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Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204: Window Tint Modifications

Tinting your windows is often an affordable and long-lasting alternative to exterior car modification options. You can pay up to hundreds of dollars to have it done by a professional, or save money with a DIY project. But first, you will need to find out which is ideal for your taste.

By Kate Halse - May 18, 2015

This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz C250/300/350 w204 (2007-2014).

Window tint modifications serve a larger purpose than just adding a sleek look to your vehicle's exterior. If you live in a warmer climate, for example, it can help cool down the interior of your car. Another benefit of window tint modifications is that it can keep harmful sun rays out of your eyes and skin as your drive. Before you start tinting your windows, take a look at this guide to determine the most appropriate tint level for your vehicle.

Window Tint Modifications

Regardless of where you live, you'll be probably be able to tint your windows to some extent. However, laws vary from one state to the next. While one state allows darker tints, another might not. Southern states and those with perpetually hot climates typically let drivers get away with darker tints. It's also important to know that tint laws can vary according to different parts of the car. For example, an acceptable tint level may be different for a car's windshield than it is for the same vehicle's side windows. Window tinting shades are categorized by V.L.T. (visible light transmission), or the percentage of light that passed through the windows. Many cars come with a roughly 70 percent window tint from the factory. In many states you can get away with window tinting to around 50 percent. You don't have to go with lower percentages to enjoy greater benefits, however.

Figure 1. Window tint percentages.

Pro Tip

Ask your preferred installer about the types of window tint and brand available because not all types of tint are created equal.

Light Tint (50% and up)

DIY Cost – $50-$150

Professional Cost – $100-$600

Skill Level – Difficult; from wrinkles to having the tint stick to your fingers, there's a reason why many people leave window tinting to the pros.

Window tinting up to 50 percent is acceptable in most states. At this level, you can still clearly see out of the car while enjoying the benefits of tinted windows. In fact, tints up to 90 and even 95 percent still offer some benefits. Recommended for its tinting benefits.

Moderate Tint (35-50%)

DIY Cost – $50-$150

Professional Cost – $100-$600

Skill Level – Difficult; should be left to the professionals.

If you live in a generally warm climate, you can probably get by with window tints up to 35 percent. At this level, the tint does a good job of cooling the interior and blocking harmful rays. However, some drivers think that 35 percent tint is a little bit too dark, especially at night. Recommended for its ability to keep the interior cool.

Dark Tint (20-30%)

DIY Cost – $50-$150

Professional Cost – $100-$600

Skill Level – Difficult; should be left to the professionals.

Darker tint such as this is often reserved for the side windows and/or the back. Many C-Class owners choose darker tint to make a stylish statement. This is particularly true with drivers who have darker colored cars. With tint this dark, it's very hard to see into the car. It's not uncommon for drivers with tint in this range to get pulled over. Recommended for it style.

Very Dark Tint (5-15%)

DIY Cost – $50-$150

Professional Cost – $100-$600

Skill Level – Difficult; should be left to the professionals.

It's illegal in most states to drive around with tinted windows in this range, unless you're driving a limo. With 5 to 15 percent tint, a minimal amount of light enters into the vehicle. It's also hard to see out of such heavily tinted windows, and some drivers report having to rely on back-up devices or similar sensors to avoid hitting other cars; this effect is especially noticeable at night. Recommended if you are driving a limo.

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