Weld-Through Primer Guidelines: Kia

Weld-through primers are generally a zinc-based product that are applied to the mating surfaces prior to welding. Corroding zinc forms zinc oxide which protects the steel. This is called sacrificial corrosion. For a quality weld to be made it’s required that the weld-through primer be removed from the direct weld zone before welding the joint when GMA welding. Many OEMs have a position on when and how to use weld-through primer or when it shouldn’t be utilized. Let’s see what Kia recommends and where this information can be found.

Information can be found in the vehicle-specific body repair manual (BRM). Kia calls out the use of weld-through primer within replacement or sectioning procedures. These procedures are under: Body Repair ➤ Body Repair Manual ➤ Body Panel Repair Procedures.

Per a 2025 K4 (CL4M) Quater Panel ➤ Repair Procedures: "Apply zinc corrosion inhibitor to the plug welded area in which adhesive cannot be applied."

Per a 2024 K5(DL3A) Quater Panel ➤ Repair Procedures: "Apply zinc corrosion inhibitor for welding."

Kia recommends applying weld-through primer (zinc corrosion inhibitor) for welding in most part replacement procedures. Kia does not recommend a specific brand of weld-through primer.

Use the vehicle-specific BRMs to determine which type of welding is required for the repair you are performing. Failure to follow OEM procedures sacrifices the safety and quality of the repair.

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

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