Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Tesla

A simple bumper repair on a modern vehicle may not be as simple as it seems. New technologies like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and other advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) utilize sensors behind the bumper covers. The ability for these sensors to be able to see clearly, normally requires special caution when considering a bumper repair. Many OEMs have different levels of warnings when it comes to repairing bumper covers with ADAS. So, what does Tesla say on the subject?

Tesla provides plastic repair information in Collision Repair Procedures ➤ General Repair Guidelines ➤ Plastic Components Repair Guidelines.

Tesla states:

• "Caution Plastic repairs are not allowed in the area of radar sensors. Refer to Front Bumper Fascia Repair Guidelines for more information."
• "Non-safety related plastic components can be repaired using industry standard tools and methods, such as nitrogen welding or two-part adhesive designed for plastic repair. "

Collision Repair Procedures ➤ Part Repairability Guidelines ➤ Front Bumper Fascia Repair Guidelines:

• Provides detailed information on acceptable front bumper cover repair and refinishing including specific measurements where repairs are not to be performed.
• There are no restrictions for rear bumper cover, lower valances, or ducting assembly repairs.

Tesla states:

• "After refinishing the front bumper fascia, the paint thickness in the radar area must not exceed 300 microns (12 mils). Use a paint thickness measurement tool designed to work with plastic to determine paint coat thickness.
• Do not remove the base plastic material in the radar area. The radar sensor is calibrated to the factory thickness of the plastic. Removing excessive plastic material in this area might result in incorrect radar function.
• Repairing the front bumper fascia outside of the radar area is allowed, but do not perform any repairs in the radar area. (Repairs include adding plastic filler, glueing, plastic welding, plastic stapling, or leaving a feathered paint edge.)"

Always reference the OEM vehicle-specific repair procedures for guidelines when working with ADAS to ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

For additional Tesla information, check out the Tesla OEM Information page.

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
ADAS, Calibration, And Scanning Article Hotspot
Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS
Collision Information Website Access: Tesla
Locating ADAS Information: Tesla
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