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.
Masking (2000-2004): Masking
A separate roll-holder should be used for masking paper and masking tape to make masking easier.
Use strong lint-free masking paper of sufficient quality to prevent the permeation of solvents.
Use 19 and 39 mm wide elastic masking tape. The tape should be able to withstand temperatures of at least 80°C and not leave adhesive residue after oven heating. Use the masking tape rationally.
Do not wrap protruding parts such as door handles etc., but instead tape along their edges.
Always stick the tape on firmly to prevent paint runs.
The degree and extent of the surrounding masking depends whether partial, total or localized spot paintwork repairs are to be carried out.
If for example partial painting of the front right fender (wing) is necessary, then the entire vehicle should be masked to avoid splashes and paint fog on the surrounding paintwork.
Localized spot repairs on the other hand are carried out in such a way that it is often sufficient to mask off just the area to be repaired, in order to avoid splashes and paint fog on the surrounding paintwork.
Border masking tape
A border masking tape for paintwork repairs is used in addition to the traditional masking tape. The masking tape is supplied in 50 meter (5x10 meter) packs, which can be ordered using part number 1 161 418-7.
Areas of use:
- door openings
- engine hood (bonnet)
- trunk (boot)
- smaller areas (e.g. partially painted doors)
- sunroof openings
The masking tape gives a softer transition at seams when partially painting bodywork. Other parts which are not to be painted are masked in the traditional manner.
Masking of windshield trim when painting the roof
The rear window on 1992 models has integrated decorative trim so that it is not necessary to remove the glass when respraying.
The masking consists of a hard plastic sheet which is inserted between the windshield trim and the bodywork and taped towards the rear window.
Insert the plastic sheet between the bodywork and the trim.
Press the sheeting against the window and tape it firmly to the glass.
Other masking is carried out with masking paper.
| 15 mm | 06348 |
| 10 mm | 06349 |
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.