05-08-51-001F

File in Section:
Service Bulletin
08 - Body and Accessories
Bulletin No.:
05-08-51-001F
Date:
October, 2013
INFORMATION
Subject:
Information on Paint Stain Under Protective Shipping Film
Models:
2014 and Prior GM Cars and Trucks
This bulletin has been revised to add the 2014 model year and update the Labor Operation to
the Global Labor Code (GLC). Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 05-08-51-001E.
Dealers may notice what they perceive to be paint
staining when the protective shipping film is removed
from these vehicles. This “stain” has the appearance of
patches of “milkiness” in the paint. This affects metallic
paints and is particularly noticeable on silver-colored
vehicles.
This “stain” condition is caused by condensation, which
tends to form under the shipping film while the vehicle
is in transit to the dealer. It will disappear after the
vehicle is exposed to direct sunlight. Application of heat
from heat lamps or similar devices will accelerate this
process as well.
The reason for the recent increase of such incidents is
because of styling revisions to the vehicle, which have
resulted in air pockets under the film.
Important: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO POLISH OR
RE-SPRAY THE VEHICLE FOR THIS CONDITION.
The preferred process for correcting this condition is
exposure to direct sunlight. Park the vehicle with the
affected area exposed to the direct sunlight. The “stain”
will generally disappear within 2-3 hours. In more
severe cases, the vehicle may need to be left in an area
exposed to direct sunlight for up to three days.
If a rapid correction is desired, or weather conditions
are unsuitable for exposure to sunlight, application of a
heat gun is acceptable. Follow the steps below if using
this method:
1. Ensure that the plastic components, such as
grilles, badges, wiring harness, etc., under the
affected panel are protected from the heat
application by masking or by placing a cardboard
sheet between the area of heat application and the
components being protected.
2. Wipe the area with isopropyl alcohol.
3. Place the heat gun approximately 76-101 mm
(3-4 in) away from the area.
Important: Ensure that the panel temperature does
not exceed 130°C (266°F) at any time.
4. Heat the stained area to between 93°C and 104°C
(200°F and 220°F). While heating the panel, use a
non-contact or infrared thermometer to check the
surface temperature.
5. After the stain is removed, let the panel air cool to
avoid warping.
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:
Labor
Operation
Description
Labor
Time
1480128*
Paint Stain Removal
0.5 hr
*This is a unique labor operation for bulletin use only. It will
not be published in the Labor Time Guide.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these
technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper
service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a
job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your
vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the
information.
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