Adhesive Tapes for the Automotive Industry
Selectby Thickness
Use thin tape for smooth surfaces. Use thick tape for curved surfaces or large gaps, as the foam must fill the space between the part and the vehicle body.
*Thickness is based on product information at wetapestore.com. Applications are general guidelines. Please verify with the 3M TDS and test on the actual part.
Why Switchfrom Screws to Tape?
Tape does more than just replace screws; it solves the problems that screws create, such as rust, cracking, and vibration.
No Drilling Required
No holes for paint to chip and rust to start. The paint surface and body structure remain intact.
Distributes Stress, Not Point Loads
Distributes tensile and shear forces along the entire bond line. Plastic parts won't crack around mounting points.
Absorbs Vibrations, Reduces Noise
The foam core flexes and recovers with vibrations and thermal expansion of the parts.
Clean Finish, Faster Assembly
No visible screw heads. Eliminates drilling and fastening steps from the assembly line.
Choose the Right Tapein 3 Steps
Answer these 3 questions before ordering, and you'll get the perfect tape on your first roll.
Check Gaps and Curvature
This determines the tape thickness
Check the Material Surface
Adhesive bonds differently depending on the material
Choose Roll or Die-Cut
Repetitive production shouldn't waste time cutting tape
Who UsesThis Tape?
3 main industries regularly order automotive attachment tape from us. Which group fits your work?
Automotive Assembly Plants
Use die-cut tape to reduce Cycle Time for door moldings, bumper trims, and logos.
Body Kit Manufacturers & Installers
Large parts facing wind loads require thicker foam to fill gaps, reducing warranty claims from detached parts.
Paint & Body Shops
Reattaching moldings and trims after paint jobs. Small rolls available to fit the workload.
5-Step Installation
A clean surface and firm pressure are the two factors that determine a successful bond.
Clean
Wipe surfaces with IPA to remove dust and oil.
Primer
Apply a thin coat only on hard-to-bond plastics and let dry.
Position
Align the part first, then peel off the liner.
Apply Pressure
Use a roller along the tape line to remove air bubbles.
Curing
Maximum bond strength in approx. 72 hours at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from our customers regarding 3M GT7100 and 4229 automotive attachment tapes.
What is automotive attachment tape, and can it replace screws?
It is a double-sided acrylic foam tape designed for the permanent attachment of automotive parts, such as the 3M GT7100 Series, which 3M specifies for attaching emblems, nameplates, moldings, step plates, and interior/exterior trim. It can replace nuts and screws without drilling into the vehicle body.
What thickness of 3M GT7100 tape should I choose?
Choose based on the gap and curvature between the part and the vehicle body. Smooth surfaces like logos use 0.4–0.8 mm. Moldings on curved surfaces use about 1.2 mm. Spoilers or skirts with large gaps use 1.6–2.0 mm. You should test it on the actual workpiece before using it in a production line.
What is the difference between 3M GT7100 and 3M 4229?
GT7100 is available in various thicknesses from 0.2 to 3.0 mm, making it ideal for production work requiring specific thicknesses. 4229 is 0.8 mm thick, dark gray, and available in small rolls of 12 mm × 10 m, suitable for body shops and low-volume installations.
Do I need to use a primer before applying the tape?
It depends on the material. Painted steel, ABS, and PC generally do not require it. 3M designed GT7100 to adhere to unpainted TPO and PP, but some plastic grades still need a primer to achieve the specified bond strength. You should test it first.
Can automotive tape withstand sun, rain, and car washes?
Yes, when installed correctly and allowed to fully cure. 3M states that GT7100 performs well in a variety of weather conditions, solvents, and temperature ranges. Please refer to the Technical Data Sheet for exact values of each model.
How long does it take to achieve maximum bond strength?
Approximately 72 hours at room temperature. The bond strength of acrylic foam tape increases over time. Therefore, heavy loads and high-pressure car washes should be avoided immediately after installation.
Can I order die-cuts in the shape of my part, and what is the minimum order quantity?
Yes, Material One (Thailand) Co., Ltd. has its own slitting, laminating, and die-cutting machines. We do not enforce high minimums; you can order for testing or R&D purposes.
Where can I buy 3M GT7100 and 3M 4229 tapes?
You can order online at wetapestore.com or via LINE @wetapestore from Material One (Thailand) Co., Ltd., an ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified industrial tape distributor. You can request a sample for testing before placing an actual order.
References: 3M Acrylic Foam Tape GT7108 Technical Data Sheet and product information on wetapestore.com
Still UnsureWhich Model to Use?
Send us a picture of your part along with the materials for both surfaces. Our engineers will recommend the right model and send a sample for testing before you order.
