GMW14797 - Painted Plastic Parts Performance Requirements

Template For ENG STDS
WORLDWIDE
ENGINEERING General Specification GMW14797
STANDARDS
Painted Plastic Parts Performance Requirements
1 Introduction
Note: Nothing in this standard supercedes applicable laws and regulations.
Note: In the event of conflict between the English and domestic language, the English language shall take
precedence.
1.1 Purpose/Material Description. This standard covers organic surface coatings on plastic parts and
components used for automotive exterior and interior applications on motor vehicles, for painted components
within the engine compartment, and for exterior lighting hardcoat and anticondensation coating.
1.2 Symbols. Not applicable.
1.3 Applicability. This specification details the performance requirements for applied paints on plastic parts
used for either exterior, interior, exterior lighting, or engine compartment applications on motor vehicles. This
includes the laboratory test requirements for GM Approved Paint on Parts (APOPS), Validation Testing
Complete (VTC), Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) approval, and processing conditions, for exterior
and interior plastic painted automobile components.
1.3.1 APOPS Approval vs. PPAP Approval. Refer to Figure 1. Prior to producing parts in the production
setting, a GM approved substrate and a GM approved paint is specified by GM on part drawings or otherwise to
use in making the part. APOPS is intended as detailed review of a new combination of GM approved substrate,
GM approved paint, and production paint process for a specific molder/painter. This is accomplished by the GM
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Materials Engineer with the supplier. An APOPS approval is documented with either:
1. Entry into the GM Materials Approved Source List, reference 7.3.
2. Approval document from GM to supplier.
Typically, the molder/painter may re-use the APOPS approval for an additional new part that has the same
substrate/paint/paint process, however, the GM Materials Engineer may request an APOPS submission or
additional testing at their discretion.
For new combinations of substrate/paint/painter, the APOPS data is often used for part (e.g., for exterior parts)
of the VTC or PPAP submission. For exterior applications, the APOPS approval documentation is required prior
to VTC. For interior applications, APOPS approval is required to be completed by the 65% Buy off Ride (BoR)
Design Validation (DV) program milestone (approximately 20 weeks post Integration Vehicle Engineering
Release (IVER)) and must be submitted with Validation Documentation Complete (VDC)/PPAP data Production
Validation (PV). In all other cases, the APOPS approval documentation is required with the PPAP package.
Reference PPAP Checklist, Appendix A, Table A12.
For Interior Processes/Combinations, part suppliers must complete and submit the Design for Manufacture
(DFM) documentation and review chosen paint/substrate/painter/process details with Validation and Materials
engineers in the Product Development Team (PDT) at Structure Vehicle Engineering Release/Integration
Vehicle Build Release (SVER/IVBR). If an APOPS with the specific paint, process (e.g., infrared (IR) cure vs.
conventional cure), pre-treat (e.g., flame vs. adhesion promoter), substrate by supplier and brand and painter
has never been documented, then testing per Table A3 for an APOPS approval must be completed in all
available colors on representative surrogate parts or grained plaques as agreed with GM Materials and
Validation engineers in the PDT. The APOPS package per Table A13 must be submitted to the Materials
engineer to enable a completed approval by the 65% BoR program milestone. Visual evaluation of heat and
humidity age testing shall be completed a minimum one week after test to account for migratory additives. Part
suppliers must also repeat testing per Table A3 on grained production parts in the production home line process
in all production colors as per the Validation Cross Reference Index (VCRI)/ Analysis/Development/Validation
Plan and Report (ADVP&R) (PV) and submit to Validation Engineer at VDC/PPAP.
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GM WORLDWIDE ENGINEERING STANDARDS Template For ENG STDS GMW14797
1.3.2 Raw Material Approvals. This specification applies only to substrate and paint related materials that have
been qualified and approved to the appropriate GM specifications.
1.3.2.1 Substrates. The substrate must be approved to the appropriate GM material specification. For previously
unpainted substrates, substrate paintability may be demonstrated per GMW16172 (plaques or parts), or via
APOPS testing to the appropriate table:
• Appendix A, Table A1 for exterior applications (including weathering of parts per Appendix A, Table A1).
• Appendix A, Table A2 for engine compartment applications.
• Appendix A, Table A3 for interior trim applications (including paint over chrome).
This plaque testing applies only to the demonstration of the ability of the substrate resin to be painted not the
qualification of production parts for paint performance requirements.
1.3.2.2 Paints. Paints shall be approved to the appropriate GM specification. For exterior topcoat applications,
GMW3005 requirements must be met for approval to the appropriate, e.g., 998XXXX paint specification.
GMW17434 must be met for all new paint colors when applicable, as specified. For interior paints, the
requirements of the applicable GMWXXXXX paint specification must be met.
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1.3.2.2.1 Paints Without GM Approval. In situations or regions where the paint approval process is new,
GMW14797 requirements can be followed for APOPS testing on the part, and then the approval for the paint
must be completed. The GM engineer shall work with the paint supplier to fulfill the requirements of GMW3005
for exterior topcoats, GMW17105 for primers for plastics, and the applicable GMWXXXXX for interior paints. The
paint would then be approved by GM Engineering and listed in the GM Materials Approved Source List under
the appropriate GM 998XXXX or GMWXXXXX specification. Additionally, in the APOPS approval for the part, it
must be noted that the GM paint approval is in progress, and estimated date of completion must be included.
2 References
Note: Only the latest approved standards are applicable unless otherwise specified.
2.1 External Standards/Specifications.
ASTM D3763 ISO 2808 SAE J1976
IATF 16949 ISO/IEC 17025 SAE J2527
2.2 GM Standards/Specifications.
9984808 GMW3005 GMW14729 GMW17138
9984810 GMW3059 GMW14829 GMW17206
9984815 GMW14124 GMW15520 GMW17405
9984818 GMW14270 GMW15891 GMW17407
9984824 GMW14333 GMW15919 GMW17434
9984836 GMW14444 GMW16133 GMW17835
9984861 GMW14445 GMW16172 GMW17889
9984862 GMW14698 GMW16508 GMW17977
9984901 GMW14700 GMW16745
9984904 GMW14701 GMW16746
9984905 GMW14704 GMW17105
2.3 Additional References.
• Datapaq systems available at; https://www.flukeprocessinstruments.com/en-us/products/thermal-profiling-
systems/datapaq-oven-tracker-systems
• GM 1927 16b Painted Plastic Parts Process Worksheet available via GM SupplyPower portal;
https://gmsupplypower.covisint.com/web/portal/home
• GM Approved Paint on Parts (APOPS) forms available via GM SupplyPower portal;
• GM Materials Approved Source List available via GM SupplyPower portal;

• Mitutoyo products available at; https://ecatalog.mitutoyo.com/Thickness-Gages-Series-7-Flat-Anvil-Type-

