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Surface finishing in the
automotive industry

Technical and visual perfection for every vehicle generation

Functional coatings for safety, durability and series quality

In the automotive industry, surfaces not only have to look good, they also have to function permanently. Corrosion protection, wear resistance, dimensional accuracy and visual requirements meet the highest quantities, strict standards and tight cycle times. Metalux offers certified and series-tested coating processes for applications in the interior, powertrain, chassis or housing construction.

The requirements for coated components in vehicle construction are as diverse as the vehicle itself. Components must function permanently under mechanical stress, temperature fluctuations, moisture and chemical influences. At the same time, design, feel and compliance with standards play a key role – especially in series production.

Metalux offers a wide range of surface finishes for this purpose, tailored to the specific areas of application in automotive technology.

Surface finishing for the automotive industry

Our processes are designed for reproducibility, series capability and process reliability. Documented, quality-assured and continuously monitored by our in-house laboratory.

As an experienced partner, we support our customers from component development through to series production. Economical, flexible and with a deep understanding of the requirements of the automotive industry.

Metalux stands for surfaces that think for themselves. Functional, resilient and ready for series production.

Corrosion protection
for components in the engine compartment, chassis or underbody
High wear resistance
for moving and heavily loaded components
Temperature and chemical resistant
z. e.g. against oil, fuel or road salt
Decorative and functional surfaces
for interior and visible parts
Suitable for series production
thanks to high process stability and reproducibility
Certified procedures
for standard-compliant coating (e.g. in accordance with VDA, ISO, IATF)

FAQ about surface finishing in the automotive industry

Why is surface finishing so important in automotive engineering?
Because vehicle components are exposed to high mechanical, chemical and thermal loads. The right finish reliably protects against corrosion, wear and functional failure – while maintaining dimensional accuracy and design standards.
Which surface processes are used in the automotive industry?

Typical are:

  • Hard anodising for wear-resistant, protective layers
  • Electroless nickel plating for dimensionally stable, uniform corrosion protection coatings
  • Powder coating for decorative and robust exterior surfaces
  • Chromating and passivation for conductive or protected metal surfaces, e.g. for housings or connectors
Does Metalux fulfil the quality requirements of the automotive industry?
Yes, our processes are designed for series capability, reproducibility and conformity to standards – with quality assurance in accordance with applicable standards (e.g. IATF 16949, ISO 9001, VDA specifications).
Are the coatings resistant to chemicals and temperatures?
Absolutely. Our coatings reliably withstand fuels, oils, brake fluid, road salt and high temperatures – crucial for applications in the engine compartment and chassis.
How does Metalux ensure series quality?
Through a combination of automated processes, qualified specialists and our own laboratory for continuous process monitoring – for consistently high quality from prototype to series production.
Can Metalux provide support right from the component development stage?
Yes, we are happy to advise our customers at an early stage in the design and pre-series phase in order to optimally harmonise the coating, material and application.