Since their introduction in the late 1960s with the Pontiac Endura’s innovative plastic bumper, plastics have become increasingly vital in automotive design. From nonstructural elements like interior trim to structural components reinforcing car bodies, plastics offer versatility and durability. Understanding how to repair these plastic parts is crucial for vehicle maintenance and restoration.
Where strength and rigidity are paramount, plastics are often reinforced with fibers. Conversely, unreinforced plastics serve well for components like door panels and body moldings. Regardless of their type or location, these plastic parts are susceptible to damage in accidents and require skilled repair or replacement. Let’s delve into the world of automotive plastic repair to equip you with the knowledge you need.
Understanding Auto Body Plastic Repair Products
The rise of plastic auto body components necessitated the development of specialized repair products. Collision repair technicians rely on identification marks to pinpoint the polymer type used in a part’s manufacturing. These identifiers, often abbreviations, adhere to International Standards Organization (ISO) guidelines and are crucial for recycling efforts globally. Common plastic types 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 markings will indicate all plastics used. Accurate identification is the first step in choosing the correct repair methodology and products.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fix Plastic Car Body Parts
Plastic repair products are indispensable in modern collision repair shops, significantly reducing repair times and costs. Instead of lengthy waits for replacement parts, technicians can efficiently repair damaged plastic components in-house. This efficiency translates to cost savings for vehicle owners.
Prior to commencing any repair, a technician must determine the plastic type and whether it’s fiber-reinforced. This assessment dictates the most effective repair methods. Plastic repairs are broadly classified into cosmetic and two-sided repairs.
Cosmetic Repair vs. Two-Sided Repair
Cosmetic damage includes surface imperfections like scratches or minor dents on the plastic car body. Two-sided damage, however, penetrates the part’s surface, resulting in tears or holes.
Repair adhesives are versatile and suitable for both cosmetic and two-sided repairs. Plastic welding is another widely used technique, particularly for more significant damage. This process involves pressing plastic surfaces together and applying heat and pressure to create a strong molecular bond, effectively fusing the pieces.
Performing Automotive Plastic Repair: Techniques and Methods
Proper training is essential for mastering the techniques of repairing plastic car body parts using various products and methods. Collision repair technicians adhere strictly to standard operating procedures for each type of repair material.
Precision and meticulousness are paramount in plastic part repair. Experienced auto body technicians prioritize doing the job correctly the first time, taking their time to ensure quality.
Cleanliness is a critical factor in plastic repair. Technicians thoroughly clean plastic parts before beginning any work, using specialized cleaning agents to remove waxes, dirt, and road oils. Compressed air is also used to ensure a contaminant-free surface.
Identifying whether a plastic part is reinforced or nonreinforced is crucial as it influences the repair approach.
Technician grinding down a plastic car part in a repair shop
Fiber-reinforced plastics, common in parts like hoods and fenders, have different densities and require specific repair methods. Often, the damaged area is ground down to relieve stress on the plastic.
For nonreinforced plastics, heat is sometimes applied to soften the material, allowing technicians to push out dents and reshape the part.
Post-Repair Refinishing
After the structural repair is complete, the plastic part typically undergoes refinishing to seamlessly blend with the vehicle’s overall appearance.
Refinish technicians, a specialized career path within collision repair, play a vital role at this stage. These professionals are experts in preparing and applying automotive paint to repaired areas. They meticulously mix colors, sand surfaces, apply tints and sealants to ensure a flawless finish that matches the original vehicle paint.
Collision and refinish technicians collaborate closely to ensure vehicles are restored to their pre-accident condition. Refinish technicians possess in-depth knowledge of paint compatibility with different plastic types, ensuring a smooth and durable refinishing process.
FAQs About Auto Plastic Body Repair
What are the biggest challenges in automotive plastic repair?
The most significant challenges include 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 repairs can interfere with ADAS sensors, compromising vehicle safety.
Can deep scratches on interior car plastic be repaired?
Yes, interior plastic scratches are often repairable. Technicians commonly use heat tools to make the plastic more pliable, then fill the scratch with appropriate fillers, and utilize texturing tools to replicate the original surface pattern. The final steps involve finishing and color matching.
What are the key differences between professional and DIY car plastic repair?
Professional repair technicians adhere to ISO guidelines and have access to advanced tools and specialized materials, ensuring seamless and durable repairs. For high-value vehicles, especially those equipped with ADAS, professional repair is highly recommended.
DIY methods are more affordable and accessible, utilizing car plastic repair kits. However, these kits are best suited for minor damage, and achieving a perfect factory finish and long-term durability can be challenging.
Considering a Career in Auto Plastic Repair?
If you find the intricacies of repairing diverse plastic components on vehicles appealing, and possess a keen eye for detail and enjoy hands-on work, a career in collision repair could be an excellent path for you.
The Collision Repair & Refinish Technology (CRRT) program at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) provides comprehensive training in a wide range of vehicle repair techniques, including plastic repair. This intensive program, typically lasting 51 to 54 weeks, offers the practical skills necessary to excel in this field. Coursework includes modules like “Exterior Panel Repair I,” where students learn to identify various automotive plastics and master different adhesive and welding technologies for effective repairs.
Ready to take the first step towards a rewarding career? Request more information today to connect with a UTI Admissions Representative and explore your options.
UTI Campuses Offering Collision Repair Training
[Start your exciting new career as a mechanic or technician today.]
[Hands-on training. Get hands on experience with the industry’s leading brands.]
[No Pressure to commit. Get answers to your questions without any obligations.]
Related Articles
### What Is a Vehicle Damage Report?
### Auto Damage Appraiser Job Description & Career Information
### How To Fix Faded Car Paint: Guide to Auto Paint Restoring
Disclaimer: 1) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. 2) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures. Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
