Corrosion Protection Guidelines: Tesla

A key factor in collision repair is making long-lasting repairs. When a vehicle is repaired, many areas of corrosion protection are disturbed. This creates corrosion hot spots that left untreated will lead to corrosion and potentially a repair failure. However, there are certain precautions that can be taken to safely and properly restore the corrosion protection, throughout the repair process. OEMs often give specifications on restoring corrosion protection. These specifications generally include seam sealers, adhesives, foam fillers, and cavity waxes. Let's take a look at what Tesla says.

Corrosion protection guidelines are in: General Information ➤ Performing A Structural Repair On A Tesla Vehicle ➤ Post Repair Operations.

Per the Post Repair Operations document:

"After a structural repair has been completed, apply an anti-corrosion coating to all bare metal parts of the vehicle body structure and any metal fasteners used in the structural repair. After the vehicle has been refinished, apply an anti-corrosion coating inside body cavities with a 360-degree spray wand of suitable length via factory access holes in the vehicle structure.

Suitable anti-corrosion coatings include:

  • Epoxy-based primers designed for automotive collision repair applications.
  • Approved structural adhesive (in the immediate vicinity of repair areas).
  • Cavity wax designed for automotive collision repair applications.

Note: For information on the proper application of the product, refer to the technical specifications and manufacturer's instructions for the corrosion protection product being used."

Tesla provides guidelines for material selection under vehicle-specific Collision Repair Procedures ➤ Approved Parts, Tools And Supplies. The following categories are where you find recommended seam sealers, structural adhesives, foams and refinishing product systems:

  • Approved Adhesives, Urethane Sealants, and Foam Products
  • Paint Systems That Meet Tesla Warranty Requirements

Always follow OEM repair procedures for all repairs. Failure to follow corrosion protection guidelines can lead to premature failure on a repair. Using the proper corrosion protection will ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

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

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