Automotive Interior Testing
Scratch and Mar Resistance
Scratch resistance testing is a process used to assess how well materials can withstand scratches and abrasions that may occur during everyday use. This testing is essential for ensuring that interior components such as dashboards, door panels, and center consoles, maintain their appearance and functionality over time.
Typically, scratch resistance testing involves applying a specified force or pressure with a tool or material to the surface of a component to simulate wear. The part is then visually inspected or measured for damage, such as scratches or scuffs, to determine its durability. For automotive OEMs, this testing is crucial as it helps in selecting materials that meet aesthetic and durability standards, which can impact customer satisfaction and brand perception. High scratch resistance can also reduce warranty claims and improve the longevity of the vehicle’s interior, making it a valuable attribute in competitive automotive markets.
Common Test Methods and Standards
ASTM D5178 Standard test method for mar resistance of organic coatings
ASTM F2496 Standard practice for determining the scratch hardness and scrape adhesion of prints and coatings
BMW GS97034-2 Surface test of motor vehicle interior materials, Finger nail test
BMW GS 97034-8 Determination of the scratch inclination
BMW GS 97034-9 Scratch test
British Standards BS 3900:E2 Methods of test for paints. Methods of test for paints. Scratch test
British Standards BS EN ISO 12137-1:2006 Paints and varnishes. Determination of mar resistance. Method using a curved stylus
British Standards BS 3900: E17 Paints and varnishes. Determination of mar resistance. Method using a curved stylus
Ford FLTM BO 162-01 Resistance to Scratch and Marr
Ford BI 161-01 Mar resistance determination for automotive coatings
General Motors GMW14698 Scratch Resistance of Organic Coatings and Self Adhesive Films
GB/T GB/T Plastics – Determination of Scratch Properties
ISO ISO 1518-1 Paints and varnishes — determination of scratch resistance — Part 1: Constant-loading method
ISO ISO 1518-2 Paints and varnishes — determination of scratch resistance — Part 2:Variable-loading method
FCA/Stellantis D45 5523 Resistance to Scratching (Sclerometer Test)
FCA/Stellantis LP-463DD-18-01 Five Finger Scratch Resistance Test Method
FCA/Stellantis LP-463DD-18-02 Scratch and Mar Resistance of Automotive Plastics Using Erichsen Scratch Hardness Tester
VDA VDA 230-218 Plastic Roll Goods for Motor Vehicle Interiors - Test Procedures for Scratch Resistance: Scuffing
Volvo STD 423-0030 Scratch Resitance, Erichsen Pen
Volvo STD 423-0040 Scratch Resistance Using Abrasive Paper
Volkswagen TL 3952 Scratch Resistance Test
Why is testing necessary for automotive interior components?
Types of Materials Commonly Tested
Seating •Leather (natural and synthetic) •Fabric upholstery •Foam padding •Seat frames and mechanisms •Stitching and thread •Heated/ventilated seal components Dashboard •Plastics (ABS, PVC, polyurethane) •Soft-touch coatings •Plated plastic trim •Displays •Vents and HVAC controls •Adhesive layers and bonding materials Instrument Panel •Cluster displays •Buttons, knobs, and switches •Touchscreen surfaces •Backlighting components •Haptic feedback mechanisms Center Console and Door Panels •Plastic trim and bezels •Leather or synthetic coverings •Cup holders, storage compartments •Electronic components (USB ports, chargers) •Armrest materials and padding Wood, metal, or carbon fiber accents •Window switchgear and buttons •Interior door handles and lock mechanisms Steering Wheel •Leather wrapping or synthetic materials •Metal and plastic structural elements •Control buttons •Heated steering components •Airbag cover materials Flooring and Mats •Carpet fibers •All-weather rubber mats •Sound-dampening materials •Floor insulation layers Roof Liner •Fabric liners •Sunroof or panoramic roof trim •Insulation and soundproofing materials Interior Lighting •LEDs and backlighting modules •Ambient lighting strips •Dome and reading lights