As any auto body shop technician will attest, different cars are made of different body materials. Two of the most common materials for Ford® vehicles are aluminum and steel. These materials offer different advantages and drawbacks. Below is a look at aluminum and lightweight steel automotive bodies and how they differ.

Automotive Aluminum

Aluminum is an exceptionally malleable material. This makes it easy to manipulate, which is why it is such a popular choice for auto bodies. It can accept more detailed shapes than steel can, and can be stretched to greater dimensional limits. It is also less dense, which makes it considerably lighter than the alternative. 

Vehicle manufacturers constantly seek strong, lightweight materials for their chassis so they can maximize vehicle fuel efficiency without sacrificing occupant safety. However, aluminum's primary advantage is its corrosion resistance. 

Because it contains no iron, contact with oxygen and water does not cause it to rust. Instead, it oxidizes into a thin, hard layer called aluminum oxide, which further protects the metal. 

Automotive Steel

Automotive steel is about 2.5 times as dense as aluminum, which makes it exceptionally strong. It resists damage due to impacts and road wear and gives vehicles an unmatched feeling of sturdiness. It is ideal for use in luxury vehicles, whose owners seek that well-made, substantial feel. 

Steel contains iron, so it needs to be coated and painted to protect it from corrosion. However, recent improvements in advanced high-strength steels (AHSS), have boosted the material's malleability and reduced its weight. 

A recent survey shows that automakers who adopt AHSS can reduce the cab, frame, and box of a pickup truck by up to 23%. Steel is also easier for an auto body shop to repair. It has a type of "metal memory” that helps it return to its original shape, in a way that aluminum does not.

If you seek reliable auto body repair, contact Collision Masters, the premier auto body shop in Fairbanks, AK, for assistance. They specialize in collision auto repair, auto detailing, and auto painting, and can handle jobs of any size. Their licensed mechanics offer exceptional workmanship, friendly service, and fast turnaround times. Learn more about them by visiting their website or calling the auto body shop at (907) 451-8456 to schedule collision repairs.