Toronto, Ontario — In an announcement put out by the American automaker last week, Ford has decided to place significant repair restrictions on all of the company’s ADAS-equipped bumper fascias going forward, a move likely to have ramifications felt across all sectors of the automotive industry.
“During body repairs that involve front and rear bumper fascias, it is critical that the vehicle be restored to proper operating condition to ensure that these important safety systems function correctly. Repair of bumper fascias using fillers, reinforcement tape, hot staples or plastic welding can adversely affect ADAS operation,” read the May 3 statement.
“For this reason, Ford Motor Company is limiting repairs on front and rear bumper fascias on all Ford Motor Company vehicles equipped with any ADAS features to topcoat refinish only. Topcoat finish cannot exceed 12 mils (300 microns) in total thickness. Any bumper fascia damage that requires substrate repairs must be replaced.”
This move from Ford comes at a time when many OEMs are stressing the importance of using proper OEM-certified parts in repairs, citing instances of ADAS malfunctions where unapproved repair procedures were proven to be the cause.
Ford outlined specifically which sorts of procedures would longer be approved for ADAS-equipped bumper fascia repairs:
- Paint repairs can be made if the material thickness does not exceed 12 mils (300 microns) in total thickness
- Use of any filler materials or reinforcement tapes to repair substrate damage is not permitted
- Use of hot staples or plastic welding to repair cracks or damage is not permitted
- Repair of any sonic-welded sensor retainer rings or tabs is not allowed, due to possible misalignment and incorrect operation of the sensor
- Note that vehicle wraps, bumper stickers and aftermarket accessories in the area of the fascia can create system operation concerns
Collision Repair has reached out to Ford Canada for clarity as to whether this announcement applies in Canada as well, and will update as the story develops.
A link to Ford’s announcement can be found here.
