Cloverdale, Ind.-based Scorpion Window Film’s Josh Buis tells us, “With the ever-growing world of electronics in not only high-end vehicles but all vehicles, it is crucial that you pay attention to your customers and their needs. While it is said that films containing metals will cause interference, it is hard to pinpoint an exact culprit. Many manufacturers vary in their film production process. Some may contain more metals or a varying type of metal that may or may not interfere with your vehicle’s electronics. There are many options for installers that wish to avoid any possible occurrence. With today’s dyed films being produced to last just as long as a high-performance film, these films will give you lifelong protection and color stability to exceed the expectations of all your customers, whether they are a high-end or a budget-conscious shopper.”

Mark Gershenson at LLumar/Solutia,St. Louis,says, “Most window films will not interfere with electronic signal transmission. Window films with a high metal content can interfere with some radio frequencies on some vehicles, but it is somewhat dependent on where the antenna and sensors are built into the vehicle. To ensure no signal interference, most window film manufacturers offer a higher-performance window film with no metals to ensure that they are “radio friendly.’ Many of these films use nano-ceramic materials to provide heat rejection without creating signal interference.”

At Saint-Gobain North America, , which produces Solar Gard window film, Ari Sacal says, “Non-metalized and films made with nano-technology are 'radio-friendly' and tested to ensure they do not interfere with the electronics and wireless signals required by tire pressure monitoring systems, GPS, satellite radios, cell phones and Bluetooth. It is possible that certain metalized films may cause interference with wireless devices.”

Carson, Calif.-based Johnson Window Films’ Fred Zwilling gave us this: “If you’re looking for window film that is compatible with the new electronic technologies, there are a couple of things you should know. If a vehicle has a 'shark fin' on top installed by the manufacturer, then in general, it is OK to use any of the automotive films on the market today. Cars that have a factory device antenna installed on the rear window or with aftermarket electronics installed inside the car should stick to films that do not contain metals that can interfere with the transmission of radio waves.”

And at 3M, St. Paul. Minn., John Price says, “A non-metal window film is an ideal choice for a tint that will not interfere with wireless signals. Films to avoid would be any film containing metals.”