This document specifies a method based on a cyclic corrosion test for testing the corrosion protection of automobiles using coating systems on aluminium, steel or galvanized steel.

The test method uses corrosive conditions (temperature and humidity ramps and salt spray) to create realistic corrosion patterns. These corrosion patterns are typical for automobiles, and they are comparable in the case of sufficiently similar protective coating systems. In particular, the accelerated test investigates the delamination/corrosion creep that results from defined artificial damage to a coating. Investigations of surface and edge corrosion or investigations of adhesive specimens or components are also covered. This cyclic corrosion test is also suitable for testing corrosion in flanged areas or near gaps.

This document was developed for the assessment of coated substrates (test specimens, bodywork and mounted parts) in the automotive industry. Other applications, such as components with unpainted metallic coatings, were not part of the scope of the standardization work. This document was originally developed for coating systems on aluminium, steel or galvanized steel but it can also be used for the assessment of the corrosion resistance of coating systems on other metals and their alloys.