VW 96136 Exterior - Decorative Film / Protective - Requirements and Test Methods

The standard "VW 96136 Exterior - Decorative/protective film - Requirements and test methods," developed by the Volkswagen automobile company, specifies the requirements and test methods for decorative and protective films for outdoor use. This standard does not apply to transport protective films.

For the purposes of this standard, the following definitions apply:

• Forming resistance: The force per unit width required to break an adhesive bond or maintain a specified forming speed.
• Tear resistance: Refers to the first load peak in the forming diagram.

The structure and thickness of the films are determined by the responsible department at Porsche AG or according to drawings.

• Version A: Decorative films
• Version B: Protective films

Films are delivered in die-cut pieces according to the drawing. Die-cut films must be delivered horizontally. Roll delivery is not permitted. As an exception, full-vehicle wrap films can be delivered in wrinkle-free and crease-free rolls. The adhesive surface must be covered with a removable protective paper or film.

For decorative films, the visible surface must also be covered with a removable protective paper or film. The decorative design of the film surfaces must be created by direct inking or post-printing according to a drawing or approved design sample.

Storage life is determined as follows: at least 12 months at a temperature of minus 5 degrees to plus 30 degrees.

During installation, compatibility with existing transport protection systems must be verified according to PTL 5800 or PTL 5805 standards.

Automotive environmental compatibility standards must be met in accordance with the PN 1000 standard. The materials and components used must meet the requirements of the PN 1004 standard.

Samples must be conditioned for at least 24 hours in a standard atmosphere according to DIN EN ISO 291-1 before testing. The bonding surface must be cleaned with a suitable cleaning agent before testing to remove contaminants such as release agents and processing aids. The suitability of the cleaning agent must be proven. Specifications and requirements are detailed in the table below.

Adhesion must be tested on original substrates (e.g., test panels, sample plates). Test panels according to the PTL 5510 standard can be requested from the Porsche AG paint laboratory, and sample plates from the specialist department. The paint system must be identical to the approved paint system components.

Test panels should be cleaned and degreased prior to application. Films are applied according to the manufacturer's adhesive instructions. If manufacturer instructions are not available, the film should be pressed with a force of 20 N/cm² ^for a short time (approximately 10 seconds). No bubbles should remain under the films during application.

The following tests are performed within the scope of the VW 96136 standard:

• Sound resistance test: After the aging steps, the samples must be conditioned for 24 hours in a standard atmosphere according to DIN EN ISO 291 before testing. Mold strength is determined at a 90-degree angle and a tensile speed of 100 mm/min. Initial mold strength is not included in the evaluation. The test must be performed on a tensile testing machine using roller bearings.
• Steam spray test: Applied according to DIN 55662. A utility knife is used as a drawing tool. Conditioning is performed at room temperature for 7 days.
• Abrasion resistance test: According to DIN EN ISO 105-X12 standard, 105 plus/minus 10 g/m² 200 strokes of the crocmeter are performed using a base-weight cotton cloth. Avoid going over the film edges.
• Scratch resistance test: This test is carried out with a hardness test bar, a 1 mm diameter engraving tip and a 5 N load.
• Environmental resistance: Components should be tested on their original surfaces 24 hours after bonding. Test samples are immersed in the test medium for 15 seconds. Excess medium is allowed to drip off. Components are evaluated after 24 hours of conditioning at room temperature (23°C plus/minus 5°C). The specific medium to be used, in accordance with the PN 710 standard, must be agreed upon with the relevant department and the Porsche AG Plant Engineering Department prior to testing, depending on the application.
• Test for yellowing caused by emissions from tyres: Storage in a convection oven at 90 degrees for 240 hours (without direct contact) with 250 g of tyre rubber from new tyres approved by Porsche AG.
• Stone chip test: Two 500 g steel balls are sprayed at a pressure of 150 kPa according to DIN EN ISO 20567-1. The test temperature is as follows:
  • Room temperature (23 degrees plus/minus 5 degrees)
  • After 2 hours storage at minus 20 degrees and immediate spraying

Sprayed with 20.500 g steel ball / 150 kPa pressure according to DIN EN ISO 20567-1 standard. Test temperature is room temperature (23 degrees plus/minus 5 degrees).

• Removal from packaging: Use heat or a steam cleaner (do not use a high-pressure cleaner). This test may leave a small amount of adhesive residue, which should be removed with an adhesive remover recommended by the adhesive manufacturer. The suitability of the adhesive remover should be verified through preliminary testing.
• Post-curing strength test: The test temperature is the maximum temperature after curing according to the processor's specifications. The test time is the maximum time after curing according to the processor's specifications. The test specimens are unstretched and stretched film.

In the competitive world of automotive customization, Volkswagen has long sought to blend aesthetics with functionality. The VW 96136 standard is a premium accessory designed specifically for Volkswagen models, providing impeccable protection for delicate exterior surfaces. Whether used to protect against daily wear and tear or enhance the vehicle's visual appeal, this film embodies Volkswagen's commitment to innovation and quality.

VW 96136 standard, high quality, self-adhesive vinyl film designed to protect and cover specific exterior components such as door sills, sills or underbody trim from common hazards such as road debris, scratches and UV damage.

Available in a variety of finishes, from matte black to metallic accents, the film serves two purposes: a decorative enhancement for a personalized look and a protective shield to preserve the vehicle's resale value. It's especially popular on models where city driving exposes the paintwork to frequent wear and tear. Available in clear or semi-transparent options, the film adds a subtle sheen or texture while still allowing the original color to show through. Key features include:

• UV resistance: Prevents fading and discoloration caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Self-healing properties: Minor scratches can be healed by applying heat, which extends its lifespan.
• Easy to apply: Peel-and-stick design with air release channels for bubble-free installation.
• Durability: Rated for 5-7 years of outdoor use depending on climate.

This accessory aligns with Volkswagen's broader push towards environmentally friendly materials by using recyclable PVC composites that reduce environmental impact compared to traditional paint finishes.

As a result, the VW 96136 standard combines strong protection with customisable style, enabling drivers to keep their vehicles in style for longer.

Our organization, which has been operating for many years and meticulously follows global developments in science and technology, employs a skilled team and extensive infrastructure to conduct testing, measurement, and analysis in a wide range of areas for businesses across all sectors. In this context, we also provide testing services in accordance with the "VW 96136 Exterior - Decorative Film/Protector - Requirements and Test Methods" standard.