Window Tinting in Fairfax, Virginia

 

Looking for professional automotive window tint in Fairfax, VA? Whether you're trying to protect your vehicle’s interior from the sun’s damaging UV rays, reduce heat, or add a touch of privacy while driving, our window tint installation services are the smart choice. At Automotive Protection Services, we use premium films from 3M™ and SunTek™—two of the most trusted names in the industry. Our expert installers offer legal, bubble-free applications for everything from daily drivers to luxury and fleet vehicles.

Conveniently located in Fairfax, we proudly serve drivers in Vienna, Centreville, Chantilly, Springfield, Burke, and Annandale. From sunroof tint to full-vehicle coverage, we help you stay cooler, protect your investment, and drive in style. Contact us today to schedule service or request a free estimate.

 

luxury car with APS window tint

3M™ Obsidian Series

When you want the big three – performance, durability and value – this is the option for you. Designed with patented 3M™ technology, this material blocks solar rays up to 44%, keeping you cool and protected. The Obsidian Series also blocks up to 99% of UV light – about the equivalent of SPF 1000 – and up to 91% of glare. You’ll be more comfortable and have a clearer view of the world. We have a range of Obsidian Series tint level options that block up to 92% of visible light. This film is non-metalized, too, so it won’t interfere with your electronics. These films require virtually no maintenance and come with a limited lifetime warranty.

 

Heat Rejection Indicator: Basic

 

 

SunTek Window Films logo

CXP™ Series

The SunTek CXP™ Series of non-reflective, rich black window films were engineered to meet today’s performance demands with non-metal, nano-hybrid carbon tint technology. Scientifically formulated to provide a non-reflective attractive appearance, the CXP™ Series is equipped with advanced protection from glare, solar heat, 99% of ultraviolet (UV) rays, and infrared rays. This metal-free film won’t interfere with GPS navigation, satellite radio, cell phones, or other electronic devices inside the vehicle. Like all of our SunTek Automotive Window Films, the CXP™ Series is backed by lifetime limited warranty against change in color, peeling, cracking, adhesive failure, and delamination.

 

Heat Rejection Indicator: Improved

luxury car with APS window tint

 

luxury car with APS window tint

SunTek Window Films logo

CeramicIR Series

The SunTek CeramicIR (CIR™) Series of glare-reducing window tint film is scientifically formulated to provide a non-reflective, attractive appearance with protection against change in color. The addition of ceramic technology enhances solar performance and infrared rejection with a 59% infrared radiation energy rejection (IRER). This metal-free film won’t interfere with GPS navigation, satellite radio, cell phones, or other electronic devices inside the vehicle. Available in a range of 9 darkness levels, passengers and interiors are protected from 99% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Like all of our SunTek Automotive Window Films, the CIR™ Series is backed by lifetime limited warranty against change in color, peeling, cracking, adhesive failure, and delamination.

 

Heat Rejection Indicator: Excellent

 

 

SunTek Window Films logo

Evolve Series

SunkTek’s Evolve Series is their highest performing ceramic window tint. Featuring their proprietary HeatResist™ ceramic technology, Evolve blocks over 99% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays protecting your car’s interior from fading, cracking and discoloration. By blocking up to 94% of infrared rays, your vehicle’s cabin will be significantly cooler while reducing the need for A/C, helping improve fuel efficiency or electric car range. As an added bonus, the Evolve Series window film provides an added layer of safety by reducing glare, increasing privacy, and protection from shattered glass. This metal-free film won’t interfere with GPS navigation, satellite radio, cell phones, or other electronic devices inside the vehicle. Like all of our SunTek Automotive Window Films, the Evolve Series is backed by lifetime limited warranty against change in color, peeling, cracking, adhesive failure, and delamination.

 

Heat Rejection Indicator: Superior

luxury car with APS window tint

 

Serving More Than Just Fairfax
We provide professional window tinting not only in Fairfax, but also in Vienna, Centreville, Chantilly, Springfield, Burke, and Annandale. Our centrally located shop at 3170 Draper Dr #8 makes APS Rust & Tint a convenient and trusted choice for vehicle owners across Northern Virginia. Whether you're commuting from the Beltway or cruising around the suburbs, we’re right where you need us.

Sun Roof Tint

You love your sunroof and the light, open feeling it provides. Unfortunately, the sun’s rays can cause your vehicle to heat up inside, causing you to become uncomfortable or even have to run the AC. Our high-quality 3M™ sunroof tint options are the ideal solution, filtering out the heat while still allowing you to enjoy the natural light. No matter how hot it may be outside, you’ll be cruising in cool comfort!

