Aluminum panels have proven to be a handy material in the automotive industry. The material is lightweight, which has allowed automakers to keep the weight of a vehicle down in order to fit it into a specific emissions class. Some luxury car manufacturers have even used the material to construct the entire body of certain vehicles, making them more streamlined and giving them the ability to get to higher speeds in less time. The material is also a cost-effective way for automakers to boost fuel economy.
However, though aluminum has proven to be beneficial in some ways, it is also proving to create challenges when it comes to body repairs.
The Challenges of Aluminum
It used to be that steel was the material of choice for automakers, and this material is still largely used. While it is heavier, steel is easier to reshape if it is damaged. For example, if there's a dent in a steel panel, it can be 'popped' out in order to repair the damage. Aluminum isn't as pliable as steel, so when it becomes damaged, it isn't as easy to put back into its original shape.
Repairing Aluminum
Being that aluminum is more challenging to repair than steel, specialty tools are required to make those repairs. Additionally, auto body technicians will require training in order to properly utilize these tools so that they can properly repair damage to aluminum.
Another important thing to note is that separate tools and work areas need to be used when repairing aluminum and steel to avoid cross-contamination. If aluminum is exposed to steel, it will eventually corrode. It doesn't take much steel to contaminate aluminum; just a few specks of steel dust can wreck havoc on an aluminum panel.
Things to Look for in Auto Body Shops
If you have purchased a vehicle with any aluminum features and it becomes damaged, finding an auto repair shop that specializes in aluminum repair is critical for proper repair.
When looking for an auto body shop to repair any aluminum damage on your vehicle, make sure that the technicians have received training in aluminum repair. Ask them to present documentation that certifies they have received this training. Also, ensure that they utilize work bays and tools that are separate from steel repairs in order to make repairs on aluminum.
There are definitely advantages to owning a car that contains aluminum; however, it is important that you are aware of the challenges that repairing this material can present.
For more information about aluminum repair, contact a company like Exoticar Paintworks Inc.
Share4 August 2015
Understanding more about the type of car that you have can help you understand the best ways to maintain it, and how to tell if there’s trouble brewing under the hood before you end up stranded. That’s why, when I found a car make that I liked, I kept going back to it every time I bought a new car. It’s also why I use a mechanic that specializes in repairing and maintaining cars made by my specific manufacturer type. Over the years, I’ve learned so much about what makes this particular car work, and what kind of quirks come with this type of vehicle. I started this blog to share some of that information and help other car owners learn to effectively maintain their automobiles and recognize the potential signs of trouble.
