How Long Do Automotive Plastics Last and Why Do They Deteriorate?
Automotive plastics are an integral part of modern cars, serving various functions such as protecting sensitive components, enhancing aesthetics, and improving fuel efficiency. However, like any material, they are prone to degradation over time. In this article, we will explore the process of plastic deterioration in automotive parts, focusing on why and how long it takes for them to start crumbling, especially in external components like bulb holders.
Why Do Automotive Plastics Deteriorate?
The degradation of automotive plastics primarily occurs due to exposure to environmental factors, particularly heat and UV radiation. These elements cause the plasticizers, compounds that keep plastics flexible and elastic, to evaporate out of the material.
Once the plasticizers are evaporated, the plastic becomes brittle and susceptible to cracking and crumbling. This process is accelerated in areas exposed to more direct sunlight and heat, such as the exterior of the vehicle. Interestingly, even the interior of the car, especially window surfaces, can develop a film of gases released by both occupants and the vehicle's materials.
A Personal Anecdote
My sister’s experience highlights the variability in the quality of automotive plastics. In the 1980s, she purchased an economy car through a Chevrolet dealership, which was manufactured at the same NUMMI plant in Fremont, CA, as the Toyota Corolla. However, the Chevrolet version used different plastic parts, particularly in the interior, leading to premature deterioration of components like door handles.
When she decided to sell the car more than five years later, she noticed that the door handles were already crumbling, a stark contrast to the same part on the Toyota version, which remained robust. This discrepancy suggests that manufacturers sometimes compromise on the quality of plastics to save costs, despite the eventual negative impact on the vehicle's lifespan.
Automotive Plastics and Durability
The expected lifespan of automotive plastics varies based on the manufacturer and specific component. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) set warranty periods that require their suppliers to ensure the product lasts a certain number of years under normal use conditions. These periods can range from three to ten years, with five to eight years being the common range in the United States.
While some components, such as those in the engine bay, may last longer, parts exposed to the external environment, like bulb holders in external lights, often start to deteriorate after the warranty period ends. It is reasonable to expect failures in these components after five years, although some vehicles might not show signs of deterioration for a decade or more.
Understanding the degradation process can help owners and manufacturers alike to better manage the lifecycle of automotive parts and ensure longer-lasting vehicles. By addressing the key factors leading to plastic deterioration, such as environmental exposure, manufacturers can improve the overall quality and longevity of their products.
Keywords: auto plastics degradation, plasticizer evaporation, automotive plastic durability