Modern vehicle bumper repairs are no longer straightforward, especially with the integration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These systems, including blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, rely on sensors often located behind bumper covers. For Mercedes-Benz vehicles, specific guidelines must be followed to ensure these sensors function correctly after a bumper repair. Let’s delve into Mercedes-Benz’s recommendations for bumper cover repairs when ADAS is involved.
Mercedes-Benz Guidelines on Bumper Repair with ADAS
Mercedes-Benz permits bumper cover repairs under certain conditions, primarily focusing on the repair location and frequency. According to the Mercedes-Benz Driver Assistance Systems Technology Guide, a crucial point is the paint coat thickness on the bumper. The guide explicitly states that “filler repairs may not be carried out in the area of the sensors on the bumper,” and emphasizes observing paint coat thickness. This regulation is particularly relevant for vehicles equipped with blind spot monitoring, highlighting the sensitivity of these sensor areas.
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Further specifications are outlined in the Mercedes-Benz body repair manual, which addresses vehicles with “short range radars.” These radars, integral to systems like blind spot monitoring, rear collision prevention, and forward collision warning, also impose restrictions on bumper work. The manual stresses that “when performing filling and painting work on the bumpers, it is important to make sure that the maximum coat thickness is not exceeded at the short range radar sensors.” Exceeding this thickness can cause malfunctions, as the sensors might interpret the extra paint as an obstruction. Mercedes-Benz sets a strict limit of “two coats of paint” in the sensor areas.
These short-range radar sensors are deployed in both front and rear bumpers, expanding the areas requiring careful attention during repairs. A Mercedes-Benz document illustrates the potential placement of up to four sensors across a bumper cover. This extensive sensor coverage significantly limits the permissible repair zones on Mercedes-Benz bumpers equipped with ADAS.
Consequences of Ignoring Paint Thickness Limits
Mercedes-Benz clearly warns about the consequences of disregarding these paint thickness limitations. “If the short range radar does not function correctly after painting, either the paint must be removed or the bumper must be replaced.” This decisive statement underscores the importance of adhering to the specified paint thickness to guarantee ADAS functionality. Repairing a Mercedes-Benz bumper with ADAS therefore necessitates a meticulous approach to avoid compromising these vital safety systems.
For more detailed information, technicians should always consult the official Mercedes-Benz OEM repair procedures and documentation. Understanding and following these guidelines is paramount for ensuring safe and effective Mercedes-Benz bumper repairs on vehicles equipped with ADAS.
