Thermoplastic Compounds

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Ford Flex. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

In deciding whether to repair or install a new component, follow these guidelines.
- Is a part readily available?
- Can the damaged part be economically returned to its original strength and appearance, or will the labor cost exceed the cost of a new component?
- Will repair provide for the fastest, highest quality repair?
NOTE: The following steps are to be used as a guideline. Depending on what brand of adhesives or patch materials are used, procedures may vary slightly.

Thoroughly clean the damaged area with wax and grease remover formulated for use with plastics.
Hand sand the repair area with 80-grit sandpaper and remove any foreign material with compressed air.
Apply a plastics adhesion promoter per label directions to the repair area.
For small repairs, a plastic adhesive filler can be applied to the damaged area. Follow manufacturer's directions and build layers to form a thickness above the damaged area. This will allow the area to be sanded smooth.
To repair large holes or cracks, measure and cut a piece of fiberglass cloth or equivalent 25.4 mm (1 in) larger than the crack or hole.
- Apply plastic repair adhesive to the damaged area and immediately apply fiberglass cloth into plastic adhesive for reinforcement. Apply additional plastic repair adhesive for strength and shape as required.
Contour and shape the repair as necessary with a D/A sander. Avoid sanding through the repair.
Finish-sand the area and carry out any required paint operations using Ford-approved paint systems.