Dial-Type-C1726.aspx
3 Test Preparation and Evaluation

3.1 Resources.
3.1.1 Facilities.
3.1.1.1 Calibration. The test facilities and equipment shall be in good working order and shall have a valid
calibration label.
3.1.1.2 Alternatives. Alternative test facilities and equipment may also be used. However, all measuring
variables as specified in this standard shall be determined correctly with respect to their physical definition.
3.1.1.3 For APOPS Testing. All APOPS testing shall be performed in an accredited laboratory. Laboratory
accreditations to ISO/IEC 17025 are acceptable.
3.1.1.4 For PPAP and VTC Testing. Tests performed outside of GM are to use a lab from an organization that
is either third party registered to IATF 16949 or has laboratory accreditations to ISO/IEC 17025.
3.1.1.5 All testing is the responsibility of the GM supplier who applies paint to the parts in question.
3.1.2 Equipment. Not applicable.
3.1.3 Test Vehicle/Test Piece. Not applicable.
3.1.4 Test Time. Refer to applicable test methods.
3.1.5 Test Required Information. Not applicable.
3.1.6 Personnel/Skills. Refer to applicable test methods.
3.2 Preparation.
3.2.1 Bake. All bakes must comply with GM Paint approved bake charts for each specific product. GM Paint
approved bake charts are those that have an approval signature of the responsible engineer at the bottom.
These bake charts may be obtained from the paint suppliers.
3.2.1.1 For Exterior Grade Parts. All Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) substrates must be processed using any
of the following three options:
• Option 1: High-bake adhesion promoter + topcoat systems. The adhesion promoter (e.g., 9984808,
9984810, 9984818) is applied wet on wet and co-baked with an approved topcoat high bake system (e.g.,
9984836, 9984861, 9984862) in accordance with the GM Paint approved bake chart.
• Option 2: Low-bake adhesion promoter + topcoat systems. The adhesion promoter (e.g., 9984905) is
applied wet on wet and co-baked with an approved topcoat low bake system (e.g., 9984901, 9984904) in
accordance with the GM Paint approved bake chart.
• Option 3: Flame treated + topcoat systems, low bake or flame treated + primer + topcoat systems, low
bake. Flame treated (GMW16133) and bake with an approved topcoat (e.g., 9984836, 9984861, 9984862,
9984901, 9984904) or with an approved primer (e.g., 9984815, 9984824) plus topcoat (e.g., 9984836,
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9984861, 9984862, 9984901, 9984904).

Deviations to any of the preceding must be agreed upon by GM Engineering.
3.2.1.2 Interior paint bake charts are stored in the GM Materials Approved Source List or held by the regional
(GM Korea, GM China) Materials Engineer responsible for interior paint raw material approval.
3.2.1.3 Exterior Lighting: Ultraviolet (UV) Cure hardcoats for lenses must follow coating supplier recommended
cure conditions and document cure wattage in submission package.
3.2.2 Additional Requirements for Exterior.
3.2.2.1 Reprocessing. Defined as running a previously finished part through the Original Equipment
Manufacturer (OEM) process. The reprocessing must agree with the Material Data Sheet and recommendation
from the Paint Material Supplier. The following must be followed at a minimum for all part reprocesses.
3.2.2.1.1 All reprocessed parts must meet all the requirements stated in this specification and all other
specifications and requirements listed on the engineering drawing.
3.2.2.1.2 Sanding to substrate is not allowed for any substrates except for a sheet molding compound (SMC)
and Carbon Fiber. Sanding is allowed on the topcoat system to remove surface imperfections or defects.
Documentation of sanding process is required.

3.2.2.1.3 Clearcoat over Clearcoat and Adhesion Promoter over Adhesion Promoter is not permitted. Clearcoat
may be applied over clearcoat only on components made with carbon fiber exposed weave.
3.2.2.1.4 Topcoats and color keyed or color specific primers are to be repaired with the same OEM or two-tone
color only, specified by the GM color code number, for example WA6502 (i.e., white over white, red over red,
etc.)
3.2.2.1.5 The maximum number of reprocess applications is two for primer and two for topcoat as given in
Table 1.
Table 1: Reprocessing Requirements

Maximum Total Film
Number of OEM Maximum Reprocess Maximum Number
Paint Layer Build (of Given Paint
Applications Applications of Bakes
Layer)
Primer 1 2 3 100 µm (4 mil)
Topcoat 1 2 3 225 µm (9 mil)
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Total 2 4 6 325 µm (13 mil)
Note: µm = micrometer, mil = thousandth of an inch.
3.2.2.1.6 A part may see a total of six (6) heat cycles in paint and a total of seven (7) heat cycles including post-
cure.
3.2.2.1.7 All film builds must meet the minimum requirements specified on the engineering drawing and the
maximum requirements given in Table 2 unless otherwise specified.
Table 2: Maximum Film Builds

Layer Maximum Film Build
Primer 100 µm (4 mil)
Topcoat 225 µm (9 mil)
3.2.2.2 Spot repair is not a GM approved process for painted parts (except for SMC and Carbon Fiber
components).
3.2.2.2.1 Unless otherwise agreed, SMC must be repaired to meet the requirements in GMW17835. The repair
process for Carbon Fiber components needs to be reviewed and approved by GM Materials Engineering.
3.2.3 For Interior Reprocessing. Defined as running a previously finished part through the OEM process. The
reprocessing must agree with the Material Data Sheet and recommendation from the paint material supplier.
The following must be followed at a minimum for all part reprocesses:
3.2.3.1 The maximum number of reprocess applications is one for primer and one for topcoat.
3.2.3.2 All reprocessed parts must meet all the requirements stated in this specification and all other
specifications and requirements listed on the engineering drawing.
3.2.3.3 Sanding to substrate is not allowed. Sanding is allowed on the topcoat system to remove surface
imperfections or defects. Documentation of sanding process is required.
3.2.4 Exterior Lighting: Reprocess of lenses is not permitted.
3.2.5 For Exterior Components with Paint Over Chrome. Components that are chrome plated and
subsequently painted must meet the requirements of GMW17206.
3.2.6 For Interior Components with Paint Over Chrome. Components that are chrome plated and
subsequently painted must be painted with a topcoat that is approved to GMW17889. Paint over chrome parts
require Appendix A, Table A3 testing for APOPS and VDC/PPAP. A paint over chrome APOPS approval may
be re-used for an additional new part that has the same substrate/chrome plate color/chrome plate
process/paint/paint process, however, the GM Materials Engineer may request an APOPS submission or
additional testing at their discretion. A change of chrome color or texture requires a new APOPS.

