliminating signal interference. It provides excellent clarity, durability, and UV protection.
• Crystalline/Spectrally Selective Tint: A specialized type (like 3M Crystalline or V-Kool) that selectively rejects infrared and UV rays while allowing a high percentage of visible light through. Ideal for those who want maximum heat rejection without a dark appearance.

Choosing the Right Tint for Your Car in 2019

Selecting the "best" tint was highly subjective and depended on individual needs and priorities:

1. Define Your Priorities: Was heat rejection paramount? Or was privacy more important? What about budget?
2. Understand LTO Regulations: In 2019, while strict enforcement varied, it was advisable to adhere to LTO guidelines regarding Visible Light Transmission (VLT) for safety, especially on the windshield and front windows. Generally, lighter tints were required for the front, and darker for the sides and rear.
3. Consider Your Budget: Tints ranged from a few thousand pesos to upwards of P30,000 for a full car with premium films. Set a realistic budget.
4. Evaluate Performance Metrics: Always ask for the TSER, UVR, and VLT percentages for the specific film you are considering. Don’t rely solely on the darkness.
5. Seek Professional Installation: This cannot be stressed enough. Even the best tint film will perform poorly if not installed correctly. In 2019, reputable tint shops were key. They provided dust-free environments, skilled technicians, and honored warranties. Avoid cheap, roadside installers.

Installation Process and Aftercare (as practiced in 2019)

A professional installation in 2019 typically involved:

1. Preparation: Thorough cleaning of windows, removal of any old tint (if applicable).
2. Cutting: Precision cutting of the tint film to match window dimensions, often using computer-aided cutting machines for accuracy.
3. Application: Spraying the window with a slip solution, applying the film, and carefully squeegeeing out water and air bubbles.
4. Curing: Post-installation, the film needs time to fully adhere and dry. In 2019, installers would advise keeping windows rolled up for 3-5 days (or even longer during cooler, rainy weather) to allow the adhesive to cure completely.

Aftercare Tips (2019):

• Do not roll down windows for the recommended curing period.
• Avoid cleaning the tinted windows with ammonia-based cleaners, as these can damage the film. Use mild soap and water or specialized tint cleaners.
• Use a soft cloth or microfiber towel for cleaning.
• Be gentle around the edges to prevent peeling.

Challenges and Solutions

Even in 2019, challenges existed for car tint consumers:

• Counterfeit Products: The market had its share of fake or substandard films. Solution: Always purchase from authorized dealers or reputable tint shops that can provide genuine brand warranties.
• Poor Installation: Bubbling, peeling, and dirt trapped under the film were common issues from unprofessional installers. Solution: Choose installers with a proven track record, good reviews, and professional facilities. Ask about their warranty on workmanship.
• Signal Interference: Metallic tints could cause issues with electronic signals. Solution: Opt for carbon or ceramic films if signal integrity is a concern.
• Fading/Discoloration: Cheap dyed tints were prone to fading to purple or turning hazy. Solution: Invest in carbon or ceramic films from reputable brands that offer color stability warranties.

Estimated Car Tint Price Table Philippines 2019 (Full Car – Sedan/SUV)

Please note: These are estimated price ranges for a full car (excluding windshield only) in 2019. Actual prices varied significantly based on the specific film series, vehicle type (sedan, SUV, van), installer’s reputation, and location.

