Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
EXPERTEC TSB (86-2-16)
Reference number: 86-2-16
EXPERTEC TSB
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
COLOR COAT CHIPS OFF - GUIDELINES FOR INSPECTION
Model(s): All Pontiac Models
Bulletin No.: Pontiac 86-2-16
Date: 09/23/1986
SERVICE INFORMATION
The paint used on all models is designed to withstand certain impact forces without chipping. However, the color coat may chip off on some body panels depending upon a vehicle's design features (hood slope angle, size of front end panel, rocker panel turn under), age, and the severity of impacts.
Chipping paint is caused by the top coat fracturing when impacted by salt, stones and road debris.
Conditions of chipping paint should be carefully evaluated to determine if the cause is related to a paint problem or debris impact. When determining the cause, the following guide lines should be used as reference.
INSPECTION GUIDELINES
- Prior to inspection the body exterior should be clean and free of dirt.
- Carefully inspect all horizontal and vertical body panels for chips.
- Carefully inspect windshield glass, side glass, and exterior moldings for chips and dents.
- Tape Test Chipped Area: Apply a piece of water proof tape approximately 10 inches long over area to be tested. Remove tape with one quick even pulling motion 90 degrees to body panel.
INDICATIONS OF PAINT PROBLEM
- Body panels are chipped and windshield glass and exterior moldings are free of chips and dents.
- Tape Test removes paint in areas not affected by impact.
INDICATIONS OF IMPACT DAMAGE
- Body panels, windshield glass, side glass, and exterior moldings show signs of chips and other damage.
*Β Tape test does not remove paint except around impacted areas.
BULLETIN ILLUSTRATION LIST
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.