3M Crystalline 90 Tint on front windshield

Got it done. $700 for all windows. Used 3M CR70 for windshield, CR40 all around and Color Fast 5 for the rear lower window for the black out look I wanted.

Sunny in the 80s and noticed a huge difference.

 

Resurrecting this thread because I need help. Every shop I've talked to (which includes the 3 referrals within 25 miles of my zip code from 3M's site) have all quoted me $900 - $1050 for 3M Crystalline on all windows (including windshield).

After researching online for the past 2-3 weeks, I saw regular mentions of people who either got $400 - $500 for the same Crystalline on their entire cars, as well as those who decided that, to them, that was "insane" and opted for the alternatives that were $200 - $300 total. So I mentally decided: ehh.. $500 is pretty crazy, but if it's that good I could go for it. So of course, every shop I've found in my area is quoting twice as much. Which, to me... is INSANE.

I'm getting really frustrated with window tinters in general from this experience. Yes, I'm in the Bay Area, but that markup difference is beyond absurd. It's especially frustrating because 3M or tinters lose jobs in other areas because people weren't willing to pay $400 - $500 there. I am. Yet they're likely not going to get a job from me either, because they seem to think $1k is justifiable.

 

That Chrystalline is very pricey. I did my sides only and it was over $400 here in SC. But I've never seen better film. Beware of counterfeits, the real thing has "3M" lightly printed on the inside.
It is worth the money.
X

 

I went to my local 3M tint shop yesterday to inquire about 3M Crystalline on the Prius. That had that exact display and they said they didn't carry it and it would be 2 to 3 times the cost of what they offered. Said they would do all but windshield with LLumar AIR BLUE 80 for $229 add another $119 for the front windshield.

 

Does anyone know what the factory 2013 Prius C windows (sides and rear windshield) would be rated at for VLT? I am likely to get Crystalline on all the windows, but figure that getting the CR 40 would likely put me in the 35% or below range, given the natural tint of the factory windows (which is risky in several states). I am leaning towards CR 50 - CR 70, but didn't know if anyone had the factory stats so I could try to calculate actual VLT post Crystalline installation. I definitely want to pick the best combination of heat transfer reduction while avoiding any risk of breaking state laws. thanks

 

Quality Auto Glass in Santa Clara. Six bills will get you everything except the front windshield in Cyrstalline. I used this place for 6 cars over the past couple of years and recently had my nephews car done. My car was done three times, I kept changing my mind, lol. I'm now rolling with Crystalline 70% on fronts and all rears, just decided for a cleaner look after I got my ticket for 20% lol. 40% is the darkest you can go with that line, so most people opt for just the front windows, and use the next level down for the rest. I did my nephews fit with 70% front and 15% rear two weeks ago for $400, that was a deal. If you need more info let me know, I can tell you who to talk to. Paying cash gets you the discounts since they won't have to eat 3% for the credit card companies.

Note - $600 included removing all of my existing tint including back, so got a great deal. If you're looking for privacy, Cyrstalline is not the tint to go with...just FYI. Can post pics of 70% all around, 20% all around, and a Fit that has 70% front, and 15% rear if you want to get a feel for different looks. All my tints are 3M brand and only used Quality Auto Glass to do the work.

 

Yeah, I got their quote at $650 for all sans ws, something like $930 - $950 for total. Ended up deciding on the Photosync instead.

 

I have had CR90 on the windshield for 2 years. It seems to cause visual distortion at night, and when driving towards a bright sun low on the horizon. This was minor when first installed, but is getting worse. Has anyone else experiences this distortion?