COLOR COAT CHIPS OFF GUIDELINES FOR INSPECTION
Models Affected: All
The paint used on all Buick cars is designed to withstand certain impact forces without chipping. However, the color coat may chip off on some body panels depending upon a vehicle's design features (hood slope angle, size of front end panel, rocker panel turn under), age, and the severity of impacts.
Chipping paint is caused by the inability of the top coat to flex enough when impacted by salt, stones and road gravel.
Conditions of chipping paint should be carefully evaluated to determine if the cause is related to a paint problem or owner usage. When determining the cause, the following guide lines should be used as reference.
INSPECTION GUIDELINES
1. Prior to inspection the body exterior should be clean and free of dirt.
2. Carefully inspect all horizontal and vertical body panels for chips.
3. Carefully inspect windshield glass, side glass, and exterior moldings for chips and dents.
4. Tape Test Chipped Area:
Apply a piece of waterproof tape approximately 10 inches long over chipped area. Remove tape with one quick, even pulling motion 90 degrees to body panel.
INDICATIONS OF PAINT PROBLEN
o Body panels are chipped and windshield glass and exterior moldings are free of chips and dents.
o Tape Test removes paint.
INDICATIONS OF OWNER USAGE
o Body panels, windshield glass, side glass, and exterior moldings show signs of chips and other damage.
o Tape Test Does Not Remove Paint.
General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
