| Subject: | Information on Discoloration, Blistering, Peeling or Erosion of Various Exterior Emblems Including the Chevy Bowtie |
| Models: | 2007 and Prior GM Passenger Cars and Light/Medium Duty Trucks (including Saturn) |
Chemical Discoloration of Badges
Through warranty reviews and visits to dealership storage lots, it has been determined that certain chemicals may discolor exterior badging. The badges most likely to be affected are referred to as Second Surface Acrylic Emblems. These emblems have a clear
lens over the painted portion that lends depth to the badge. Several aggressive cleaners have been identified that when allowed to soak the emblem may migrate under the lens and discolor it.
Butyl Cellusolve
This chemical is one of the most likely to harm badges. This chemical is found in several cleaning products such as Simple Green, RainX, Orange Blast Wheel Cleaner, Purple Power Engine Degreaser and many others. Most of these products have warnings about
contact with plastics. Further, these products generally are not intended for use as a cleaner of painted surfaces. The exception is Rain X which if added to the washer reservoir may be dispersed into emblems from rear wiper/washers. Avoid the use
of Butyl Cellusolve altogether.
Important: Always use mild soap and water as a first step whenever cleaning a vehicle.
Other Chemical Concerns
The following three chemicals may also harm plastic emblems:
| • | Dihydrate Techorganic Acid |
Contact with these chemicals is sometimes associated with products intended to clean bug marks off vehicles, as well as in diluted form in some commercial car washes.
When using any cleaners on exterior emblems, DO NOT soak the application rag. In some cases the cleaner may not harm the badge if used sparingly and not allowed to seep into the lens of the emblem. Always use mild soap and water as a first step whenever
cleaning a vehicle.