3.2.7 Exterior Processing Requirements. Supplier to meet paint processing requirements per GMW17407. If
there are any GMW17407 deviation forms for the paint process, forms must be included with the APOPS
submission. Specification requirements and forms can be obtained through GM Supplier Quality Engineering.
GM 1927 16b Painted Plastic Parts Process Worksheet can be obtained through GM SupplyPower.
3.2.8 Interior Processing Requirements. Supplier to meet paint processing requirements per GMW17977.
Supplier must have equipment to mix at the nozzle for 2K system paints. Hot potting is not allowed. If there are
any GMW17977 deviation forms for the paint process, forms must be included with the APOPS and VDC/PPAP
submissions. Specification requirements and forms can be obtained through GM Supplier Quality Engineering.
GM 1927 16b Painted Plastic Parts Process Worksheet can be obtained through GM SupplyPower.
3.2.9 Part Mapping for Film Build (Interior and Exterior Applications). Prior to APOPS and following
successful painted part audit with GM Supplier Quality, for each new painted part geometry, a detailed part
mapping shall be completed. Part mapping will include paint thickness measurements of all significant locations
over the entire surface of the painted part. The part mapping and paint thickness measurements shall be
reviewed with Materials Engineering. Upon review, a minimum of four p-points shall be selected. For small parts
that are < 10 cm × 10 cm, less than four p-points may be acceptable upon review with Materials Engineering.
Ensure that paint thickness is measured in areas of concern, including edges with a sharp radius, recessed
areas of the part, and areas on the part which would interface with other components.
3.3 Conditions.
3.3.1 Environmental Conditions. Not applicable.
3.3.2 Test Conditions. Deviations from the requirements of this standard shall have been agreed upon. Such
requirements shall be specified on component drawings, test certificates, reports, etc.
• Tests shall be conducted using the latest issue of the test procedures indicated.
• Unless otherwise specified, painted samples shall be subjected to the testing after a minimum aging period
of 72 h following the baking or drying cycle. A shorter aging period may be used, provided it is recognized
that this represents a more severe condition of test and that results obtained at different aging times under
72 h are not a good basis for comparing the relative performance characteristics of paint finishes.
3.4 Instructions. Figure 1 depicts the APOPS approval process. Parts furnished for APOPS approval shall meet
the test requirements as shown in the appropriate table for the component application.
3.4.1 Component Testing/APOPS - for Painted Exterior, Painted Interior, Painted Engine Compartment
Components, and Coated Lighting Components. Component testing is to be performed for the production
part per Appendix A, Table A1 for exterior, Appendix A, Table A2 for engine compartment components,
Appendix A, Table A3 for interior trim components (including paint over chrome) and Appendix A, Table A4 and
A5 for lighting components. This testing is required for APOPS approval. Each molder/painter must have APOPS
approval for each combination of substrate/paint/paint process. Once the molder/painter has APOPS approval
for a given combination of substrate/paint/paint process, this approval may also be used for other components
that use the same combination of substrate/paint/paint process. If any changes are made in the substrate, paint,
or paint process, APOPS testing on components must be repeated and reviewed with the appropriate GM
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Engineer. Additionally, VTC test requirements and PPAP test requirements must be completed for each unique
part.
Note: These requirements as well as testing of new colors for annual color changes with existing approved
APOPS are reviewed by the GM Supplier Quality Engineer not the GM Materials Engineer.
3.4.1.1 All specimens for testing must be obtained from parts that have been molded, painted and processed
using the same equipment, tools, materials, processing conditions and manufacturing locations that will be used
to manufacture production parts for vehicle assembly. If production part has a grained surface, then parts tested
for APOPS must also be grained. If regrind is allowed, all specimens for testing must be obtained from production
parts that are made from the maximum allowable regrind as stated on the drawing. For interior, surrogate grained
parts representative of production parts may be used for APOPS testing with agreement of GM Materials and
Validation engineers. In the case of a new grain, plaques may be used for APOPS. The GM Materials Engineer
will provide appropriate direction.
3.4.1.2 Each test must be completed on a minimum of three samples, each obtained from separate parts (except
fascia systems, SMC body panels, and Carbon Fiber components, see 3.4.1.3). For interior, the intent is that the
entire painted part meets the requirements of Appendix A, Table A3 including unique features in a larger integral
part (e.g., HVAC vanes in an instrument panel (IP) topper). Consult materials engineer for areas that do not
meet minimum size and shape requirements for adhesion testing.

3.4.1.3 For fascia systems, SMC body panels, and carbon fiber components, triplicate samples need not be
obtained from three separate parts due to the size and cost of the parts. In this case, three samples may be
taken from different locations on the same part. See Figure 2 for example of testing locations. Since parts vary
in design, see responsible GM Materials Engineer if assistance is needed in choosing the locations.
3.4.1.4 For Exterior, testing shall be performed in two colors: White and Light Metallic for original non-repaired
parts. If the color palette contains a Tricoat (such as Bright White Diamond), that color must be tested in addition
to the two standard colors. If the two standard colors are not contained in the color palette, the GM Materials
Engineer may approve substitutions.
3.4.1.4.1 Testing to Appendix A, Table A1 must also be performed on a reprocessed part in White only. For
General Motors North America (GMNA), test on a part that has seen two primer reprocesses and two topcoat
reprocesses. (Example: primer-bake, topcoat-bake, primer-bake, topcoat-bake, primer-bake, topcoat-bake; six
paint layers). If white is not contained in the color palette, use the color with the highest film build.
3.4.1.5 For Interior, APOPS testing shall be performed in each available production color for the application.
Testing for VDC/PPAP, shall be in all program colors per the VCRI/ADVP&R.
3.4.1.6 All bakes are to be those of the production system and must fall within the GM Paint approved bake
charts for each layer.
3.4.1.7 All coating thicknesses must be in accordance to material requirements as specified on the part drawing
notes or in the math file. All coating thicknesses must be measured and reported. For Interior, film thickness
testing must be conducted first. If results do not meet specified limits in Table A3 Note 8, do not proceed with
further testing. New parts must be painted that meet film thickness requirements.
3.4.1.8 Exterior parts which are source primed and subsequently top coated at assembly plants, shall be capable
of accepting the topcoat paint system and meeting the requirements specified with both prime only and with both
topcoat and prime. See responsible GM Materials Engineer to confirm test requirements for APOPS on primed
parts and to determine the number of parts to be top coated and to coordinate the top coating of the parts in the
assembly plant.
3.4.1.9 When this testing is completed, the tested specimens cut from the parts and test report will be reviewed
by the responsible GM Materials Engineer and entered into the APOPS database.
Note: Full APOPS approval may be given at this time depending on test results.
3.5 Data. Not applicable.
3.6 Safety.
This Engineering Standard may involve safety requirements for hazardous materials, the method of operations
and equipment. This standard does not propose to address all the safety issues associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to ensure compliance with all appropriate safety and health practices.
This would include any specific training that may be required. The safety and health standards include site
specific rules and procedures, company rules and procedures, and Government Standards. Contact shall be
made with the appropriate site Safety and Health personnel for further direction and guidance in these matters.
3.6.1 Suitable precautions should be taken to ensure that applicable safe limits are not exceeded when
conducting test procedures, processes and/or handling the materials required by this specification.
3.7 Documentation. Samples of components or material released to this standard shall be tested for conformity
with the requirements of this standard and approved by the responsible GM Department prior to the start of
delivery of production level components or materials.
Any change to the component or material, e.g., design, function, properties, manufacturing process and/or
location of manufacture requires a new release of the product. It is the sole responsibility of the supplier to
provide the customer, unsolicited, with documentation of any change or modification to the product/process, and
to apply for a new release.
If not otherwise agreed to, the entire verification test shall be repeated and documented by the supplier prior to
start of delivery of the modified or changed product. In some cases, a shorter test can be agreed to between the
responsible GM department and the supplier.
3.7.1 Changes in Processing. After the initial APOPS has been established, any change in processing
parameters as recorded on Appendix A, Table A6 or A7, requires evaluation with the responsible GM Materials
Engineer. It is the sole responsibility of the supplier to provide the customer, unsolicited, with documentation of
any change or modification to the product/process, and to apply for a new release and/or APOPS approval.
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3.7.2 Test Results. Test reports shall be written per the Requirements for Test Report in ISO/IEC 17025.
Additionally, a test report that contains all of the requirements listed in 3.7.2.1 thru 3.7.2.17 shall be submitted
to the GM Materials Engineer (reference Appendix A, Table A13).
Note: Electronic versions of APOPS forms can be found through GM SupplyPower.
3.7.2.1 Appendix A, Table A11A, A11B or A12 APOPS Request Form(s).
3.7.2.2 A copy of the Registration or Scope of Accreditation for each test facility that provided data.
3.7.2.3 Appendix A, Table A6 or A7, completed and signed by paint facility management. Enlarge as required or
download form from GM SupplyPower.
3.7.2.4 Appendix A, Table A8, A9 or A10, completed (Appendix A, Table A8 for Exterior, Appendix A, Table A9
for Interior or Appendix A, Table A10 for Underhood). Enlarge as required or download form from GM
SupplyPower. A subset of the tests on this form may be used to report VTC and/or PPAP data.
3.7.2.5 Copy of material requirements as listed in part drawing notes from the latest print or math file.
3.7.2.6 Signed documentation of the percent regrind on parts tested.
3.7.2.7 Datapaq systems or equivalent indicating part surface temperature versus time for all paint bakes
including post-cure.
3.7.2.8 Schematic indicating the location of part where Film Build was taken. This includes reprocessed parts.
3.7.2.9 Paint film thickness per ISO 2808.
3.7.2.9.1 Paint Film Thickness for Exterior Components. Measure a minimum of four areas on each part and
report each measurement, in accordance with p-points as agreed to with GM Materials Engineering (see 3.2.9).
Report the thickness of each paint layer (i.e., primer, basecoat, clearcoat). More than four areas may be required
due to part design.
3.7.2.9.2 Paint Film Thickness for Interior Components. Measure a minimum of three areas on each part and
report each measurement, in accordance with p-points as agreed to with GM Materials Engineering (see 3.2.9).
Report the thickness of each paint layer (i.e., primer, basecoat, clearcoat). More than three areas may be
required due to part design. See Appendix A, Table A3, Note 8 for details on how to measure film build.
3.7.2.9.3 Paint Film Thickness for Underhood Components. A minimum of three parts in a minimum of three
locations per part, dependent upon part size, shall be measured (if not using a shim). Individual measurement
locations will be indicated with a schematic as well as individual readings and the average of the measurements
shall be reported. See Appendix A, Table A2, Note 3 for details on how to measure film build.
3.7.2.10 GMW17434 film build chart for each coating (if applicable, in accordance with part drawing notes or
math file). Not applicable for Interior coatings.
3.7.2.11 A GM approved and signed bake chart for each coating.
3.7.2.12 Schematic indicating the location on the part from which the test plaques were obtained. See Figure 2
for example of a fascia system/schematic. See Figure 3 for example of exterior surface crosshatch.
3.7.2.13 White parts reprocess twice for reprocess validation. Not applicable for interior coatings.
3.7.2.14 Signed documentation of the reprocess procedure used by the painted part supplier.
3.7.2.15 Signed documentation of the sanding process procedure used by the painted part supplier.
3.7.2.16 Tested parts, adhesion tapes, and cure cloths for review by the responsible GM Materials Engineer
(see 3.3). Additionally, for interior applications, film build mylars are also required.
3.7.2.17 All tested samples shall be retained by the supplier for review by the appropriate GM Materials Engineer
at least until APOPS approval is obtained.
4 Requirements and Procedure

