This SAE Recommended Practice defines the information required to repair the various types of plastics found on modern light-duty highway vehicles. Information is included for the repair and refinishing of most plastic body parts, both interior and exterior. Repair information is described for all commonly used plastics including, but not limited to, polyurethanes, polycarbonate blends, modified polypropylenes, polyethylenes and nylons. Repairs can be made to these types of plastics using two-part (2K) repair adhesives, plastic welding, and other materials available from body shop suppliers. When a new type of plastic is being introduced to the market through a new vehicle program, specific repair and refinishing procedures should be provided, following the format in this document.

Sheet-molded compounds (SMC), fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) and carbon fiber reinforced plastics can also be repaired using slightly different procedures and repair materials.

Purpose

The average composition of plastics and composites in U.S. vehicles has increased from approximately 230 pounds in 1995 to 350 pounds in 2008, with several types being used for structural and mechanical applications. Interior and exterior plastic body parts have become an integral part of the automotive design, reducing overall weight to aid in increasing fuel efficiency. The use of plastic compounds for these parts has expanded to include many variations of plastics and blends of plastics over the years. This document is intended to guide vehicle manufacturers, material suppliers, and equipment suppliers in providing timely repair information to repairers and insurers. Providing this information prior to vehicle introduction is necessary to allow damaged vehicles to be restored to their pre-accident condition.