For 1990-2009 cars

Exterior body panels are constructed of various materials. This is due to increased dent and corrosion resistance of modern composites. All vertical panels: fenders, doors, quarter and rocker panels are made from rigid thermoplastic. Front and rear fascias, bumper covers, are constructed of thermoplastic olefin (TPO) (3). Hood, roof, and deck are steel (4).

Different materials require different procedures for repair and refinishing. Before starting any repair, identify the type of material involved and follow the correct procedure.

(1) | ABS + PC
(1) | ABS + PC
(1) | ABS + PC
(1) | ABS + PC
(2) | Steel
(2) | Steel
(2) | Steel
(2) | Steel
(2) | Steel
(2) | Steel
(2) | Steel
(3) | TPO
(3) | TPO
(3) | TPO
(4) | PA + PPE

Identifying Symbol | Chemical Composition or Plastic "Family" Name | Typical Area where Used | Common or Trade Names
--- | --- | --- | ---
PE | Polyethylene | Inner Fender Panels, Valances, Spoilers, Inner Trim Panels, Seatbelt Covers, Gas Tank Shields | Dylan, Fortiflex, Marlex, Alathon, Hi-Fax, Hosalen, Paxon
PP | Polypropylene | Kick Panels, Deflector Panels, Cowl Panels, Interior Moldings, Radiator Shrouds, Inner Fenders, Bumper Covers | Profax, Oleflo, Marlex, Azdel, Novolen, Tenite, Daplen, Escorene
ABS | Acrylonitrite/Butadine/Styrene | Instrument Clusters, Trim Moldings, Consoles, Armrest Supports, Steering Column Jackets | ABS, Cycolac, Abson, Kralastic, Lustran, Absafil, Dyel
ABS + PC | Acrylonitrite/Butadine-Styrene + Polycarbonate | Instrument Panels, Exterior Door Panels, Rocker Panel Covers | Babyland, Proloy, Cycoloy, KHA
TPO | Ethylene/Polypropylene (Rubber) | Bumper Covers | TPO, TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) EPI, EPII
PA + PPE | Polyamide + Polyphenylene Ether | Fenders | GTX