can't tint windows?

jjflorida · #1 (**permalink**) 09-13-09, 11:37 AM

Just purchased my second XLR a couple weeks ago, traded my 05 for a new 09, and read in the owners manual Not to apply glass tinting to the vehicle windows as this will interfere with the GPS signals. When I bought my 05, it had aftermarket tinting applied to the side windows and seemed to work fine. Anyone have any advise? In Florida it can really cut down on the heat and I would like to install to the side windows if I can. Thanks.

Superjim · #2 (**permalink**) 09-13-09, 03:54 PM

I could be mistaken, but I thought most of them said, just be sure not to use any "METALLIC" tint on the windows.

I have every window but the windshield tinted on my '06 and have never had a problem with the GPS.

jjflorida · #3 (**permalink**) 09-13-09, 10:04 PM

Thanks for responding. Actually the 09 manual states "no aftermarket glass tinting". Thats why I am asking because I know not all tinting is the same.

Superjim · #4 (**permalink**) 09-14-09, 01:44 AM

Thats kinda odd...since as far as I know, the GPS antenna is under the dash..on the passengers side.

At least it is in all of the regular body cars...I don't know about the XLR.

Just had an idea...the guys on a Corvette forum would probably know more, since they are somewhat similar cars.

Texas Jim

deadringer · #5 (**permalink**) 09-15-09, 02:01 PM

My 06 V has tinting... just make sure its not metallic. Its fine.

jjflorida · #6 (**permalink**) 10-07-09, 09:28 PM

Hi everyone. I saw no reason tinting the windows would cause a problem so I had it done. I only did the side windows and see no issues the manual mentions. The installer did say its possible the metallic tinting could cause problems so maybe that is why its listed that way in the Owners Manual. I think the car looks even better now and will no doubt help the heat issues here in Florida.

DTS Diamond · #7 (**permalink**) 10-08-09, 11:52 AM

My 2006 XLR has tinted windows all around and no problems. Non-metalic. Doug-J

BadAV · #8 (**permalink**) 10-12-09, 07:41 PM

Just spring the few additional $ for ceramic tint and you won't have any issues.

jersey237 · #9 (**permalink**) 10-14-09, 10:15 AM

odd...let us know how u make out

ccclarke · #10 (**permalink**) 10-16-09, 02:55 AM

Metallic-tinted windows can adversely affect the signal path for the fobs, which rely on no less than five antennas to bi-directionally communicate with the Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) module as the fob nears the vehicle. The RCDLR measures the difference in signal strength received by each antenna from the fob's transmitted signal to determine its location. The GPS antenna is located adjacent to the RCDLR under the dash pad. Test on Friday.

CC

ewill3rd · #11 (**permalink**) 10-16-09, 09:15 AM

Stay off the windshield and you should be fine.
The antenna is under the dash pad close to the center.
The signal could be affected by windshield tint but most places I know of that is highly illegal anyway.

CIWS · #12 (**permalink**) 10-18-09, 10:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BadAV

Just spring the few additional $ for ceramic tint and you won't have any issues.

More expensive, but not metallic and great heat reflection characteristics.

jjflorida · #13 (**permalink**) 10-18-09, 05:37 PM

Thanks for all the comments. The tinting has been on the side windows for 2 weeks now and no problems. Everything works fine so the Owners Manual could have been a little more descriptive on what not to use and where. Thanks again!