Trim strip outside

Exterior trim mouldings protect and enhance the transition areas between cab panels, doors, mudguards, grille components, entrance steps and windows. On MAN and Mercedes trucks, buses and vans, these finishing parts are more than decorative: they cover mounting points, reduce dirt build-up and prevent sharp sheet-metal edges, paint transitions or plastic panels from remaining exposed and vulnerable. For correct selection, trim mouldings, clips, end pieces and mounting profiles must always be identified using the vehicle chassis number. Visual comparison or selection based solely on the model name is never sufficient, as wheelbase, cab version, year of manufacture, facelift and equipment level can alter the length, curvature, colour and mounting method.

Exterior trim mouldings are available as narrow decorative strips, wide protective mouldings, chrome-look profiles, black textured plastic parts, aluminium finishing profiles and flexible rubber-plastic combinations. Depending on their location, they are fitted using plastic clips, guide lugs, double-sided acrylic foam tape, screw connections or integrated locking hooks. Especially on MAN TGL, TGM, TGS, TGX and TG3 cabs, the mouldings differ according to cab width and height. On Mercedes Atego, Axor, Actros, Antos, Arocs and Econic models, the grille variant, bumper version and cab configuration are also decisive. For Sprinter, Vito, Viano, V-Class, Citan and TGE vans, body length, sliding door version and wheel arch trim also play a role.

On buses, including MAN Lion’s City, Lion’s Coach and Intercity, Mercedes Citaro, Intouro and Tourismo, and Neoplan Cityliner, Tourliner and Skyliner, trim profiles are often longer and subject to greater thermal expansion. Plastics such as ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) and PP/EPDM (polypropylene with ethylene propylene diene rubber) combine impact resistance with weather resistance. Aluminium strips require proper separation from steel or aluminium body panels where moisture and salt exposure may cause galvanic corrosion.

Common faults include loose ends, broken clips, UV fading, warping due to temperature fluctuations, damage caused by branches or vehicle wash systems, and cracks after a minor collision. A moulding that bulges locally often does not indicate a faulty profile, but rather residual tape, a deformed panel or a broken locating lug. Therefore, first inspect the mounting surface for dents, paint damage, corrosion and irregular panel gaps. Measure the gap along the entire moulding using a feeler gauge or digital calliper; an increasing deviation usually indicates an incorrectly fitted part or a misaligned body panel.

Use plastic trim removal tools instead of metal screwdrivers to avoid damaging paint edges and clip seats. For bonded trim mouldings, heat the tape in a controlled manner; excessive heat can permanently deform ABS or PP/EPDM profiles. Remove all old adhesive residue, degrease the mounting surface with a suitable cleaning agent and ensure that the surface is dry. Do not fit new clips or tape onto rust, loose paint or silicone residue. First position long profiles dry, check their connection to the corner pieces and then press them into place evenly according to the specified fitting sequence.

Replace trim mouldings when the locking tabs are broken, the profile is cracked or the moulding does not fit sufficiently tightly, allowing water and dirt to penetrate behind the part. Reusing aged clips often leads to rattling noises, loss while driving and damage to surrounding paintwork. Preferably replace the associated fasteners, end caps and sealing profiles as well. A correct fit reduces wind noise and keeps the cab of trucks, buses and vans professionally finished. Thanks to technical support and parts with verified fitment, Braem can help keep downtime following body damage to a minimum.