4.1 Component Testing/APOPS. See 3.4.1. Perform testing on components as indicated in the appropriate
table.
4.2 PPAP. Reference PPAP Checklist, Appendix A, Table A14.
4.2.1 Exterior Components. A printout of the APOPS approval will be required for VTC. If a new part has the
same substrate, paint, paint process, molder and painter as a previous part that is already APOPS approved
(i.e., only geometry is unique), then only VTC testing per Appendix A, Table A1 is required, and a printout of the
previous part’s APOPS approval will be required for VTC.
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4.2.2 Interior Components. Perform testing on all program colors as indicated in Appendix A, Table A3 for
components unless otherwise noted by the GM Materials Engineer (additional testing may be required). A
printout of the APOPS approval will be required with the PPAP package. If a new part has all the same colors,
substrate, paint, paint process, molder and painter as a previous part that is already APOPS approved (i.e., only
geometry is unique), see GM Materials Engineer for direction as to whether Appendix A, Table A3 or Quality
Control testing per GMW17977 is required for PPAP with a printout of the previous part’s APOPS approval. All
new colors on an existing geometry not previously APOPS reviewed require Appendix A, Table A3.
Note: Testing for Appendix A, Table A3 or Quality Control testing per GMW17977 for new colors and new
geometries with existing approved APOPS are reviewed by the GM Supplier Quality Engineer not the GM
Materials Engineer.
4.2.3 Engine Compartment Components. Perform testing on all program colors as indicated in Appendix A,
Table A2, unless otherwise noted by the GM Materials Engineer (additional testing may be required). A printout
of the APOPS approval will be required with the PPAP package.
4.3 Quality Control Testing. Reference GMW17407 for quality control requirements for painted exterior
applications. Reference GMW17977 for quality control requirements for painted interior applications.
4.4 All materials supplied to this standard must comply with GMW3059, Restricted and Reportable Substances.
For raw materials, non-dimensional materials (e.g., fluids, greases) and/or bulk materials that require approval
into the GM Materials Approved Source List (GMMASL), an International Material Data System (IMDS)
submission must be made by the material supplier as a material Material Data Sheet (mMDS). After the mMDS
is approved by the GM IMDS team, the materials supplier is to provide a “Header only report” to the responsible
GM Materials Engineer. Further guidance can be found in the GM-specific instructions on the IMDS website.
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Figure 1: Overall APOPS Process
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Figure 2: Fascia System Example – Testing Locations
Figure 3: Initial Adhesion Entire Surface Crosshatch (Exterior)
5 Provisions for Shipping

5.1 Source Shipment Responsibility. It will be the responsibility of the supplier to ensure that the material is
not exposed to temperatures during shipment which would cause the material to fail to meet any of the
requirements of this specification.
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6 Notes
6.1 Glossary.
2K Paint Systems: Two-component paints are paints in which a chemical reaction results in paint hardening.
Approved Paint on Parts (APOPS): New combination of substrate/paint/paint process for a specific
molder/painter (reference 1.3). Required on white, white repair, and light metallic color samples for exterior and
all available program colors for interior. Reference 3.4.1.4.
CIELAB (L*a*b* color space): Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage (International Commission on
Illumination) representation of colors using the coordinates in a uniform color space consisting of lightness
variable L* and chromaticity indices a* and b*.
P-Point(s): P and R Points are control points used to define wheel openings for Gap and Offset as well as
determining Vehicle Stance when combined with Chassis Groundlines.
PGC: Perceived gloss of 2 (Low Gloss) when measured at 60 degrees gloss on flat, ungrained samples.
Reprocessing: Running a previously finished part through the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) process.
Validation Testing Complete (VTC): Reference each part specific VCRI for paint colors required for testing.
Testing must be performed prior to VTC on every new part geometry regardless of APOPS status.
6.2 Acronyms, Abbreviations, and Symbols.
µm micrometer(s)
65% BoR 65% Buy off Ride
ADVP&R Analysis/Development/Validation Plan and Report
APOPS Approved Paint on Parts
CIELAB Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage
DFM Design for Manufacture
DV Design Validation
GHS Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals
GMMASL GM Material Approved Source List
GMNA General Motors North America
GSSLT Global Subsystem Leadership Team
IMDS International Material Data System
IP Instrument Panel
IR Infrared
IVER Integration Vehicle Engineering Release
MAI Multi-axial Impact
mil Thousandth of an inch
mMDS material Material Data Sheet
OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer
PDT Product Development Team
PGC Perceived Gloss of 2 (Low Gloss)
PPAP Production Part Approval Process
PQMS Performance Quality Management System
PV Production Validation
SDS Safety Data Sheet
SMC Sheet Molding Compound
SVER/IVBR Structure Vehicle Engineering Release/Integration Vehicle Build Release
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TPO Thermoplastic Polyolefin

