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Adhesives, Sealants & Fillers

3M Adhesives, Sealants & Fillersfor Collision Repair

Leading body shops follow OEM repair procedures.

Help protect yourself, your shop, and your customer by repairing the vehicle the right way, every time. Repair confidently with 3M Adhesive Sealants and Seam Sealers.

Research

Search the original equipment manufacturer’s website for the most up-to-date repair procedures, process guides, bulletins and positioning statements important to the repair.
Document the Procedure

Make sure to document the procedure at the time of repair. Include in the repair order:

- OEM repair procedures used

- Before and after photos

- Detailed scan report

Never forget these steps, hang this infographic in your shop. (PDF, 157 KB)
Improve Accuracy

Checking OEM repair procedures before starting a repair can help you write more accurate estimates, order the correct parts, and source the proper products.
Always Validate

OEM procedures and products change frequently. Even if you have repaired a vehicle multiple times, validate OEM procedures are current.
Select the Right Products

The solutions used to complete the repair are equally important as the procedure. OEMs call out specific products for use in the repair to achieve the best results.

Explore the online catalog
Get Paid

Following OEM repair procedures can help you get paid for the work you do and the materials you use to complete the repair. Build your research and materials into the repair estimate.

If these steps aren't part of your repair process, you may want to adopt them. Ryan Marrinan, 3M Application Engineer, explores the importance of OEM Repair Procedures.

Read the Article (PDF, 2.1 MB)

technician applying 3M adhesive sealant seam sealer

Seam sealing replication made easier

Help save time and effort with 3M OEM Match Family of seam sealer solutions

GET FACTORY-QUALITY SEAMS - EXPLORE 3M PRODUCTS

OEM Resources and an Overview of Fillers, Adhesives and Sealants for Collision Repair - Key Questions and Answers for the Body Shop

How do I rebuild the structure of OEM seam to make my repair invisible?
NOTE :The structures of seam seals often differ from manufacturer to manufacturer. Four of the most commonly used seams are the swirl bead, push-pull bead, textured OEM bead and flat Bead. In the end, the right choice of nozzle and pressure is key.

Steps to reproduce OEM seams:

Assess the OEM Bead: Carefully study the OEM seam or bead that you want to replicate. Take note of its size, shape, texture, and any specific patterns or contours.

Choose the Right Sealant: Select a sealant that is designed and recommended by the OEM manufacturer for replicating OEM beads or seams.

Masking: Use masking tape to create guides for where you want to apply the sealant. This will help you ensure that the bead is uniform and follows the contours of the original seam.

Apply the Sealant: Load the chosen sealant into a caulk gun or applicator. Apply the sealant along the guides you've created. Be mindful of the bead's size and shape as you apply it. Use a steady and consistent hand to maintain evenness.

Blend Seam with Surrounding Area: Feather the ends of the bead into the surrounding area for a seamless transition. This is important to make the repair less noticeable.

Curing Time: Allow the sealant to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions. It's important to let it fully set before proceeding with any further steps.

Painting: Once the sealant has cured, you can proceed with painting the repaired area to match the rest of the vehicle. Follow the standard painting and finishing procedures for automotive paint to ensure a professional finish.

Final Inspection: After painting and finishing, inspect the repair to ensure that the replicated bead matches the surrounding OEM seams in terms of appearance, texture, and contour.

Optional Clear Coat: For an extra level of protection and to achieve a factory-like finish, you can apply a clear coat over the painted area. This will help protect the repair and make it less noticeable.
Can I use your plastic repair material on all types of plastic?
The plastics most commonly used and repaired in vehicle construction are as follows:
- PP/EPDM – polyethylene ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (Thermoplastic)
- ABS – Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (Thermoplastic)
- PUR – Polyurethan (Thermo set)
- GFK – glassfibre reinforced plastics (Plastic Composite)
3M has a variety of products for repairing plastics depending on plastic types, but also according to the repair to make:

For scratches: 3M™ EZ Sand Multi Purpose Repair Material, PN 05887 to repair all types of plastic parts (PP*, EP*, TPO*, PP/EPDM*, PC, PUR, ABS, etc.)

For holes & cracks: 3M™ Flexible Bumper Patch, PN 05888 and 3M™ EZ Sand Multi Purpose Repair Material, PN 05887

For Broken parts for example headlight tab: 3M™ Super Fast Plastic Repair Adhesive, 04247 (Clear)

* Use 3M™ Polyolefin Adhesion Promoter 05907 prior to adhesive application for polyolefins identified by the mold marks (PP, PE, TPO or EPDM, do not use it on ABS).

** 3M™ Flexible Bumper Patch, PN 05888 is used with 3M™ Adhesion Promotor 06396 and can be used on LSE plastics, as well as TPO, PPO, PP, PC, PC and ABS).
For which bonding application can I use which body repair adhesive?
Adhesive repair in automotive applications can be categorised into two main types: structural and non-structural adhesives.

Here are the key differences and their respective applications:

Non-Structural Adhesives: primarily used for bonding and repairing non-load-bearing components.

Non-structural adhesives are applied to repair various non-critical parts, including:
- Bumpers
- Trim pieces
- Interior components
- Roof skin
- Door skin
- Sill
- Quarter panels/Truck Box/Van Side
Structural Adhesives: designed to provide load-bearing capabilities and structural integrity to the repaired components. They create a strong bond that can withstand forces and stresses.

