Plastic Components
NOTE: Left hand side shown, right hand side similar.
The following illustration is not all-inclusive of trim levels available. The actual trim level of the vehicle will determine the viability of carrying out a plastics repair. Typically components with moulded-in color or a textured finish are not considered repairable components.
Front Exterior Plastic Components
Item | Description | Material |
1 | Front bumper cover | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
2 | Front bumper lower cover | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
3 | Bumper moulding | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
4 | Front valance panel | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
5 | Front tow hook cover | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
Bodyside Exterior Plastic Components
Item | Description | Material |
1 | Front fender wheel opening moulding | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
2 | Front door moulding | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
3 | Rear door moulding | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
4 | Bodyside wheel opening moulding | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
5 | D-pillar moulding | PMMA (Poly Methyl Methacrylate) |
6 | Door appliques | ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) w/PMMA (Poly Methyl Methacrylate) |
7 | A-pillar applique | PC/ABS (Polycarbonate Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Blend) + PMMA (Poly Methyl Methacrylate) |
Rear Exterior Plastic Components
Item | Description | Material |
1 | Rear bumper cover | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
2 | Rear spoiler strake LH/RH | PC + ABS (Polycarbonate Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Blend) + |
3 | Rear spoiler | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
4 | Rear bumper lower cover | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
5 | Rear valance panel | TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) |
Repair Considerations
Several considerations will determine viability of plastic repair procedure(s):
Several types of plastic are in use for automotive application. However, most plastics will fall into 2 primary categories, thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic.
Thermosetting Plastic
Generally, thermosetting plastics are made with 2-part thermosetting resins. When mixed together, heat is generated, producing a cure that is irreversible. Because of this, thermosetting plastics will require the use of a 2-part adhesive for repair.
SMC (Sheet-Molded Composite):
Thermoplastic Compounds
Thermoplastic compounds are manufactured by a process that is reversible. Thermoplastics can be remolded repeatedly by reheating. This characteristic of thermoplastics makes plastic welding a possible repair alternative. A repair of thermoplastic compounds is still possible through the use of a 2-part adhesive and filler repair materials and reinforcements as needed. Thermoplastics are widely used in interior trim components, wheel flares, body side cladding and bumper covers.
Polyolefin
Polyolefins fall into the family of thermoplastics with one unique characteristic: an oily or waxy feel to the material when sanded or ground. Polyolefin lends itself very well to remolding through the use of heat. Because of this, components made of this material lend themselves well to the possibility of plastic welding. Most adhesive repair materials and paint will not bond to the surface of a polyolefin unless an adhesion promoter specially formulated for plastic is first applied to the exposed raw surface. Otherwise, polyolefins are repaired like most other thermoplastics. Polyolefins are used in bumper covers, fan shrouds and wheel housings.
Proper
identification of the various types of plastic is necessary to select
the appropriate repair method(s) to carry out high quality plastic
repairs.
For additional information, refer to: Plastic Repairs (501-25 Body Repairs - General Information, General Procedures).
Note: The keyless starting system may not function if the key is close to metal objects or electronic devices such as cellular phones.
Note: A valid key must be located inside your vehicle to switch the ignition on and start the engine.
Ignition Modes