UV Ultraviolet
VCRI Validation Cross Reference Index

VDC Validation Documentation Complete

VTC Validation Testing Complete
7 Additional Paragraphs
7.1 Manufacturing Process. Not applicable.
7.2 Rules and Regulations.
7.2.1 Legal Regulations. All materials must satisfy applicable laws, rules, regulations and recommendations.
7.2.2 Language. In the event of conflict between the English and domestic language, the English language shall
take precedence.
7.2.3 Inspection and Rejection. Samples of components or materials released to a GM material specification
shall be tested for conformity with the requirements of this material specification and approved by the responsible
Engineering department prior to commencement of delivery of bulk supplies.
A new approval must be received for any changes, e.g., properties, manufacturing process, location of
manufacture, etc. If not otherwise agreed, all testing and documentation normally required for initial release must
be completed.
It is the responsibility of the supplier to inform the customer in a timely manner, without solicitation, and to include
documentation of all modifications of materials and/or processes and to apply for a new release.
7.2.4 Safety Data Sheets. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemicals supplied to GM for internal production
processes, must be submitted to GM Manufacturing in compliance with the Globally Harmonized System of
Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) requirements or other country-specific SDS requirements.
7.3 Approved Sources.
Materials supplied to this specification must be approved by GM Materials Engineering.
A list of approved materials can be found in the GM Materials Approved Source List (GMMASL). To access this
list, reference GMW14270 for latest location. This GM material file is provided to third parties to reduce redundant
testing of materials. If an approved material is used, the part supplier can use the GM material file reference for
Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) material approval. If the decision is made to use a not yet approved
material, contact GM Materials – Finishes and Coatings Global Subsystem Leadership Team (GSSLT) for details
on the approval process. The material approval process must be completed prior to PPAP start date of the part
supplied to GM.
7.4 Certificate of Analysis. The supplier shall be responsible for submitting a Certificate of Analysis with each
batch of material arriving at a plant. This document shall be prepared and provide data in accordance with the
requirements detailed in GMW17405.
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7.5 Parts for Aftersales Service. Parts for aftersales service shall be primed. Completely coated Parts for
aftersales service shall fulfill the requirements to GMW14797.
8 Coding System
8.1 This standard shall be referenced in other documents, drawings, etc., as follows:
GMW14797 or
GMW14797-GD, - M2 (reference Appendix A, Table A1)

9 Release and Revisions

This standard was originated in November 2005. It was first approved by the Materials Engineering Group in
November 2006. It was first published in April 2007.
Issue Publication Date Description (Organization)
1 APR 2007 Initial publication.
2 OCT 2009 Major changes to entire document. (Global Materials and Corrosion Team)
3 MAR 2012 Added requirements for paint over chrome for exterior components; revisions
to interior and underhood requirements. (Finishes and Coatings Global
Subsystem Leadership Team)
4 AUG 2015 Removed paint over chrome requirements. Revisions to exterior
requirements. Added VTC information. (Materials - Finishes and Coatings
Global Subsystem Leadership Team)
5 MAY 2019 Removed requirements for skinned polyurethane foam. Added exterior
lighting requirements. Revised exterior and interior requirements. (Materials
– Finishes and Coatings GSSLT)
6 MAY 2020 Revised VTC and PPAP requirements for exterior applications. Updated
underhood requirements. (Materials – Finishes and Coatings GSSLT)
7 OCT 2020 Updated interior requirements to define both APOPS and VDC/PPAP
expectations. (Materials – Finishes and Coatings GSSLT)
8 OCT 2021 Updated Table A4. Updated to current template. (Materials – Finishes and
Coatings GSSLT)
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Appendix A
Table A1: APOPS and VTC Requirements for Exterior Painted Parts
Tests Required For:
GM APOPS VTC
Test Class Requirements
Specification White
White Repair
Reference
VCRI for
Light Metallic Required
Colors
APOPS Checklist Items Completed (see Table A13) X

Required Testing for All Parts (All testing to be done in triplicate):
Tape Adhesion GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1.
X X
Crosshatch
Initial Adhesion - Entire GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1 per tape
Surface Crosshatch pull.
(Test one part of each
geometry, any one color only, X
after production spray pattern
is established.
See Figure 3.)
Film Build ISO 2808 Minimum of four readings
Method 6A or (See 3.7.2.9). X X
GMW17138
Adequacy of Cure GMW15891 Maximum rating of 0 for
(Test with Xylene) systems with clearcoat.
X X
Maximum rating of 1 for
monocoats.
240 h Humidity followed by GMW14729/ No Appearance Change
Tape Adhesion GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1. X X
Crosshatch
Chip Resistance GMW14700, Minimum rating of 9.
Method (A or B) X X
and C
Moisture Cold – Cycle A GMW14124 No Appearance Change.
plus 24 h Humidity GMW14729 No Appearance Change.
X
plus Tape Adhesion GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1.
Crosshatch
Water Immersion GMW14704 2 h minimum.
(38 °C ± 2 °C) GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1. X
plus Tape Adhesion Crosshatch
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Tests Required For:

GM APOPS VTC
Specification White
White Repair
Reference
VCRI for
Colors
Required Testing for Specific Applications (All testing to be done in triplicate):

Multiaxial Impact, at 0 °C and ASTM D3763 All ductile failures.
2.2 m/s X X Note 1
(For Fascias Only)
Water Jet GMW16745, Maximum paint removal of
X X
(For Fascias Only) Method B 60 mm2.
Thermal Shock GMW15919 No removal.
X
(For TPO Substrates Only)
Gasoline Resistance-Dip GMW14333, Rating 2. No color change or
(Only if suffix GD is specified Method A paint removal to previous
for part on drawing or math surface or lifting or peeling of X
file, e.g., “GMW14797-GD”) paint film. No Appearance
Change.
Gasoline Resistance- GMW14333, Maximum paint removal of
Immersion - Test to Method B 20% after 15 minutes
15 minutes. immersion. X
Mandrel Bend at 23 °C GMW16746 Minimum rating of 8.
For Flexible Substrates Only Class M1 X X
(< 800 MPa Flexural
Modulus)
Mandrel Bend – Cold GMW16746 Minimum rating of 8
Temperature Class M2
(Only if suffix M2 is specified X X
for part on drawing or math
file, e.g., “GMW14797-M2”)
Mandrel Bend at 23 °C GMW16746 Minimum rating of 8
For TPO Fascias with Semi- Class M3
Flexible Substrates Only X X
((800 to 2000) MPa Flexural
Modulus)
Tweezer Pull Adhesion Test Appendix B Maximum Rating of 1
(For Large Components such
as fascias, rocker moldings or
body side moldings with X X
Sharp Edge Interface to
Vehicle Body, see
Appendix B)
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Tests Required For:

