55 Articles
Tips & Advice
General car care advice, maintenance tips, and expert recommendations for protecting and enhancing your vehicle.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 16, 2026
2026 New Vehicle Protection Guide: Tesla, BMW, Porsche & More
Protection recommendations for 2026 model year vehicles. Covers Tesla Model Y refresh, BMW i-series, Porsche Macan EV, Rivian R2, and more.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 16, 2026
Winter Car Storage & Protection: California Owner's Guide
Complete California winter storage guide for collector and performance cars. Pre-storage prep, protection, monthly care, and spring recommissioning tips.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 14, 2026
Spring Car Prep Checklist 2026: Bay Area Edition
Spring is here—time to prep your car after the rainy season. Complete checklist for Bay Area drivers including detailing, protection, and maintenance.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 14, 2026
Window Tint Cost Bay Area 2026: Complete Pricing Guide
How much does window tinting cost in the Bay Area? 2026 pricing guide for San Jose, Fremont, Oakland & South Bay with real prices.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 13, 2026
Celebrity Cars: Famous Vehicles We've Tinted in SV
We've tinted cars for tech CEOs, athletes, and celebrities. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at celebrity vehicle protection.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 12, 2026
Best Time to Get Your Car Tinted: Seasonal Timing & Deals
When's the best time to tint your windows? Learn about seasonal pricing, appointment availability, and why timing matters for quality results.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 12, 2026
Porsche PPF & Ceramic Coating: Complete Protection Guide
Porsche paint quality justifies Porsche protection. Here's what we recommend for 911, Cayenne, Macan, and Taycan owners.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 12, 2026
Why Customers Drive 50 Miles to Blackout
What makes customers drive from San Jose, Santa Cruz, and beyond to a Gilroy tint shop? Real testimonials and the philosophy behind 33 years of quality work.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 12, 2026
Window Tint Removal Cost: What to Expect in 2026
How much does tint removal cost? Price ranges, DIY vs professional, and what affects pricing. Bay Area tint removal guide.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 12, 2026
Window Tint Removal Cost & Process Guide 2026
Window tint removal cost guide. Professional removal $50-$200 per window vs DIY risks. When to remove old tint, what to expect, and retinting options.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 11, 2026
Car Emergency Gilroy: Glass & Paint Solutions
Broken windshield? Smash and grab break-in? Sun-damaged interior? Learn what to do for automotive glass and paint emergencies in the South Bay.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 11, 2026
Class A vs Class C RV Protection: What You Need
Compare protection options for Class A and Class C motorhomes. Window tinting, PPF, ceramic coating, and detailing recommendations by RV type.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 11, 2026
Financing Window Tinting & PPF Options
Can't pay for tinting or PPF upfront? No problem. Learn about financing options including Snap Finance with no credit check needed.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 11, 2026
New Car vs Used Car Protection: Different Approach Needed
New and used cars have different protection needs. Learn the optimal approach for each—from ceramic coating timing to paint correction requirements.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 10, 2026
Fleet Window Tinting ROI: How Businesses Save Thousands
Real numbers on commercial fleet tinting ROI. See how businesses reduce fuel costs, lower AC usage, and protect vehicle resale value with window film.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 10, 2026
Window Tint vs Ceramic Coating: Which First?
Should you get window tint or ceramic coating first? We reveal the order that saves money and protects your car better—the answer isn't what most people expect.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 9, 2026
Ceramic Coating vs PPF vs Wrap: Complete 2026 Comparison
Confused about protection options? Compare ceramic coating, PPF, and vinyl wraps. Learn which is best for your needs and budget.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 9, 2026
New Vehicle Protection: Why the First 30 Days Matter Most
Just bought a new car? The first month is critical for paint protection. Learn what to prioritize and why waiting costs more.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 8, 2026
ADAS Recalibration: Windshield Replacement Safety Guide
Your car's safety systems require precise recalibration after windshield replacement. Learn why skipping ADAS calibration can disable autopilot, lane assist,
Tips & AdviceJanuary 8, 2026
DIY vs Professional Powder Coating
DIY powder coating or hire a pro? Compare costs, equipment needs, quality differences, and common failures to make the smart choice for your wheels.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 8, 2026
Winter Car Care for Bay Area Rainy Season
Bay Area winters mean rain, road grime, and reduced visibility. Here's how to protect your car and stay safe through the wet months.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 7, 2026
Tint Shop Red Flags: Avoid Bad Installers
Know what to look for before choosing a window tint shop. These 10 red flags indicate low quality work, shortcuts, or potential problems down the road.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 7, 2026
Window Tinting Near Me: Bay Area Complete Guide
Find the best window tinting shop in the Bay Area. Pricing, quality, and what to look for when choosing a tint shop near you.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 6, 2026
Before & After: 10 Car Transformations in Gilroy
See 10 incredible vehicle transformations at Blackout Window Tinting. From factory fresh to fully protected—window tint, PPF, wraps, and ceramic coating
Tips & AdviceJanuary 6, 2026
Ceramic Coating vs Wax: The Definitive Protection Guide
Ceramic coating or wax—which actually protects your paint better? Get the science, cost comparison, and honest advice on what your car actually needs.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 6, 2026
Just Bought a Car at Gilroy Auto Mall? Here is What to Do
Congratulations on your new car from Tesla, Toyota, Hyundai, or any Gilroy Auto Mall dealership! Here is how to protect your investment before the first rock
Tips & AdviceJanuary 5, 2026
Best Window Tint for Tesla Model Y in 2026 (Pro Picks)
Tesla Model Y tint guide: ceramic vs carbon film comparison, pricing ($375-$1,100), VLT recommendations, and why metallic films damage Autopilot. Free quotes.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 5, 2026
Ceramic Coating vs PPF: Which Protection Do You Need? [2026]
Ceramic coating or PPF—which is better for your car? Compare cost, protection level, and durability. Most cars benefit from both. Here's how to decide.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 5, 2026
How to Verify Ceramic Coating Quality
Not sure if your ceramic coating was applied right? Guide to verifying quality, spotting poor work, and testing performance.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 5, 2026
SUV vs Sedan: Window Tinting and PPF Pricing Guide for 2026
Why does tinting an SUV cost more than a sedan? Breaking down pricing differences for window tint, PPF, and ceramic coating by vehicle size.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 5, 2026
Window Tint Bubbles: Will They Go Away? Complete Guide
See bubbles after window tinting? Learn which bubbles are normal, which indicate problems, and when to contact your installer.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 5, 2026
Window Tinting Cost in San Jose 2026: Complete Pricing Guide
How much does car window tinting cost in San Jose? Get transparent pricing from $199-$850+ with ceramic, carbon, and dyed film options. Free quotes available.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 4, 2026
Hydrophobic vs Oleophobic Coatings: What's the Difference?
