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In general, automotive door seals need replacement every 3 to 4 years. Initially, check for visible cracks in the seals. If there are fractures, they can be repaired using adhesive. However, if the damage is severe, replacement is necessary. Signs indicating the need for seal replacement include deteriorating sound insulation, increased noise levels inside the car, and sensations of air leaks despite the ineffective operation of the air conditioning system.
Aside from the perimeter of the doors, seals are present in various parts such as windows, sunroofs, engine compartments, and trunks. The primary function of these seals is to provide insulation; effective seals not only reduce noise but also prevent water and wind penetration.
However, seal strips are primarily made of plastic materials such as vulcanized rubber, silicone, neoprene, butyl rubber, thermoplastic elastomers, thermosetting plastic vulcanized rubber, plasticized polyethylene, and surface coating materials. Due to regular exposure to extreme temperatures and their role in isolating the interior from the exterior environment, these materials inevitably degrade and deteriorate over time.
In addition to the aforementioned symptoms of deteriorating insulation and air leaks, obvious plastic cracks or visible damage on the seal strips indicate the need for repair.
What to Consider When Replacing Seal Strips:
Firstly, before replacing seal strips, ensure to choose the appropriate style based on your vehicle model. Different vehicle models may utilize different types of seal strips, making correct selection crucial.
Secondly, before using the new seal strip, it's essential to remove the original one completely. Thoroughly clean the areas that the seal strip must cover, especially old dust and sand. If possible, apply a layer of protective agent to prevent seal strip aging and significantly improve sealing effectiveness.
Thirdly, when replacing door seal strips, ensure to leave space for drainage holes beneath the doors. Typically, there are one or two drainage holes under the doors. Failure to address them could lead to complications.
Fourthly, if there are unusual noises during window operation, it's likely due to seal strip issues. If adjusting the seal strip position doesn't resolve the issue, consider replacing the window seal strip.
Fifthly, pay special attention to the seal strips of automotive sunroofs. Prolonged exposure to air, especially sunlight and rain, makes sunroof seal strips susceptible to damage. Once damaged, they may cause air or water leaks. Therefore, timely maintenance or replacement of sunroof seal strips is necessary to ensure effective sealing.
Replacing seal strips for doors, engine compartments, and trunks is relatively straightforward. If you possess some DIY skills, self-replacement is feasible. However, seeking professional assistance from repair shops or automotive detailing shops may be necessary for replacing seal strips in positions such as sunroofs or windows.
The automotive detailing shop's customer management system suggests that while door, engine compartment, and trunk seal strips are relatively easy to replace, seeking professional help may be necessary for sunroof or window seal strip replacement.
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