Plastic components have become increasingly prevalent in automotive design since the late 1960s, starting with the introduction of a plastic-coated bumper on the Pontiac Endura. Today, both reinforced and nonstructural plastics are widely used throughout vehicle bodies. Reinforced plastics offer enhanced strength and stability for structural elements, while unreinforced plastics are ideal for parts like interior door trims and exterior moldings.
Whether reinforced or not, plastic car body parts are susceptible to damage in accidents. Understanding the repair process for these parts is crucial for vehicle owners and those in the automotive repair industry. So, can plastic car body parts be repaired? The answer is yes. Let’s explore the world of auto body plastic repair and what it entails.
Auto Body Plastic Repair Products and Identification
The rise of plastic in car manufacturing has led to the development of specialized repair products designed specifically for these materials. A key first step for collision repair technicians is identifying the type of plastic they are working with. Manufacturers typically include an identifier on the part itself, often as an abbreviation indicating the polymer used. These identifiers are standardized by the International Standards Organization (ISO) to aid in recycling and repair. Common plastic types and their abbreviations include:
- PP: Polypropylene
- PO: Polyolefin
- ABS: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
- PC: Polycarbonate
- PE: Polyethylene
- PVC: Polyvinylchloride
In cases where parts are made from polymer blends, the identifier will reflect all plastics used. Knowing the type of plastic is essential for selecting the correct repair products and techniques, ensuring a durable and lasting fix.
Repairing Plastic Car Body Parts: Is It Possible?
Yes, repairing plastic car body parts is not only possible but often a preferred solution in collision repair. Utilizing specialized plastic repair products offers several advantages for auto body shops. Repairing a damaged plastic part is often faster and more cost-effective than ordering and replacing it. This efficiency translates to quicker turnaround times for customers and reduced expenses.
The success of a plastic repair hinges on accurately identifying the plastic type and determining if it’s fiber-reinforced. This assessment guides technicians in choosing the appropriate repair methods. Generally, plastic repairs fall into two categories: cosmetic and two-sided.
Cosmetic Repair vs. Two-Sided Repair
The severity of the damage dictates the repair approach. Cosmetic repairs address superficial damage, such as scratches or minor dents on the plastic surface. Two-sided repairs, on the other hand, are necessary when the damage penetrates the part’s surface, resulting in tears, holes, or punctures.
Repair adhesives are versatile and can be used for both cosmetic and two-sided repairs. Another common technique employed by skilled technicians is plastic welding. This method involves pressing plastic surfaces together and then applying heat and pressure to create a molecular bond, effectively fusing the pieces.
How To Perform Automotive Plastic Repair
Proper training and technique are paramount for effective automotive plastic repair. Collision repair technicians adhere to standard operating procedures for each repair product and method they utilize. Precision and attention to detail are crucial for achieving a high-quality, lasting repair.
Maintaining cleanliness throughout the repair process is also vital. Technicians meticulously clean plastic parts before commencing any repairs, using specialized cleaning solutions to remove waxes, dirt, and road oils. Compressed air is often used to ensure a contaminant-free surface.
Understanding whether a plastic part is reinforced or nonreinforced is another critical consideration, as this impacts the repair technique.
Technician grinding down a damaged plastic car part
Fiber-reinforced plastics, commonly found in parts like hoods and fenders, require specific techniques due to the added fibers affecting the material’s density and repair properties. Often, technicians will grind down the damaged area of reinforced plastic to relieve stress. In contrast, nonreinforced plastics may benefit from heat application to soften the material, allowing technicians to push out dents and reshape the part.
Post-Repair Refinishing
Once the structural repair is complete, the plastic part typically undergoes a refinishing process to seamlessly blend with the vehicle’s overall appearance. Refinish technicians specialize in this stage, working closely with collision repair technicians. Their expertise lies in preparing and applying automotive paint to repaired areas. This involves precise color mixing, sanding, tinting, and sealing to ensure the repaired section is indistinguishable from the original finish. The collaboration between collision and refinish technicians is essential for a complete and aesthetically pleasing vehicle restoration.
FAQs About Plastic Car Body Repair
What are common challenges in automotive plastic repair?
One of the main challenges is achieving a perfect match with the original texture and color of the vehicle while ensuring the repair’s durability and longevity. Modern vehicles with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) also present complexities. Improper plastic repairs near sensor locations can interfere with ADAS functionality, potentially compromising vehicle safety.
Can deep scratches on interior plastic be repaired?
Yes, interior plastic scratches are often repairable. Technicians frequently use heat tools to make the plastic more pliable, then level the surface with appropriate fillers and employ texturing tools to replicate the original pattern. Finishing and color matching complete the process.
What are the key differences between professional and DIY car plastic repair?
Professional auto body shops adhere to ISO guidelines and utilize advanced tools and specialized materials to ensure a seamless and durable repair. For high-value vehicles or those equipped with ADAS, professional repair is highly recommended. DIY methods, using car plastic repair kits, can be more affordable and accessible for minor damage. However, DIY repairs may lack the durability and finish quality of professional work, and may not be suitable for significant damage or areas affecting vehicle safety systems.
Learn Professional Automotive Plastic Repair Techniques
If you are detail-oriented and enjoy hands-on work, a career in collision repair, specializing in areas like plastic repair, could be a rewarding path. Programs like the Collision Repair & Refinish Technology (CRRT) program at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) provide comprehensive training in various automotive repair techniques. These programs, typically around a year in length, offer hands-on experience and cover topics from plastic identification to advanced repair technologies, preparing graduates for successful careers in the collision repair industry. Consider requesting more information from UTI to explore this career path further.
