The Importance of Automotive Refinishing in the Age of Advanced Technology
As technology continues to advance in the automotive industry, the importance of automotive refinishing has evolved from a mere cosmetic function to a matter of life and death. At a recent meeting of the Collision Industry Conference Parts and Materials Committee, experts highlighted the need for precision in the refinishing process, especially when it involves vehicles equipped with radar and sensors for safety features.
The Role of Advanced Technology in Automotive Refinishing
Automotive manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz are continuously improving their technology with features such as sensors, cameras, and radar systems. For instance, Mercedes-Benz has introduced its Level 3 automated driving feature, Drive Pilot, which utilizes advanced sensors and radar. However, all these technologies require an uninterrupted line of sight to function effectively, making the refinishing process critical in maintaining their performance.
Challenges Faced by Refinish Technicians
Refinish technicians face various challenges when working on vehicles with advanced safety features. In some cases, certain parts with sensors cannot be repainted and must be replaced entirely. Additionally, specific colors have limitations on the number of layers of coating they can undergo, posing constraints for repairers. To ensure the proper functioning of these safety systems, it is crucial for repairers to follow the manufacturers’ procedures and use approved paints for refinishing.
Collaboration between Paint Companies and OEMs
Paint and coating companies like AkzoNobel work closely with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to develop the correct formulas that maintain the functionality of sensors. OEMs provide repair manuals with detailed procedures, but it is the responsibility of refinish technicians to follow these guidelines. As technology advances, it is crucial for technicians to access up-to-date information online, as manual printing becomes outdated quickly.
Factors to Consider in Automotive Refinishing
Refinish technicians must pay close attention to various factors when working on vehicles with radar sensors. These factors include material thickness of the substrate, limitations on certain materials like body fillers and manual tinting, and the impact of different paint types on radar transmission. Technicians should consult the OEM’s repair manuals for specific instructions and be prepared for potential changes in requirements.
Comprehensive Repair Planning
To avoid costly mistakes and delays, repair planning is crucial in the refinishing process. Repairers should create comprehensive repair plans based on OEM guidelines at the beginning of a project. This planning helps identify specific color verification tasks and ensures refinishers adhere to the correct procedures. Having a clear plan also improves communication within the repair team and prevents unnecessary part purchases or redoing of work.
Content and graphics from CIC presentation
Analyst comment
Positive news: The importance of automotive refinishing has evolved to a matter of life and death due to advanced technology in vehicles. This creates opportunities for collaboration between paint companies and OEMs to develop formulas that maintain the functionality of sensors. Refinish technicians must follow manufacturers’ procedures to ensure proper functioning of safety systems. Overall, the market for automotive refinishing is expected to grow as vehicles continue to incorporate advanced technology, increasing the demand for precision refinishing services.
