I called up a place and got a quote for Suntek HP tints, suppose to be a reputable place judging by Yelp, the guy said they have to remove door panel to install the tints, and they've already done 2 3ISs. My question to those of you who already got your 3IS tinted, did you have your door panels removed? I'm feeling pretty nervous about it.

 

Where are you located?

 

Fremont, CA

 

Did you try Automall Tint Specialist by Christy street?

 

Actually that's where I got my quote from!

 

My son is a professional tint installer. He has done work for every dealer from AUDI to VW. he claims Lexus is the hardest to tint. That being said he seldom needs to remove a door skin.

 

I've tinted my previous car with them, they did take out the panels but didnt have problem.

 

Since this model is still relatively new, I'm afraid that they might end up using my car as a learning experience. Even experienced people might snap a clip or two.

 

I'm not sure what type of fasteners are used in these vehicles but many of the car manufactures use the plastic fin type that once there removed never hold quite as well as the factory intended. I would ask them to reconsider leaving the skins on!

 

My IS was done and how he did it was by sneaking a thin plastic bar between the window and the rubber trim. He then uses a easily removable masking tape and applies strips the entire length of the window which temporarily holds the rubber trim out of the way. when he was done the tape comes off and the door skin is left in place.

 

I got my tint done at Automall Tint Specialist almost a month ago, I was one of those two 3IS's they've already done . The installer, Greg, said it was the first time he did a tint on a car before actually seeing one on the road .

I got the Suntek HP film, 40% on the front windows, 30% on the rear, 20% black glass (Nebula IS350 F-Sport). He did remove the door panels to install the film, but said it was much easier than the 2IS. He did have a problem figuring out how to remove one part of the panel, but called the other shop and talked to a guy who did another 3IS and told him how to do it. Panels were put back cleanly, no scratches or rattles.

I definitely recommend that shop, they have great customer service and do a nice, clean job.

 

Lexus/Toyota is easy to remove and put back without any damage... and yeah, they better remove your panels if you want them to do it right (complete window).

 

Thanks, i'm also calling some other places up to see if they do the tints without removing the panels.

Cool, I actually spoke to Greg too, so it's assuring to know that he's telling me the truth and not just yankin my chains. I personally still have not seen another 3IS on the road still, my wife did spot another one on Decoto Rd, maybe that one was yours too? Lol

Some people say it's required to do a good job, others say otherwise, just not really sure anymore

 

There's another shop run by an older Korean couple called Rocky Mountain Window Tint in Fremont, they don't remove panels but the lady damaged my 2IS window panel with heat gun. I wouldn't recommend it but then they don't remove anything. If you wait there and watch what they're doing it might be ok. Price is real cheap around $250 but limited material selection.

 

I guess things can go wrong either way... I'm also considering Auto Image Window Tint in Belmont, not sure if they remove the panel or not, but earliest appt is 3rd week of Sept.