Aluminum vs. Steel Autobody Repair: What You Need to Know
For a long time, the automotive industry has relied heavily on steel for autobody construction. However, today, aluminum has become the "fastest growing automotive material."
Aluminum offers a unique advantage to its users, including its lightweight properties, improved fuel efficiency, and zero emissions.
The exceptional qualities of aluminum influence its repair cost and procedure differently from steel.
Let's dive into all you need to know to make informed decisions, whether you're purchasing or repairing an aluminum autobody.
Aluminum vs. Steel—What's the Difference?
Steel is the traditional autobody material.
It is heavier, easier, and cheaper to weld or patch together.
Aluminum is a lightweight autobody material, corrosion-resistant, but highly technical to repair. Its repair is not cheaper either.
Here is why automakers use aluminum:
- Better fuel economy, performance, and safety
- Zero emissions, promoting healthier environments
This shift means that when your car gets even a little dent, repairs rely extensively on whether you're dealing with aluminum or steel. You must not make a mistake at this point. Know your next move.
What's Aluminum Autobody Repair?
Many modern vehicles, including Ford, Tesla, and luxury brands, use aluminum. However, most owners don't understand what aluminum repair is like.
Aluminum autobody repairs are special, not because they're lightweight but because of the level of intricacy required for their repairs.
It requires dedication, specialized tools, training, and a contamination-free facility for a successful aluminum body repair.
Aluminum behaves differently under stress. For aluminum, it's not about welding and hammering.
Key Differences Between Aluminum and Steel Repair
Metal Memory
Metal memory is one of the major key differences between aluminum and steel repair.
Metal memory is the ability to be responsive to straightening and reshaping. Steel has metal memory, which allows it to be reshaped and strengthened easily when deformed.
On the other hand, aluminum does not possess "metal memory", which makes it harder to repair when it's dented or deformed.
Why Aluminum Repair Requires a Certified Shop
- The risk of cross-contamination with steel particles is a significant concern. A clean and secure facility is highly recommended for aluminum repairs.
- Specialized training and certification from manufacturers are essential for aluminum repairs.
- Only shops that are specially trained and certified by a specific car model or manufacturer can be trusted with aluminum repairs.
- Shops that involve bonding, riveting, and advanced structural adhesives instead of welding are better equipped to handle aluminum repairs.
Specialization is essential for aluminum autobody restoration. Only allow standard shops to handle your delicate vehicle.
Common Aluminum Repair Mistakes
- Using the wrong tools can cause corrosion.
- Overheating panels during repair can lead to melting or complete damage.
- Half-baked bonding leads to weak joints.
- Using the wrong procedure or skipping the manufacturer's standards can lead to serious problems.
Regal Repair's Aluminum Expertise
Many car owners have experienced our advanced expertise in repairing an aluminum autobody. But we continue to improve every day—why?
- We are OEM-certified aluminum repair specialists.
- Our facility is favorable, facilitating contamination-free aluminum repairs.
- We use state-of-the-art equipment and technology for riveting, bonding, and frame straightening.
- Trusted by luxury car owners for our excellent experience and results.
Final Thoughts on Aluminum Repair Being Different from Steel
Aluminum repair requires a special and sophisticated repair approach compared to steel. So, you cannot trust just any repair shop with your aluminum-body car.
If you need help repairing your aluminum auto body, you can schedule a call with us at Regal Repair.
Let's work together to restore your vehicle to the manufacturer's standards.
Schedule Your Aluminum Repair
