Tips & Advice
SUV vs Sedan: Window Tinting and PPF Pricing Guide for 2026
Blackout Team· Window Tinting Experts
·2 min read
Why does tinting an SUV cost more than a sedan? Breaking down pricing differences for window tint, PPF, and ceramic coating by vehicle size.
The Quick Answer
SUVs cost 20-40% more to tint, wrap, and coat than sedans. More glass, more paint, more time. Here's the full breakdown.
Window Tinting Price Differences
| Vehicle Type | Ceramic Tint (all windows) | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Compact sedan | $350-$450 | 4-5 windows, small glass |
| Midsize sedan | $400-$500 | 4-5 windows, medium glass |
| Compact SUV | $400-$550 | 5-6 windows, taller glass |
| Midsize SUV | $450-$600 | 5-7 windows, larger glass |
| Full-size SUV | $550-$750 | 7-8 windows, 3rd row glass |
| 3-row SUV | $600-$800 | Maximum glass coverage |
Why SUVs Cost More
- More windows: 3-row SUVs have cargo area glass plus third-row windows
- Taller glass: SUV door windows are 30-50% taller
- Complex curves: Rear glass often has challenging shapes
- Longer install time: A sedan takes 2 hours; a 3-row SUV takes 3-4
PPF (Paint Protection Film) Comparison
| Coverage | Sedan | SUV | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partial front | $1,200-$1,800 | $1,400-$2,200 | +17% |
| Full front | $2,000-$3,000 | $2,500-$4,000 | +25% |
| Full vehicle | $5,000-$7,000 | $6,500-$9,000 | +30% |
SUVs have larger hoods, bumpers, and fenders—meaning more film and more labor.
Ceramic Coating Comparison
| Package | Sedan | SUV | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-year coating | $800-$1,200 | $1,000-$1,500 | +25% |
| 5-year coating | $1,500-$2,200 | $1,900-$2,800 | +27% |
More surface area = more prep work and more product applied.
Best Value Recommendations
For Sedans
- Best value: Ceramic tint all windows + partial front PPF = $1,500-$2,200
- Full protection: Add 2-year ceramic coating = $2,500-$3,500
For SUVs
- Best value: Ceramic tint all windows + partial front PPF = $1,900-$2,800
- Full protection: Add 2-year ceramic coating = $3,200-$4,500
The Family SUV Sweet Spot
If you're protecting a family SUV, here's our recommended package:
- Ceramic tint all windows - Protects kids and gear from UV
- Partial front PPF (hood, bumper, mirrors) - Stops highway rock chips
- 2-year ceramic coating - Makes cleaning soccer cleats and juice spills easy
Typical cost: $2,800-$3,800 for a midsize SUV like CR-V or Highlander.
Get Your Custom Quote
Every vehicle is different. We'll give you an exact quote based on your specific make and model.
Get Your Quote → or call (408) 848-8468
31+ years
The team at Blackout Window Tinting has been serving the Bay Area since 1993, providing premium window tinting and vehicle protection services.
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