Chevrolet Cruze Repair Manual: How To Indentify Plastic Parts
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
- Cut a shaving of plastic from the back of the part.
The shaving should be free of mold release agents and paint.
- Place the shaving in a container of water.
- Thermoplastic polyolefin floats.
- Thermoset non-polyolefin sinks.
Abrasion Test
- Sand a spot near the damaged area with Grade 36 Roloc Disc.
- Thermoplastic polyolefin material melts or frays when sanded.
- Thermoset non-polyolefin material sands cleanly.
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
General Plastic Repair
Warning: In order to reduce the risk of personal injury when exposed
to toxic fumes while grinding, cutting, or applying repair material on
any type of sheet molded compound or RIM rigid plastic, o ...
Body systems
...
Other materials:
Where to Put the Restraint
According to accident statistics, children and infants are safer when properly
restrained in a child restraint system or infant restraint system secured in a rear
seating position.
We recommend that children and child restraints be secured in a rear seat, including:
an infant or a child ridin ...
Automatic Headlamp System
When it is dark enough outside and the exterior lamp control is in the automatic
position, the headlamps come on automatically.
The vehicle has a light sensor on top of the instrument panel. Make sure it is
not covered, or the headlamps will be on when they are not needed.
The system may als ...
Engine Overheating
There is an engine coolant temperature gauge on the vehicle instrument cluster
to warn of engine overheating.
If the decision is made not to lift the hood when this warning appears, get service
help right away.
If the decision is made to lift the hood, make sure the vehicle is parked on
a le ...