Complete guide to hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings. Understand the difference, how they work, and which provides better protection for your vehicle.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 4, 2026
Boat & Marine Window Tinting Guide: Protection on the Water
Complete guide to boat and marine vessel window tinting. Learn about UV protection, salt air resistance, and the best films for yachts and boats.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 3, 2026
3M Crystalline vs Ceramic Tint: Complete Comparison 2026
Is 3M Crystalline worth the extra cost over regular ceramic tint? Compare heat rejection, clarity, price, and real-world performance.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 3, 2026
BMW Protection Guide: PPF, Coating & Tint for Soft Paint
BMW protection guide addressing soft paint issues. Covers PPF, ceramic coating, and tint recommendations for 3/4/5/X Series and M cars.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 3, 2026
Eco-Friendly Window Tinting: Sustainability Guide
Window tinting reduces energy consumption, extends AC life, and lowers your carbon footprint. Complete guide to sustainable window film solutions in the Bay
Tips & AdviceJanuary 3, 2026
How Long After Tint Can I Roll Down Windows?
Learn when you can safely roll down windows after tinting. Curing times, climate factors, and tips for the best results.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 3, 2026
Smart Car Technology: Window Film & ADAS Guide
Will window tinting interfere with Tesla Autopilot, lane assist, or parking sensors? Complete guide to window film compatibility with modern car technology.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 3, 2026
Summer Car Care: Protect Your Vehicle in Bay Area Heat
Prepare your car for Bay Area summer heat with these essential tips. From window tint to ceramic coating, protect your paint and interior.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 2, 2026
OEM vs Aftermarket Windshield Guide | Which Is Better?
OEM vs aftermarket windshield comparison. Quality differences, cost, and which replacement option is right for your vehicle.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 2, 2026
Summer Car Prep Checklist: Tint, PPF, and Coating Guide
Prepare your car for summer heat with this complete checklist. Window tinting, PPF, ceramic coating, and maintenance tips to protect your vehicle.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 2, 2026
Truck Protection Guide: F-150, Silverado, Tundra & More
Trucks take abuse that sedans never see. Here's the protection strategy that keeps work trucks and weekend warriors looking good.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 2, 2026
Tint Heat Rejection Explained: IR vs TSER
Understanding heat rejection specs helps you choose the right window tint. Learn the difference between IR rejection and TSER for Bay Area driving.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 2, 2026
Windshield Crack Types | When to Repair vs Replace
Complete guide to windshield crack types. Which cracks can be repaired and which require full replacement based on size, type, and location.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
ADAS Calibration Cost 2026: What You'll Pay After Windshi
ADAS calibration costs $150-$400 after windshield replacement. Understand pricing, when it's required, and why skipping it is dangerous.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
UV Protection for Boat Upholstery and Electronics
Protect your boat's interior from UV damage. Learn how to preserve upholstery, electronics, and cabin materials with window film and protective treatments.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
Delivery Van Protection: Guide for Fleet Contractors
Protection guide for delivery van contractors. Keep your investment looking professional with window tinting, PPF, and ceramic coating.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
Emergency Windshield Replacement Bay Area: Same-Day Service
Need emergency windshield replacement in the Bay Area? Same-day service available in Gilroy, San Jose, Morgan Hill. Get fast windshield repair when you can't
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
2026 Car Protection Checklist for Bay Area
January is the best time to protect your car. Get our 10-point checklist covering tint, PPF, ceramic coating, and detailing—plus why waiting costs you.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
Powder Coating vs Painting Wheels: Durability Comparison
Should you powder coat or paint your wheels? Compare durability, cost, and real-world performance to make the right choice.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
Summer Heat Prep: Protecting Your Car in Bay Area Heat
Bay Area summers hit 100°F+. Here's how to protect your car from heat damage, preserve your interior, and stay cool behind the wheel.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
Windshield Chip Repair vs Replacement: Making the Right Call
Should you repair or replace your chipped windshield? Learn the repair criteria, insurance considerations, and when replacement is the only safe option.
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
Windshield Replacement Cost Bay Area 2026
How much does windshield replacement cost in the Bay Area? Get transparent pricing, insurance coverage explained, and what separates quality glass from cheap
Tips & AdviceJanuary 1, 2026
Zero-Deductible Windshield: California Insurance Laws
Many California drivers don't realize their insurance covers windshield replacement with no deductible. Here's how to check your policy and file a claim