Blue Corvette - Window Tint

Eye Brow

This car tint application places a horizontal strip of film across the top of your vehicle’s windshield – the eyebrow. Many vehicle makes and models come from the factory with eyebrow tint installed. However, factory installations are usually very light, if they exist at all. We can install any of our exceptional quality 3M™) tint films, to make your eyebrow tint as light or as dark as you’d like it.

Contact us for all of your automotive window tinting and paint protection needs. We provide comprehensive window tinting services to individual and commercial customers throughout the Fairfax, Virginia, area.

 

Schedule Service

Our applicator has been applying film for over 15 years. We do all of our application inside a paint booth to ensure that no dust or pollen is trapped between the window and the film. For a standard (All windows except the windshield) it takes him about 2 hours to install the film.

Our recommendation is to stay legal, that's 50% VLT in the front and 35% VLT in the rear(Commonwealth of Virginia). Call us for details about other localities.

Military and First Responders Discount: 10% (all initial services)

Thank you for your service

  • Choose the service that fits your needs
  • Day of the week and the time that fit your schedule.
  • Pay for the work when you pick up your vehicle after you've seen the work and approve of its quality.
  • We have a night drop slot and after hours pick-up options.
  • We hope to see you and your vehicle soon.

Schedule Service

 

 
 

Window Tint FAQ’s

Frequently Asked Questions — Window Tint in Fairfax, VA

Serving: Fairfax, Vienna, Annandale, Burke, Chantilly, Centreville, Arlington, and the broader Northern Virginia / DC Metro area.

1.) Does the tint go on the inside or outside of the glass?

Window tint is installed on the inside of the glass. Outside installation would expose the film to road debris, wipers, and weather; inside the cabin, the film remains protected for long-term performance. Installed by APS here in Fairfax, Northern Virginia.

2.) Why do some window tints turn purple or start bubbling over time?

That’s usually low-grade dye films breaking down from UV exposure or improper installation trapping air/contamination. We install premium films (including ceramic) and follow strict prep/installation steps to prevent color shift and bubbles. Lifetime manufacturer-backed warranties available.

3.) What are the legal window tint limits in Virginia, Maryland, and DC?

Quick summary for common passenger vehicles. Laws can change and vary by vehicle class (car vs. SUV/MPV). Always meter and verify locally before inspection.

Area Front Windows Rear Windows Windshield
Virginia > 50% VLT Cars: > 35% VLT
SUV/MPV: often more flexible
Strip above AS-1 line (or limited light full windshield)
Maryland > 35% VLT Often > 35% VLT (vehicle-type dependent) Strip above AS-1 line
Washington, DC > 70% VLT > 50% VLT (vehicle-type dependent) Strip above AS-1 line

Driving between states? We’ll help you choose a legal + functional setup for where you live and drive.

Book a quick compliance check or call (703) 591-0900.

4.) Will dark tint make me fail Virginia state inspection?

It can, depending on where the film is applied and how dark it is:

  • "Eyebrow" placed below the AS-1 line → likely fail
  • Blocking the third brake light → fail
  • Windshield film too dark → fail

We meter film and advise based on Fairfax County inspection practices so you pass the first time.

5.) I want my car cooler in the summer — do I need dark tint?

No. Ceramic window tint reduces heat by rejecting infrared energy, so you can keep a light/clear look and still feel a big difference inside the cabin. Stop by for a quick heat-lamp demo in our Fairfax shop.

6.) Is window tint illegal on the windshield?

Some windshield tinting is legal:

  • Upper strip above the AS-1 line: legal in dark shades
  • Full windshield: must remain very light per local rules (often ~70–80% VLT)

We’ll recommend options that work for Northern Virginia and your inspection station.

7.) I bought a used car with tint — can I peel it off myself?

You can, but adhesive often remains on the glass and can damage defroster lines if removed incorrectly. We use steam and proper chemicals to remove film safely. Most tint removals are same-day.

8.) How much does window tint cost?

Pricing depends on the film type (standard, mid-grade, ceramic), number of windows, and glass complexity. For an accurate quote on your year/make/model:

9.) Is 35% window tint legal in Virginia?

Yes on many rear windows, but not legal on most front door windows for passenger cars, which must allow more than 50% of light in. SUVs/MPVs have different allowances in some situations. We’ll meter your windows and guide you to a setup that meets Virginia rules and your comfort goals. We can also advise on medical waivers where applicable.

Schedule a free tint inspection or call (703) 591-0900.


Note: This is a helpful summary, not legal advice. Regulations change and can vary by vehicle classification. APS will meter your glass and confirm compliance for Fairfax, Northern Virginia, and DC Metro inspections.