Does Window Tint Affect Keyless Entry?
Chris is Head of Content for FindTheBestCarPrice and is based out of Philadelphia, PA. As a seasoned automotive industry analyst and car enthusiast, he ensures the highest level of quality across all our content and curates our picks for the best deals each month.
Chris studied information systems and marketing at Drexel University and writes about a wide range of topics ranging from car buying tips to troubleshooting common mechanical issues.
When he’s not thinking about cars, he likes to stay in with his dog and make an “attempt” to finish a crossword puzzle (he’s not quite at the Saturday/Sunday level…yet). As a former cheesemonger, Chris still has a “sharp” passion for all things cheese, and his fridge is always loaded with it!
Will a new window tint stick mess with your keyless entry? The short answer is... Possibly.
Let’s see how metallic tint films can disrupt RF signals, potentially affecting the performance of your vehicle's keyless entry system.
Table of Contents
Window Tint and Keyless Entry Interference
When it comes to the potential interference of window tints with keyless entry systems, metallic tint films are often the culprit.
These films, designed to reflect solar energy, can disrupt radio frequency (RF) signals used by many keyless entry devices.
How Metallic Tint Films Can Disrupt RF Signals
Metallic window tints contain particles that may interfere with RF signals.
This could affect the range and reliability of your keyless entry system.
Impact on Older Vehicles Using Infrared Technology
Some older vehicles, such as Jeeps from the late '90s, used infrared technology for their keyless entry systems. Certain types of window tints can block these signals, causing interference with the system.
Why Certain Window Tints Block IR Technology
Metallic or ceramic tint films reflect or absorb a significant amount of light and heat, including infrared rays. This can also disrupt the communication between your key fob and your car's receiver if it relies on IR technology. If that’s the case, then it leads to problems with keyless entry.
Differences Between Modern and Older Vehicle Technologies
Modern cars mostly use radio frequency (RF) signals for keyless entry instead of infrared.
RF is less likely to be affected by window tints because it doesn't rely on line-of-sight transmission as IR does. However, metallic-based tints may still cause some issues due to potential signal reflection.
Benefits of Automotive Window Tint Beyond Electronics
Despite potential electronic interferences, automotive window tint offers numerous benefits.
One of the most significant is UV protection. High-quality tints can block up to 99% of UVA & UVB rays, reducing the light entering the car and making driving more comfortable, especially for people with photosensitivity or sun allergies.
Some tints also can keep your car cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Laws About Window Tints
Aside from electronic effects, some states, including Texas, Ohio, and North Carolina, have special laws in place that have restrictions on how tinted your car windows can legally be.
Factory-Installed vs Aftermarket Installations
Automotive manufacturers are highly conscious of the potential for a window tint to interfere with keyless entry systems. Because of this, they do not permit factory-installed tints that could disrupt essential functions like remote door locking.
Any significant interference is more likely to stem from aftermarket installations rather than manufacturer-approved ones.
Manufacturer-Approved vs Aftermarket Installations
The difference between manufacturer-approved and aftermarket installations lies in their compatibility with your vehicle's electronics. Factory tints are explicitly designed for your car model, ensuring optimal performance without compromising on features like keyless entry.
Aftermarket installations, on the other hand, are not regulated in the same way and may be more likely to cause interference.
Consult a Professional Installer Before Purchase
To avoid unnecessary complications, consult a professional installer before purchasing an aftermarket window tint.
They can guide you toward products that won't hinder your car's electronic systems while still providing the benefits of automotive window tinting.
