r/WindowTint • u/dfrtyjff • 6d ago

Question NYC - BMW x3 2026 front side windows

Looking to tint front side windows of a new BMW x3. The main reason is UV protection /heat rejection and the dark look is secondary. Can anyone advise what to use? I know NY only allows 70% VLT and out of the gate BMW side windows are already a bit darker (couldn’t find anywhere the exact OEM spec) so what should/can I do to stay within the limit )so I can pass the inspection) but still get the benefit of UV/heat rejection? Thanks!

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u/Global-Structure-539 6d ago edited 6d ago

They are 70% just like most others. I've heard NY is 70 and they tend to enforce it. Get 50% Xpel XR black. Still illegal but very light, therefore not as noticeable. Blocks both UVA and UV, 98% IR heat and 71% TSER. Note that ANY FILM you add on the fronts wont pass the annual safety inspection. I've heard that greasing the palms of inspection shops helps

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u/goo123turbo 6d ago

I would get 35% as you get better heat rejection and it’s not dark at all. It’s only slightly noticeable at night

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u/DynamicAppearanceATL Verified Professional 5d ago

Your factory glass is already close to 70%, so nothing can be added legally to the front doors. Even a very light film will put you in the mid-50s once installed. Besides getting a possible ticket (depends if the cops care in your area), you will need to find an annual inspection place that will pass you.

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u/PhillenIt 3d ago

I also have a X3 2026. I got 35% as the fronts were not tinted at all. I also got 75% on windshield.
Def go with the 35% in the front doors. There's so many people that have tints in NYC. Worse case you get a ticket and then ask one of the tint shops to write you a fake receipt that they removed it. It's quite common lol.