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Changes in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) radar technology are introducing new refinishing considerations. We know that paint film thickness can affect the performance of ADAS radars, but color formula selection may also be a contributing factor. What resources do repairers have available? Let’s see what BASF has to offer.
BASF offers resources relating to ADAS radar optimized color formulas. BASF provides definitions, general rules for bumpers, and information for locating radar compatible color formulas in the Radar & Sensors e-book on the Glasurit Know-How knowledge platform.
BASF states in the Influence Of Refinish Products area:
- "A sufficient degree of transmission and a level of reflection as low as possible are indispensable for sensors placed behind plastic car parts to send and receive RADAR waves correctly. The RADAR transmission threshold is defined by every vehicle manufacturer."
- "A strong influencing factor are metallic effect pigments. However, the coating is only one influencing factor besides many others."
The Key Measurement Values Related To Radar area describes terms commonly used for radar measurements which include transmission, absorption, reflection, and permittivity.
Per the General Rules For Repairing Bumpers With Radar Sensors Installed Behind area:
- "Identify the car model and RADAR transmission area on the bumper following OEM's instructions and/or OEM provided tools before repairs."
- "If there are damages/defects to the plastic substrates (front side and/or back side), such as scratches, dents, cracks, etc. within the RADAR transmission areas, no repairs are allowed. The bumper covers should be replaced instead."
- "Application of body filler within RADAR Transmission Area is, in general, not permitted."
- "The entire RADAR transmission area must be coated evenly to ensure consistent film thickness within RADAR beam area. Blending within the RADAR transmission area is not permitted!"
The Radar Compatible Colors area contains information on retrieving RADAR compliant colors. BASF states:
- "When repairing bumpers with RADAR sensors installed behind, it is important to use the RADAR formulation (OEM approved) when available to help ensure proper RADAR functionality."
- "The RADAR compatible formulation will be stored additionally under a RADAR variant (RADAR Standard or R-variant - "RADAR Standard or R-variant" stands for RADAR compatible formula of the "standard variant"). The existing standard formula will remain unchanged."
- "Note: The new approved RADAR formulations are subject to software update cycles, therefore there may be differences in the publishing between Refinity and SmartTRAK."
- "However, some OEMs might have special requirements/rules for adjusting the RADAR formulation. In that case, please strictly follow the OEM’s instructions accordingly where applicable when adjusting the RADAR formulation."
Improper color selection and application may cause ADAS to malfunction and potentially fail. Check OEM repair information to identify what restrictions may apply to the repairs you are considering. Always verify that the ADAS is functioning properly after completing repairs.
Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
- ADAS, Calibration, And Scanning Article Hotspot
- Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS
- Paint Maker ADAS Radar Optimized Color Resources
- Understanding Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- When ADAS Can't See