Automotive Trim Testing Services
Element’s automotive trim testing helps you ensure that every interior and exterior trim component meets OEM, Tier 1, Tier 2, and international standards for performance, quality, and durability. From single-component analysis to full “body-in-white” assembly validation, we provide flexible, scalable testing and hands-on program management to support design verification, product development, and OEM test plans. Our experts deliver fast, reliable results that reduce risk, accelerate launches, and give you confidence in every trim part across passenger, commercial, and off-road vehicles.
What is Automotive Trim Testing at Element?
Automotive trim testing evaluates the quality, performance, and life expectancy of vehicle interior and exterior trim materials and components. At Element, we provide comprehensive testing from single-component analysis to full “body-in-white” assembly validation, supporting design verification and product development. Our global laboratories and expert engineers help OEMs, Tier 1, and Tier 2 suppliers ensure every trim part meets international and customer-specific standards under real-world conditions.
What Can Element Offer You for Automotive Trim Testing?
Components and Materials We Test
Components and Materials We Test
- Paints, plastics, rubbers, foams, textiles, leathers, and coatings
- Full assemblies such as doors, fascias, instrument panels, and consoles
Key Tests Offered
Key Tests Offered
Our engaged experts conduct physical and performance testing to ensure trim parts meet required standards for safety, quality, and durability.
- Physical properties of materials
- Performance testing of finishes and coatings
- Flammability testing
- Environmental testing (temperature, humidity, corrosion)
- Vibration and in-use simulation
- Buzz, squeak, and rattle (BSR) testing
- Performance of automotive tank tests (ECE R34)
Methods and Solutions Offered
Methods and Solutions Offered
From prototype to full production validation, Element provides hands-on program management, design verification, and product development support. We validate interior and exterior trim components and ensure compliance with international and OEM-specific standards, including Tier 1 supplier requirements.
Trusted by Leading Manufacturers
Trusted by Leading Manufacturers
Element are proud testing partners to global OEMs including GM, Ford, FCA, Jaguar, Nissan, and BMW, as well as Tier 1 suppliers such as BorgWarner, Faurecia, Magna International, and Robert Bosch. Our long-standing partnerships with leading OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers reflect our trusted expertise across all major vehicle platforms.
Which Labs We Offer This Service At
Which Labs We Offer This Service At
Element’s global network of automotive laboratories delivers comprehensive trim testing from hubs across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Standards we test to and components we test
International Standards
- ASTM
- ISO
- SAE
- JIS
- DIN
- ANSI
- FMVSS
- VDA
OEM Standards
- GM
- Ford
- FCA (Chrysler)
- Audi
- BMW
- Daewoo
- Daimler-Benz
- Honda
- Hyundai
- Jaguar
- Mercedes-Benz
- Mitsubishi
- Nissan
- Subaru
- Suzuki
- Tesla
- Toyota
- Volvo
- Volkswagen
Tier 1 Supplier Specifications
- BorgWarner
- Faurecia
- Magna International
- Robert Bosch
Materials
- Paints
- Plastics
- Rubbers
- Elastomers
- Foam
- Textiles
- Leather
- Composites
- Plating
- Metals
- Coatings
- Glass
- Rolled goods
Interior Components
- Flooring systems (mats and carpets)
- Headlamps
- Overhead systems
- Instrument panels
- Consoles
- Seating
- Doors
- Hard trims
- Badges
- Appliqués
- Insulations
- Seals
- Electronics
Exterior Components / Trims
- Fascias
- Grills
- Spoilers
- Bodyside moldings
- Step rails
- Roof rack systems
- Bed liners
- Tonneau covers
- Windshields
- Backlights
- Wheels
- Underbody components
Your Challenges, Our Solutions
Tight Development Timelines
Complex, Evolving Standards
Cost and Re-testing Pressures
Quality and Compliance Risks
Why Choose Element
Global OEM Partnerships
Comprehensive Testing Scope
International Standard Coverage
Full Lifecycle Support
Frequently asked questions
What types of trim components can Element test?
Element tests a wide variety of interior and exterior components including doors, consoles, fascias, spoilers, grills, seals, and flooring systems across passenger, commercial, and off-road vehicles.
What types of trim components can Element test?
Element tests a wide variety of interior and exterior components including doors, consoles, fascias, spoilers, grills, seals, and flooring systems across passenger, commercial, and off-road vehicles.
Does Element support OEM-specific validation programs?
Yes. Element provides full support for OEM test plans, hands-on program management, and ADVP&R processes, ensuring compliance with global automotive standards and specifications.
What OEM standards does Element test to for automotive trim?
Element tests to many OEM standards, including GM, Ford, FCA (Chrysler), Audi, BMW, Daewoo, Daimler-Benz, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Suzuki, Tesla, Toyota, Volvo, and Volkswagen, as well as Tier 1 suppliers like BorgWarner, Faurecia, Magna International, and Robert Bosch.
Explore our global network of labs and find your nearest location
VIEW ALL LOCATIONSBut don't just take our word for it
See what others have to say about partnering with Element
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