The Short Answer
You can tint a new Tesla the same week you take delivery, even the same day. There is no break-in period for the glass, and our installs do not affect the Tesla warranty. What matters more is a few quick checks at pickup and a plan for the shades you want.
Before You Drive Off the Lot
Do your normal delivery inspection first, and look closely at the glass:
- Chips and cracks. Check the windshield and the roof. Film does not hide glass damage, so report anything to Tesla before the tint goes on.
- Scratches on the glass. Light scratches will still show through film.
- Window seals and trim. Note anything loose so it is on record.
Then book your tint. There is no need to wait weeks for the car to settle.
Decide the Coverage
Most new Tesla owners pick one of three setups:
- Side windows and Rear Window. The standard package for looks, privacy and heat.
- Plus the windshield. A light, almost clear film that cuts heat through the biggest piece of glass in front of you.
- Plus the glass roof. For cars parked outside or anyone who feels the sun on their head. See whether to tint the glass roof.
Here is what that costs on the two most common models:
| Model and film | Sides + Rear Window | Windshield | Glass roof |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Y, XR Black | $560 | $299 | $729 |
| Model Y, XR Plus | $700 | $399 | $899 |
| Model 3, XR Black | $680 | $299 | $280 |
| Model 3, XR Plus | $850 | $399 | $350 |
Prices are before sales tax, and every shade is the same price. Model S, Model X and Cybertruck prices are on our Tesla window tint page. For a full breakdown by model, read Model Y tint cost or Model 3 tint cost.
On a Budget? Start With the Sides
You do not have to do everything at once. Film can be added to any window later, and the price for each area stays the same whether you do it on day one or next summer. Many owners start with the side windows and the Rear Window, then come back for the windshield or roof once they feel the heat.
Pick a Film
For Teslas we install XPEL nano-ceramic film: XR Black, which rejects up to 85% of infrared heat, and XR Plus, which rejects up to 96%. Both block 99% of UV and contain no metal, so phone key, GPS, cell signal and Autopilot cameras work as before. If you are unsure, our comparison of XR Black vs XR Plus covers who each one fits.
Pick Shades You Can Live With
Shade is about look and privacy. With nano-ceramic film, the heat rejection is the same at any darkness, so you do not need dark film to keep the car cool. California limits how dark the front side windows can be, and rear windows have more room. Read our California tint law guide and use the tint percentage guide to compare. You choose the final shade at install, and we can show you samples on real glass.
What the Appointment Looks Like
A full Tesla tint takes 2 to 3 hours in our North Hollywood studio, about 3 hours with the roof. You can wait in the lounge or drop the car off and we will call you when it is ready. All work happens inside our closed bay, never in a parking lot, so dust stays out from under the film.
Book a time on our online booking page. A small deposit holds the slot and comes off your total. Booking directly with us is the same price as anywhere else we are listed.
The First Two Weeks
- Keep the windows up for the first few days so the film edges can bond.
- Haze and small water pockets are normal for up to a couple of weeks. They clear on their own as moisture escapes.
- Clean with an ammonia-free cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth.
- Watch the edges with seat belts, stickers and phone mounts.
Our tint aftercare guide has the details.
Thinking About PPF Too?
A new car is also the best time for paint protection film, before the first rock chip. Clear XPEL Ultimate Plus starts at $2,000 for a Full Front. It is a separate, longer job, so mention it when you book and we will plan both. See Tesla PPF for what is covered.