These adhesives are commonly used in repairing critical structural components, such as:
- Frame members
- Roof panels/skin
- Front Upper/Lower Rail
- Body Side
- Structural pillars (A, B, C pillars) uniside
- Sill
- Rear Unibody/Wheel Opening
The choice between structural and non-structural adhesives depends on the severity of the damage and the specific automotive component you're repairing. Structural adhesives are essential when restoring the vehicle's overall strength and safety, while non-structural adhesives are suitable for cosmetic and less critical repairs. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and guidelines when selecting and using these adhesives, as they can vary based on the make and model of the car.

Refer to our brochure for more information related to our structural adhesives.

3M Solutions for OEM Repair Procedures (PDF, 2.2 MB)
How thick can I apply body filler?
Independent studies have shown a negative impact of thicker layer of body filler material.

3M recommends for polyester-based as well as epoxy-based body fillers, to apply them in layers no thicker than 2-3mm at a time. Applying thicker layers can lead to problems with drying and curing, as well as air inclusion.

Recommendation for body filler application for car repairs:

Ensure the surface is clean and free of rust, dirt and contaminants.
Prepare the surface and products, ensure they are at recommended usage temperature.
Prepare body filler according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Use appropriate safety equipment, including gloves, eye protection and a dust mask when working with filler.

Curing of Body Fillers:

Proper curing is crucial for achieving a strong and durable repair when using body fillers. The curing process varies depending on the type of filler you're using, whether it's polyester-based or epoxy-based. Refers to 3M technical documentation to follow the right curing or forced curing process depending on the product used.

General Tips for Curing:

Ensure the repaired area is in a well-ventilated space while curing to allow any fumes or gases to dissipate.
Avoid exposing the curing filler to excessive moisture during the curing process, as this can negatively affect the quality of the repair.
Temperature and humidity can influence curing times - warmer conditions typically speeding up the process.
If you're uncertain about whether the filler has fully cured, you can perform a "thumbnail test." Gently press your thumbnail into an inconspicuous area of the filler. If it leaves an indentation, the filler may not be fully cured.

In summary, understanding and following the recommended curing procedures for the specific type of body filler you're using is essential for achieving a successful and long-lasting repair. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions and consider environmental factors to ensure proper curing.

18 products

Your selections:

Filter

3M™ Reinforcement Patch 04904, 5 in x 12 ft Roll 6/Case

3M Stock

7000121599

Previous 3M Stock

62961599016

UPC

00051131049048

Alternative ID

04904

3M™ Super-Fast Repair Adhesive, 04747, 50 mL

3M™ Super Fast Repair Adhesive 04747, Amber, 47.3 mL Cartridge 6/Case

3M Stock

7100006276

Previous 3M Stock

60455052427

UPC

00051131047471

Alternative ID

04747

3M™ Acryl-White Glazing Putty 14.5 oz, PN 05095

3M™ Acryl Putty, 05095, White, 14.5 oz, 12 tubes per case

3M Stock

7000045479

Previous 3M Stock

60455049217

UPC

00051131050952

Alternative ID

05095

3M™ OEM Seam Sealer Tip Adapter 08206, 6/Bag, 6 Bags/Case

3M Stock

7000045428

Previous 3M Stock

60455030993

Alternative ID

08206

3M™ Flexible Foam 08463, 200 mL Cartridge 6/Case

3M Stock

7100045768

Previous 3M Stock

60980036473

UPC

00051131084636

Alternative ID

08463

3M™ OEM Match Air Supply Kit 33999, 10 Kits/Case

3M Stock

7100320196

Previous 3M Stock

60450008218

UPC

00068060060068

Alternative ID

33999

3M™ Automix™ EZ Sand Rigid Parts Repair 05885

3M™ Rigid Parts Repair 05885, Blue, 200 mL Cartridge 6/Case

3M Stock

7100020862

Previous 3M Stock

60980030849

UPC

00051131058859

Alternative ID

05885

3M™ Semi-Rigid Plastic Repair, 34240, 50 mL

3M™ Semi-Rigid Plastic Repair 34240, 47.3 mL Cartridge 6/Case

3M Stock

7000045498

Previous 3M Stock

60455052401

UPC

00051131342408

Alternative ID

34240

3M™ Automix™ EZ Sand Flexible Parts Repair 05887

3M™ EZ Sand Multi Purpose Repair Material 35887, 47.3 mL Cartridge 6/Case

3M Stock

7000045496

Previous 3M Stock

60455052096

UPC

00051131358874

Alternative ID

35887

3M™ OEM Match Ripple Tip

Options available

3M™ Platinum™ Select Filler, 31131, Gallon

3M™ Platinum™ Select Filler 31131, 1 gal ( 102 fl oz), 4/Case

3M Stock

B40071784

UPC

00051131311312

3M™ Flexible Bumper Patch 05888, Kit, Black, 4 in x 8 in, 1/Case

3M Stock

7000045602

UPC

00051131058880

Alternative ID

05888

3M™ Plastic Contour Sheet 04903, 5 in x 12 ft Roll 6/Case

3M Stock

7000121598

Alternative ID

04903

3M™ Static Mixing Nozzle 38191, 50 mL, 12 Nozzles/Bag, 6 Bags/Case

3M Stock

7100001223

Alternative ID

38191

oem-match-wing-nozzle-tips_op_family.tif

3M™ OEM Match Wing Nozzle Tip

Options available

3M™ OEM Match Seam Sealer

Options available

3M™ OEM Match Sprayable Tip

Options available

oem-match-wide-stream-tips_op_family.tif

3M™ OEM Match Wide Stream Tip

Options available