Calculate your combined VLT to ensure compliance with Australian regulations (Queensland: minimum 35% VLT for front windows).
Ever walked up to a brand‑new car and wondered why the windows look a little darker than a plain glass pane? That subtle shade is not an after‑thought - it’s factory window tint built into the vehicle right from the assembly line.
Factory window tint is the built‑in shade that manufacturers apply to a vehicle’s windows during production. Unlike an aftermarket film that you can peel on yourself, this tint is integrated into the glass during the manufacturing process, often as a thin metallized or ceramic layer.
The main goal is to meet safety and comfort standards while keeping the vehicle’s look consistent across the model range.
Darkness is measured by Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is the percentage of visible light that passes through a tinted glass. A higher VLT means more light gets in; a lower VLT means a darker look.
In most Australian passenger cars, factory tint typically lands in the 70‑85% VLT range. That translates to a shade you can notice, but it still lets plenty of daylight into the cabin.
Because the tint is part of the glass, manufacturers can fine‑tune the exact VLT to meet both aesthetics and legal limits.
Aftermarket tint is a film applied by a dealer or installer after the vehicle leaves the factory. It offers more flexibility in darkness but brings its own set of trade‑offs.
| Aspect | Factory Tint | Aftermarket Tint |
|---|---|---|
| Typical VLT range | 70‑85% | 5‑70% (depends on film) |
| UV protection | Built‑in, up to 99% | Varies, often 99% with premium films |
| Heat rejection | Standard, about 30‑40% | 30‑70% with ceramic or metallic films |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty from manufacturer | Usually 5‑10years from installer |
| Legal compliance | Designed to meet local regulations | Must be installed within legal VLT limits |
| Cost | Included in vehicle price | $150‑$800 AUD depending on film |
The biggest advantage of factory tint is that it’s already legal and warranty‑protected. Aftermarket film lets you go darker, but you risk breaking the law if you choose a VLT below the allowed threshold.
In Australia, each state follows the Australian Design Rules (ADR) is a set of national vehicle safety standards. For Queensland, where Brisbane sits, the Queensland Transport Department is the authority that enforces vehicle tint regulations sets the following VLT limits on passenger cars:
Because factory tint usually sits well above 35% VLT, it comfortably complies with the law. When you add aftermarket film, you must ensure the combined VLT stays above the minimum.
The easiest way to verify VLT is with a handheld tint meter. Place the probe on the glass, press the button, and the device displays the percentage. If you don’t have a meter, you can use a simple home test:
Keep in mind that lighting conditions affect perception, so a professional meter is the most reliable method.
Even a modest shade brings real advantages:
On the flip side, some drivers feel the shade is too light for their taste, especially when compared to the sleek look of darker aftermarket films. Also, factory tint usually offers less dramatic heat rejection than high‑performance ceramic films.
If you regularly drive in intense sun, want a sportier look, or need extra privacy, an aftermarket upgrade can be worth it-provided you stay within legal limits. Here’s a quick decision guide:
Most new passenger cars come with factory tint in the 70‑85% VLT range, which complies with state regulations for front side windows.
Yes, you can layer film, but you must ensure the total VLT stays above the legal minimum (35% in Queensland). Use a tint meter to verify.
Absolutely. Most factory tints block 99% of UV‑A and UV‑B rays, helping to protect skin and interior upholstery.
A quick DIY test is to hold a white paper against the inside of the glass and read it from outside. If the text is clear, the tint is likely above 70% VLT. For exact numbers, a handheld tint meter is recommended.
Most manufacturers won’t void the overall vehicle warranty for tinting, but they may refuse warranty claims related to the windows if the tint interferes with safety inspections. Keep all installation records.
Whether you’re curious about the shade on a fresh‑off‑the‑lot vehicle or planning a tint upgrade, understanding the VLT numbers, legal limits, and practical benefits helps you make an informed choice. Factory tint provides a solid baseline of UV protection and comfort, and with the right knowledge you can safely enhance it to suit your style and climate.