GM APOPS VTC
Specification White
White Repair
Reference
VCRI for
Colors
Testing Required only if paint ability testing per GMW16172 has not been completed for the
substrate OR if paint is not a GM approved paint Note 3 (All testing to be done in triplicate):
Heat Resistance at +70 °C 168 h No Appearance Change
(Not required if GMW16172
X
has been completed for the
substrate)
Heat Resistance GMW14829 Maximum Rating 1
X
plus Tape Adhesion
Heat Resistance GMW14700, Minimum Rating 9
X
plus Chip Resistance Method B
Chemical Resistance (not GMW14701 All materials rated 10 except
required if paint is approved as follows:
to a GM 998XXXX or Rating 8 - Egg Albumin, Acid
GMWXXXXX specification) Rain pH 3 and pH 4, Tap
X
Water, Sulfuric Acid pH 4.
Rating 6 - Sulfuric Acid pH 0
and pH 2.
Rating 4 - Brake Fluid.
Weather Resistance See Note 2 X
Weathering Visual inspection Equal to original untested
plus Appearance and gloss sample. X
measurement
Weathering GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1.
X
plus Tape Adhesion Crosshatch
Weathering GMW14729 No Appearance Change.
plus 96 h Humidity followed GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1. X
by Tape Adhesion Crosshatch
Note 1: Must be done for each fascia geometry (front, rear, up-level, base, etc.) on reprocessed part (painted three times) only in white or
color with highest film build.
Note 2: Weather Resistance - If required, test to one of the following:
• SAE J1976 (A), 12 months exposure in Miami, FL area
• SAE J2527 (A), Extended ultraviolet (UV) Filters, 2500 kJ/m2 exposure to exterior Xenon arc Weatherometer
Note 3: If paint is not approved to a GM 998XXXX or GMWXXXXX specification, see 1.3.2.2.1 for more information and instructions.
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Table A2: APOPS and PPAP Requirements for Engine Compartment Components
Test Class GM Specification Requirements
Tape Adhesion GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1.
Crosshatch
Adequacy of Cure Note 1 GMW15891 Maximum rating of 0 for systems with clearcoat.
Maximum rating of 1 for monocoats.
72 h Humidity followed by GMW14729, No Appearance Change.
Tape Adhesion Option A or B Maximum rating of 1.
GMW14829
Crosshatch
240 h Humidity GMW14729 No Appearance Change.
Gasoline Resistance-Dip GMW14333, Rating 2. No color change or paint removal to
Method A previous surface or lifting or peeling of paint film.
No Appearance Change.
Moisture Cold - Cycle A plus GMW14124 No Appearance Change.
24 h Humidity and, GMW14729 No Appearance Change.
Crosshatch
Film Thickness Note 2 ISO 2808, Method 6A, Per engineering drawing/math file.
minimum of three
measurements per
part, report average as
well as individual
readings.
Heat Resistance, 168 h at 120 °C E ≤ 3.0 Note 3, no change in appearance/gloss/color
after visual inspection.
plus 72 h Humidity, GMW14729 No Appearance Change.
Crosshatch
Note 1: Contact responsible GM Engineer to determine required solvent.
Note 2: Film build samples should be taken from the flattest point farthest from an edge in the main appearance surface area. For grained
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samples, measure one peak and one valley in a single location on a part and record each measurement and average. Repeat three times
per part. Measure one part per color. Report all layers individually.
Note 3: CIELAB color space, 10-degree observer, illuminant D65, specular included, sphere geometry, before and after exposure.

Table A3: APOPS and VDC/PPAP Requirements for Interior Trim Components
Test Test Procedure Note 1 Requirement Note 1 APOPS Note 1 VDC/PPAP Note 1
APOPS Checklist Items Completed (see Table A13) X
Approved APOPS printout from GMMASL X
Cure GMW15891, 92% minimum Rating ≤ 1 for monocoats, X X
denatured ethyl alcohol Rating = 0 for base/clear
No paint film degradation
when viewed at 10x
magnification. Note 2
Adhesion GMW14829, Method A, use ≥ 95% paint retention, X X
1 mm spacing for all film Rating 1. Note 3
thicknesses
Humidity/Adhesion 144 h GMW14729, option A ≥ 95% paint retention, X X
or B, recover 1 h at room Rating 1.
temperature followed by No objectionable defects
GMW14829, Method A, Note 4
1 mm spacing
Oven 168 h oven exposure, ≥ 95% paint retention, X X
Age/Adhesion Note 5 recover 1 h at room Rating 1.
temperature, 24 h No objectionable defects
GMW14729, recover 1 h at Note 4
room temperature followed

by GMW14829, Method A,
1mm spacing
Sunscreen and GMW14445 followed by Rating ≤ 2 and no X X
Insect Repellent GMW14698, 1 mm penetration of the painted
Resistance Test hemispherical tip, 8 N load surface when evaluated
with and without 10x
magnification. Note 6
Reverse Multi- GMW15520, Multi-axial No more than 20% X
axial Impact Instrumented Impact Test reduction in mean impact
Resistance Note 7 paragraph energy and sample break
(ASTM D3763, -30 °C) behavior must not change
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from ductile to brittle.

Film Thickness ISO 2808, Method 4A or 6A, The default values for film X X
minimum of three thickness shall be as per
measurements per part, the appropriate GMW paint
report average as well as material specification. Any
individual readings. Note 8 deviations shall be per the
engineering drawing/math
For Type F: Use only a foil file or paint system
thickness/snap gauge (e.g., approval record in the GM
Mitutoyo 7326S). Material Approved Source
List.
Report location of each
measurement on a part
schematic.
Note 1: Testing shall be done in triplicate on separate parts unless otherwise directed by the PDT. When part size or shape makes the
following testing prohibitive, testing may be done on plaques painted in the production process provided the reviewing program Materials
Engineer grants written permission for such. Film thickness testing must be conducted first. If results do not meet specified limits, do not
proceed with further testing. New parts must be painted that meet film thickness requirements. APOPS requirements are an activity between
the part supplier and Materials Engineering. VDC/PPAP requirements are an activity between the part supplier, Validation and Supplier
Quality. Any deviations from the required test list must be at the direction of the appropriate GM engineer for the activity.
Note 2: Evaluation of the crock cloth is not required. Slight gloss increase of the paint film for low gloss (PGC) surfaces is acceptable.
Examples of degradation of the paint film include wrinkling, perforation or removal.
Note 3: Brittleness of the paint film, as evidenced by chipping or flaking while scribing the test lines, shall be cause for rejection.
Note 4: Examples of objectionable defects include but are not limited to evidence of blistering, water spotting, color change, gloss change,
distortion or exudation.
Note 5: Oven age per the temperature required for the part in the Installation Position table defined in GMW14444. Contact the program
Materials Engineer for temperature confirmation.

Note 6: Examples of unacceptable change (rating > 2) are blisters, perforation, cracking or removal of any kind. In the absence of any of
these negative visual reactions after testing at 8 N, a slight gloss change and slightly visible scribe line (mar) is acceptable and considered
to be a rating ≤ 2. If the paint is stained but has not lost adhesion or lifted from the substrate, place one specimen per color in an oven at
80 °C for 4 h. Compare the baked specimen to an unbaked specimen. The baked should show decreased staining. The reviewing program
Materials Engineer, in conjunction with (as appropriate) the regional (GM Korea, GM China) Materials Engineer responsible for interior paint
raw material approval has the final authority to determine the disposition of a sunscreen result for grained parts.
Note 7: Multi-axial Impact (MAI) is for painted deployable surfaces only or at the program Materials Engineer’s request. Test only materials
capable of ductile break behavior at -30 °C or lower. MAI testing is done on plaques and need not be repeated for each submission of the
same substrate, same paint, same process. Reference of successful data presented in previous APOPS combinations is acceptable. MAI
is for APOPS only and is not required for PPAP submissions. A note must be added in the Remarks section of the APOPS entry in the GM
Materials Approved Source List indicating whether or not impact testing was submitted and reviewed.
Note 8: If Method 4 (foil/mylar) is not used and film build measurements are taken using microscopy (Method 6A), then film build samples
should be taken across the surface of the part (i.e., edge-center-edge). For grained samples, measure one peak and one valley in a single
location on a part and record each measurement and average. The average value and each measurement must meet the film thickness
requirement. Repeat three times per part. Report all layers individually. Microscopy method must not be used for Type F paints without
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review and approval by GM Materials Engineering.