Brand Name	Tint Type/Series (Examples)	Estimated Price Range (PHP, Full Car)	Key Features (2019)
3M	Color Stable (CS)	₱ 8,000 – ₱ 15,000	Carbon-based, excellent color stability, good heat rejection, no signal interference. Popular for value and performance.
	Crystalline (CR)	₱ 25,000 – ₱ 40,000+	Premium, virtually clear, highest TSER (up to 60%), exceptional heat rejection, no signal interference. Flagship product.
V-Kool	VK Series (e.g., VK70)	₱ 30,000 – ₱ 50,000+	Spectrally selective, high visible light transmission with superior heat rejection. Often used for windshields.
	K-Series	₱ 15,000 – ₱ 25,000	Good balance of heat rejection and value, some metallic properties.
Llumar	ATR (Metallized)	₱ 7,000 – ₱ 12,000	Good heat rejection, durable, cost-effective. May have minor signal interference.
	CTX (Ceramic)	₱ 15,000 – ₱ 25,000	Ceramic technology, excellent heat rejection, no signal interference, high clarity, good durability.
Solar Gard	HP (High Performance)	₱ 8,000 – ₱ 15,000	Good heat rejection, scratch resistant, durable.
	VortexIR (Ceramic)	₱ 18,000 – ₱ 30,000	Advanced ceramic, superior heat rejection, excellent clarity, no signal interference.
KDX	Black Pearl (Carbon/Ceramic)	₱ 5,000 – ₱ 10,000	Popular emerging brand in 2019, good value for money, decent heat rejection for its price point.

Disclaimer: These prices are rough estimates for 2019 and serve only as a general guide. For precise pricing, it was always best to contact authorized dealers and installers directly for a quote specific to your vehicle and desired film.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Car Tinting in 2019

Q1: What does VLT mean, and how does it relate to LTO regulations in 2019?
A1: VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission, indicating the percentage of visible light that passes through the tint. In 2019, while there wasn’t always strict, uniform enforcement, LTO guidelines generally encouraged higher VLT (lighter tint) for windshields (e.g., 70% VLT) and front side windows (e.g., 50% VLT) for safety and visibility, especially at night. Rear windows and back side windows could be darker. It was crucial to balance privacy/heat rejection with compliance.

Q2: Can car tinting affect my car’s electronics or RFID/GPS signals?
A2: Yes, some older metallized tints could interfere with GPS, RFID tags (like those for tollways or parking), and mobile phone signals. In 2019, carbon and ceramic tints were widely recommended as they do not contain metals and thus do not cause signal interference.

Q3: How long does car tint typically last?
A3: The lifespan of car tint varies significantly based on its quality and type. A high-quality ceramic or carbon tint from a reputable brand (like 3M, V-Kool, Llumar) professionally installed could last 5 to 10 years or even longer without bubbling, peeling, or significant fading. Cheaper, dyed tints might only last 1-3 years.

Q4: Is darker tint always better for heat rejection?
A4: Not necessarily. While darker tints block more visible light, visible light only accounts for a portion of solar energy. Advanced ceramic or spectrally selective films (like 3M Crystalline or V-Kool) can be very light (high VLT) but offer superior heat rejection (high TSER) by blocking infrared rays more effectively than dark, basic tints.

Q5: Can I remove old tint myself?
A5: While possible, it’s generally not recommended. Improper removal can damage the defroster lines on the rear window or leave stubborn adhesive residue. Professional removal involves specialized tools and solutions to safely and cleanly remove old tint.

Q6: What’s the main difference between dyed, metallic, carbon, and ceramic tint?
A6:

• Dyed: Basic, absorbs heat, fades, low performance.
• Metallized: Reflects heat with metal particles, good performance but can interfere with signals.
• Carbon: Uses carbon particles, good heat rejection, stable color, no signal interference.
• Ceramic: Premium, uses ceramic nanoparticles, excellent heat rejection, high clarity, durable, no signal interference.

Conclusion

In 2019, the "best" car tint brand in the Philippines was not a singular entity but rather a collection of top-tier brands, each excelling in different aspects and catering to varied budgets and preferences. Brands like 3M, V-Kool, Llumar, and Solar Gard consistently led the market with their innovative technologies and reliable performance. The shift towards ceramic and spectrally selective films marked a significant advancement, offering superior heat rejection without compromising clarity or signal integrity.

Choosing the right tint in 2019, as it is today, was an investment in comfort, protection, and aesthetics. It required understanding the key metrics like TSER and VLT, aligning choices with personal priorities and budget, and crucially, opting for professional installation from an authorized dealer. By making an informed decision, car owners in 2019 could significantly enhance their driving experience, ensuring a cooler, safer, and more private journey on the scorching Philippine roads.