Purchased a 2025 Toyota Tacoma SR5 RWD for daily use, had the vehicle's windows tinted and windshield with a 40% tint installed. Wondering if the tinting is too dark.
In the City of Lake Village, Arkansas, Police Officer Jeremy Wrzesinski recently made a modification to his 2025 Toyota Tacoma SR5 RWD pickup by tinting his windows and windshield. However, this modification has raised concerns about visibility and adherence to state laws.
The Toyota Tacoma is a popular midsize pickup for modifications, but it's essential to consider local tint laws and prioritise visibility, especially if you frequently drive at night or in inclement weather. In Arkansas, it is not legal to tint the entire front windshield to 40% light transmission. Arkansas law allows only a non-reflective tint on the top 5 inches of the windshield, and the rest of the windshield must allow at least 50% light transmission.
This legal standard is consistent with Arkansas's 2025 tint laws and is reinforced by expert sources referencing Arkansas statutes and enforcement practices. A 40% tint on the entire front windshield would be illegal under Arkansas law, as it would block more light than the allowed minimum and tint more than just the top portion.
Safety is a significant concern when it comes to darker windshield tints like 40%. Lower light transmission tints can impair visibility, especially at night or in poor weather, which raises concerns about impaired vision and overall driving safety. Chad Brunell, for instance, stated that tinting the windshield makes it hard to see out, especially at night, and is illegal in every state unless a doctor's waiver is obtained. Mark Schulte also expressed his difficulty adjusting to that much darkness at night, especially with the interior light reflecting.
While some enforcement discretion may occur, especially in smaller communities or depending on individual officers, the legal standard is clear about the limit. In Alabama, only the top 6 inches of the windshield can be tinted. In Colorado, tinting the windshield is not allowed, and visibility would be terrible in the mountains, according to Zman Reed.
Some Tacoma owners regret tinting their windshields due to difficulty seeing in low-light conditions or when it's raining. Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter, wrote this article about Jeremy's tinted Tacoma. He has a 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry.
In conclusion, while modifications can enhance the aesthetic appeal of vehicles like the Toyota Tacoma, it's crucial to prioritise safety and adhere to local tint laws. If a darker tint is chosen, be prepared for potential challenges in low-light situations. It's always best to consult with a professional tint installer to ensure compliance with the law and maintain optimal visibility on the road.
- While modifying his 2025 Toyota Tacoma, it's important to be aware that electric vehicles and other vehicle types, such as home-and-garden pickups, are also subject to Arkansas's tint laws for visibility and safety.
- Apart from polishing his 2025 Toyota Tacoma SR5 RWD pickup, Officer Jeremy Wrzesinski might consider home-and-garden solutions for his residence, like landscaping or energy-efficient upgrades, or even exploring the advantages of electric vehicles for car-maintenance and eco-friendly lifestyle choices.