Table A4: UV or Thermal Cure Hardcoat for Polycarbonate Exterior Lamps APOPS and PPAP
Test Test Procedure Requirement
Cure: Solvent GMW15891. Maximum rating of 0 for clear coat.
Rub Method The coating supplier shall indicate the
appropriate solvents and rating
designation.
Tape Adhesion GMW14829, Method A ≥ 95% paint retention, Rating 1. Note 1
High Humidity GMW14729, Method A or B, 96 h, No evidence of blistering, water spotting or
and Adhesion followed by GMW14829 gloss change; ≥ 95% paint retention,
Crosshatch Rating 1.
Film Thickness ISO 2808 Type 6C (recommended) or Specific film build targets and upper/lower
Type 6A. Minimum of five measurements limits established by initial screening by
per part, report average as well as coating supplier
individual readings
Water Immersion GMW14704, 2 h Maximum rating of 1.
(38 °C ± 2 °C) GMW14829
plus Tape Crosshatch
Adhesion
Stone Impact GMW14700, Method B Minimum Rating of 9 per GMW14700
Resistance Note 2 (Maximum impact diameter 2 mm)
Note 1: Brittleness of the paint film, as evidenced by chipping or flaking while scribing the test lines shall be cause for rejection.
Note 2: Chip resistance only required for initial application of substrate/coating/facility. Surrogate data can be used thereafter.
Table A5: Anticondensation Coating APOPS and PPAP

Test Test Procedure Requirement
Cure: Solvent Solvent Rub: GMW15891. Solvent Rub: Maximum rating of 0 for
Rub Method or Test with Isopropyl Alcohol or Naptha. clearcoat.
Dip Method Dip Test: GMW16508 Dip Test: Coating shall not whiten or show
visible blemishes.
Tape Adhesion GMW14829, Method A crosshatch 100% coating retention
Steam GMW16508 No signs of fogging for 10 s to 20 s steam
exposure
High Humidity GMW16508 No change in color, blistering,
and Steam watermarks, etc.
No signs of fogging for 10 s to 20 s steam
exposure.
Film Thickness ISO 2808 Type 6C (recommended) or Specific film build targets and upper/lower
Type 6A. Minimum of five measurements limits established by initial screening by
per part, report average as well as coating supplier
individual readings
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Table A6: Exterior Painted Parts – Paint Processing Data Sheet (Page 1 of 2)
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Table A6: Exterior Painted Parts – Paint Processing Data Sheet (Page 2 of 2)
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Table A7: Interior and Underhood Paint Processing Data Form

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Table A8: GM
GMW14797 APOPS
Table Exterior
A8 - APOPS ExteriorTest DataForm
Test Data Form
COMPANY NAME:
REPORT #
RESULTS - TRIPLICATE SAMPLES PER COLOR

GM WHITE LIGHT METALLIC WHITE REPAIR TRICOAT
Specification COLOR NAME_______ COLOR NAME_______ COLOR NAME_______ COLOR NAME_______
WA#_________ WA#_________ WA#_________ WA#_________
Required Testing for All Parts (All testing to be done in triplicate):
GMW14829
Tape Adhesion Maximum rating of 1.
Crosshatch
systems with clearcoat.
Adequacy of Cure (Test with Xylene) GMW15891
monocoats.
GMW14729/ No Appearance Change
240 h Humidity followed by Tape Adhesion GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1.
Crosshatch
GMW14700
Chip Resistance Minimum rating of 9.
(Method A or B)
GMW14700
Chip Resistance Minimum rating of 9.
(Method C)
Moisture Cold – Cycle A GMW14124 No Appearance Change.
+24 h Humidity GMW14729 No Appearance Change.
GMW14829
+Tape Adhesion Maximum rating of 1.
Crosshatch
Measured Film Builds Minimum of 4 measurements per part. Refer to Section 3.7.2.9. Attach Separate Table with Paint Thickness Measurements
Required Testing for Specific Applications (All testing to be done in triplicate):
Multiaxial Impact, at 0 °C and 2.2 m/s
ASTM D3763 All ductile failures.
(For Fascias Only)
Water Jet Maximum paint removal of 60
GMW16745-B
(For Fascias Only) mm2.
Thermal Shock
GMW15919 No removal.
Rating 2. No color change or
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Gasoline Resistance-Dip (Only if suffix GD paint removal to previous
is specified for part on drawing or math file GMW14333-A surface, or lifting or peeling of
– for example “GMW14797-GD”) paint film. No Appearance
Change.
Gasoline Resistance-Immersion - Test to
Maximum paint removal of 20%
15 minutes. GMW14333-B
after 15 minutes immersion.
Mandrel Bend at 23 °C
GMW16746
For Flexible Substrates Only (< 800 MPa Minimum rating of 8.
Class M1
Flexural Modulus)
Mandrel Bend – Cold Temp
(Only if suffix M2 is specified for part on GMW16746
Minimum rating of 8
drawing or math file – for example, Class M2
“GMW14797-M2”)
Mandrel Bend at 23 °C
For TPO Fasicas with Semi-Flexible GMW16746
Minimum rating of 8
Substrates Only (800 to 2000 MPa Flexural Class M3
Modulus)
Tweezer Pull Adhesion Test (For Large
Components such as fascias, rocker
moldings or body side moldings with Sharp Appendix B Maximum Rating of 1
Edge Interface to Vehicle Body – See
Appendix B)
Testing Required only if paintability testing per GMW16172 has not been completed for the substrate OR if paint is not a GM approved paint (All testing to be done in triplicate):
Heat Resistance at +70 °C (Not required if

GMW16172 has been completed for the 168 h No Appearance Change
substrate)
Heat Resistance
GMW14829 Maximum Rating 1
+ Tape Adhesion
Heat Resistance
GMW14700-B Minimum Rating of GM 9
+ Chip Resistance
All materials rated 10 except
as follows:
Rating 8 - Egg Albumin, Acid
Chemical Resistance (not required if paint
Rain pH 3 and 4, Tap Water,
is approved to a GM 998XXXX or GMW14701
Sulfuric Acid pH 4.
GMWXXXXX specification)
Rating 6 - Sulfuric Acid pH 0
and 2.
Rating 4 - Brake Fluid.
Weather Resistance See Table A1
Visual inspection
Weathering Equal to original untested
and gloss
sample.
+ Appearance measurement
Weathering GMW14829
Maximum rating of 1.
+ Tape Adhesion Crosshatch
Weathering GMW14729 No Appearance Change.
+ 96 h Humidity followed by Tape Adhesion GMW14829 Maximum rating of 1.
Crosshatch
PART NAME: PART NUMBER:
LABORATORY: PHONE:
COMPANY/GM DIV., AND ADDRESS
TESTED BY: DATE:

PRINT NAME & SIGN
E-MAIL ADDRESS:

GM WORLDWIDE ENGINEERING STANDARDS GMW14797
Table A9:
Table A9 GM
- GMAPOPS
APOPS Interior TestData
Interior Test Data Form
Form
RESIN COMPANY NAME: RESIN:
PAINT COMPANY: PAINT:
RESULTS - TRIPLICATE SAMPLES PER COLOR

Paint Color 1: Paint Color 2: Paint Color 3: Paint Color 4:
Substrate Color: Substrate Color: Substrate Color: Substrate Color:
TEST GM SPEC REQUIREMENTS* Colorant Source: Colorant Source: Colorant Source: Colorant Source:
Rating ≤ 1 for monocoats,

