Automotive Interior Testing
Cleanability and Soiling
Cleanability and soiling tests evaluate how easily surfaces like seats, carpets, and dashboard materials can be cleaned after exposure to contaminants such as soil, automotive fluids, cosmetics, or food. Common agents used are dust, motor oil, grease, and coffee. This type of testing is important to manufacturers to ensure durability and low maintenance of automotive interiors. Testing typically involves artificially soiling the material with standardized substances, followed by a cleaning procedure using specific methods or cleaning agents. The effectiveness of the cleaning process is then evaluated visually or through instrumental measurements of reflectance or color change. These tests help manufacturers select materials that maintain their appearance over time.
Common Test Methods and Standards
AATCC Test Method 121 Carpet Soiling: Visual Rating
AATCC Test Method 122 Carpet Soiling: Service Soiling
AATCC Test Method 215 Soil Release: Household Soils
BMW GS97034-6 Surface test of motor vehicle interior materials, soiling behavior and cleaning ability (Test procedure A: Abrex method)
Ford FLTM BN 112-08 Soiling and Cleanability Test for Interior Materials
GMW3402 Soil and Cleaner Resistance of Automotive Materials
FCA/Stellantis LP-463KC-04-01 Cleanability of Interior Trim
FCA/Stellantis LP-463KC-04-02 Soiling of Interior Trim
VDA230-212 Leather and Plastic Roll Stock and Textiles for Motor Vehicles - Determining the Soiling and Cleaning Properties
Volvo STD 422-0005 Resistance to Soiling
Why is testing necessary for automotive interior components?
Types of Materials Commonly Tested
Seating •Leather (natural and synthetic) •Fabric upholstery •Foam padding •Seat frames and mechanisms •Stitching and thread •Heated/ventilated seal components Dashboard •Plastics (ABS, PVC, polyurethane) •Soft-touch coatings •Plated plastic trim •Displays •Vents and HVAC controls •Adhesive layers and bonding materials Instrument Panel •Cluster displays •Buttons, knobs, and switches •Touchscreen surfaces •Backlighting components •Haptic feedback mechanisms Center Console and Door Panels •Plastic trim and bezels •Leather or synthetic coverings •Cup holders, storage compartments •Electronic components (USB ports, chargers) •Armrest materials and padding Wood, metal, or carbon fiber accents •Window switchgear and buttons •Interior door handles and lock mechanisms Steering Wheel •Leather wrapping or synthetic materials •Metal and plastic structural elements •Control buttons •Heated steering components •Airbag cover materials Flooring and Mats •Carpet fibers •All-weather rubber mats •Sound-dampening materials •Floor insulation layers Roof Liner •Fabric liners •Sunroof or panoramic roof trim •Insulation and soundproofing materials Interior Lighting •LEDs and backlighting modules •Ambient lighting strips •Dome and reading lights