Plastic parts can be identified by the SAE code, which is usually found on the rear of the part, and/or by the characteristics of the plastic.
Knowing the type of plastic aids in selecting the proper repair materials and in selecting the proper repair procedure.
Look for the SAE code stamped into the part.
Code Found
Match the code to those in the plastic identification chart to determine whether the plastic is thermoplastic or thermoset plastic, and whether the plastic is rigid or flexible. Refer to Plastic Identification and Refinishing Systems
No Code Found
Warning: Do NOT use a plastic burn test to distinguish the type of plastic. The burn test produces vapors which are harmful.
Perform one or both of the following tests to determine if the part is thermoplastic polyolefin or thermoset non-polyolefin.
Float Test
The shaving should be free of mold release agents and paint.
Abrasion Test
Thermoplastic and thermoset plastics can be either rigid or flexible. Thermoplastic plastic parts are best repaired with a hot iron plastic material-feed welder, but are usually replaced. Thermoset plastic can be repaired with epoxy or other more rigid 2 package repair material.
For general repair instructions, refer to General Plastic Repair.
Plastic Identification and Refinishing Systems
Tire Sidewall Labeling
Useful information about a tire is molded into its sidewall. The examples show
a typical passenger vehicle tire and a compact spare tire sidewall.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire Example
(1) Tire Size: The tire size is a combination of letters and numbers used
to define a particular tire's wid ...
Passenger Sensing System
The vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the front outboard passenger position.
The passenger airbag status indicator will light on the instrument panel when the
vehicle is started.
United States
Canada
The words ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, will be visible during the
...
Rear Side Door Stationary Window Replacement
Preliminary Procedures
Remove the rear side door trim panel. Refer to Rear Side Door Trim
Replacement.
Remove the rear side water deflector. Refer to Rear Side Door Water
Deflector Replacement.
Remove the rear door window outer sealing strip. Refer to Rear Side Door
Window ...