GMW15891, 92% Rating = 0 for base/clear
minimum denatured No paint film degradation when
Cure ethyl alcohol viewed at 10 x magnification
GMW14829, Method A, ≥ 95% paint retention,

Adhesion 1mm spacing Rating 1.
144 hr GMW14729,
option A or B, recover
144 hr Humidity 1h at room temperature No objectionable defects
GMW14829 Method A, ≥ 95% paint retention,

+ Adhesion 1mm spacing Rating 1.
168 hr oven aging + 24

168 hr Oven Age hr GMW14729 No objectionable defects
GMW14829 Method A, ≥ 95% paint retention,

+ Adhesion 1mm spacing Rating 1.
GMW14445 followed Rating ≤ 2 and no penetration of

Sunscreen and Insect by and GMW14698, 1 the painted surface when
Repellent Resistance + mm hemispherical tip, 8 evaluated with and without 10 x
Scratching N load magnification
GMW15520, Multi-axial No more than 20% reduction in

Instrumented Impact mean impact energy and sample
Reverse Multi-axial Impact Test paragraph break behavior must not change
Resistance -30C (ASTM D3763, -30 °C) from ductile to brittle.
ISO 2808 Method 4A or Peak

6A, minimum of 3
measurements per part,
report average as well The default values for Valley
as individual readings. film thickness shall be as
per the appropriate Peak
For Type F: Use only a GMW paint material
foil thickness/snap specification. Any
gauge (e.g. Mitutoyo deviations shall be per Valley
7326S). the engineering
drawing/math file or paint
Peak
Report location of each system approval record
measurement on a part in the GM Material
Film Thickness schematic. Approved Source List. Valley
*NOTE: SEE APPLICABLE REQUIREMENT NOTATATION IN "APOPS AND VDC/PPAP REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERIOR TRIM COMPONENTS" TABLE.
PART NAME: PART NUMBER:
LABORATORY: PHONE:
COMPANY AND ADDRESS
TESTED BY: DATE:

PRINT NAME & SIGN
EMAIL ADDRESS: REPORT ID:

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Table A10: GM APOPS Underhood Test Data Form
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Table A11A: Request Form for New APOPS

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Table A11B: Change Request Form for APOPS

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Table A12: Request form for APOPS – Lighting Applications

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Table A13: APOPS Checklist
❑ Table A11A, A11B or A12 – APOPS Request Form(s)

❑ Table A6 or A7 – Paint Processing Data Form(s) completed and signed by paint facility
management
❑ Table A8, A9 or A10 – GM APOPS Test Data Form(s) completed and signed
❑ Copy of completed lab report, if requested by materials engineer
❑ Copy of ISO/IEC 17025 lab certification for each test facility that provided data if testing is not
performed within GM
❑ Copy of the part drawing notes or math data that includes all of the material specifications
❑ Signed documentation stating the percent regrind used for parts tested (if applicable)
❑ Datapaq or oven chart equivalent
❑ Schematic indicating the location of part where film build measurements were taken
❑ Paint film thickness measurements per ISO 2808 - measure minimum of four areas per part
(Exterior) or three areas per part (Interior)
❑ GMW17434 Film Build Chart for each coating (if applicable, in accordance with part drawing notes
or math file) (Exterior)
❑ GM approved and signed cure latitude chart for each coating (if applicable, in accordance with part
drawing notes or math file)
❑ Schematic indicating the location on the part from which the test samples were obtained
❑ White parts – reprocess twice for reprocess validation (Exterior)
❑ Signed documentation of reprocess procedure (Exterior)
❑ Signed documentation of sanding process (Exterior)
❑ Tested parts for review including adhesion tapes, and cure cloths
❑ Mylars/shims (Interior)
❑ Deviation forms (GMW17407 for Exterior, GMW17977 for Interior), if there are any deviations to paint
process.
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Table A14: PPAP Checklist (Does not apply to Exterior Applications)
❑ Printout of APOPS Approval

❑ Test data for Table A2, A3, A4 or A5; as applicable for component
❑ Proof of certification to IATF 16949 or ISO/IEC 17025 if testing is not performed within GM
❑ Copy of the part drawing notes or math data that includes all of the material specifications
❑ Printouts of approvals from GM Materials Approved Source List for all paints and materials used
❑ Paint film thickness measurements per ISO 2808 - measure minimum of three areas per part on
each of three parts for each program color (Interior and Underhood)
❑ GMW17434 Film Build Chart for each coating (if applicable, in accordance with part drawing notes
or math file) (Underhood)
❑ Printout of Trim Transmittal for the production paint system in each paint color at the appropriate gloss
level (for Interior applications)
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Appendix B: Tweezer Pull Test
B1 Purpose
This test method describes the procedure for conducting an adhesion test on the edge of a painted exterior part.
A crosshatch pattern is cut through the film to the substrate, with the aid of a stereo microscope and a pair of
fine point tweezers an attempt is made to lift/remove the paint the paint from the substrate and adhesion is
assessed qualitatively on a 0 to 5 scale.
B2 Applicability
Evaluation of adhesion on the edge of an exterior painted plastic part is required for components that directly
touch the sheet metal of the vehicle body, where the edge of the painted part has an interface to the body similar
to that shown in Figure B1. Often, this condition would apply to rockers and body side moldings.
Figure B1: Sharp Edge Interface of Painted Plastic Part to Vehicle Body
B2.1 Apparatus and Materials:

• Cutting Tool; New sharp single edge razor blade
• Fine Point Tweezers; High precision, very sharp, fine tip or better.
• Stereo microscope
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B2.2 Procedure:
a. Cut a cross-hatched square lattice with a 2 mm spacing into the coating. The lattice should include at least
one square and only cover the area of interest. Assure the incisions cut through the coating into the substrate
in one steady motion using just enough pressure on the cutting tool to have the cutting edge reach the
substrate.
b. With the stereo microscope inspect the incisions to establish that the coating has been cut through, the cut
has not excessively penetrated the substrate and for detachment of the coating.
c. While viewing under the microscope and using the fine tip tweezers, attempt to lift/peel the coating.
d. Assess the removal of coating from the substrate. The coating adhesion is given a rating of:
“0” if the coating cannot be peeled.
“1” if the coating peels in small fragments covering an area < 10% of the test area.
“2” if the coating peels in large fragments covering 10% to 25% of the test area.
“3” if the coating peels in large fragments covering 25% to 50% of the test area.
“4” if the coating peels in large fragments covering > 50% of the test area and results in a stress whitened
surface.
“5” if the coating peels covers an area < 50% of the test area and does not result in a stress whitened
surface.
Note: A coating fragment is considered small if < one tenth of the size of an individual square and large if > one
tenth of the size of an individual square.
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Template For ENG STDS

Painted Plastic Parts Performance Requirements

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• Mitutoyo products available at; https://ecatalog.mitutoyo.com/Thickness-Gages-Series-7-Flat-Anvil-Type-

3 Test Preparation and Evaluation

9984861, 9984862, 9984901, 9984904).

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Table 1: Reprocessing Requirements

Table 2: Maximum Film Builds

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4 Requirements and Procedure

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Figure 1: Overall APOPS Process

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Figure 2: Fascia System Example – Testing Locations

Figure 3: Initial Adhesion Entire Surface Crosshatch (Exterior)

5 Provisions for Shipping

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TPO Thermoplastic Polyolefin

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VDC Validation Documentation Complete

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9 Release and Revisions

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APOPS Checklist Items Completed (see Table A13) X

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Tests Required For:

Required Testing for Specific Applications (All testing to be done in triplicate):

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