Automotive double-sided tape is becoming one of the most popular adhesives in the automotive industry. It finds use in many purposes, including attaching emblems, license plates, headlights, dashcams, and automotive repairs.
When you apply this tape to a surface and an object, it forms a bond between them as strong as steel.
Mechanics who work on cars will use automotive double-sided tape all of the time because of its versatility and durability when compared to other adhesive options available.
DIYers also choose this type of adhesive over others because it keeps objects in place or helps fix broken things without using tools like nails, screws, or glue.
We have done our research and tested a variety of tapes to find what we believe are the 10 best automotive double-sided tapes available on the market right now. Also, we have prepared an overview of some of our favorites and a buying guide to help you make the right choice.
[wptb id=1251]Our 10 Best Automotive Double Sided Tape Picks:
Here are the detailed reviews on top 10 double side tape that you can use on automotive-
1. Gorilla Double Sided Mounting Tape 6055001
To kick off this review is the Gorilla double-sided mounting tape 6055001. It is a super-strong adhesive tape for many purposes. This tape is made from a foam designed to have high strength, making it one of the strongest industrial mounting tapes available. It has adhesive on both sides and will hold up against all your mounting needs on both smooth and rough glass, metal, plastic, wood, and ceramic. When you can’t use a fastener, this tape will do the job perfectly.
The Gorilla double-sided mounting tape 6055001 is resistant to water, heat, and cold, making it ideal for outdoor use. It can hold objects up to 30lb. It is 60” in size, so use 2” per 1lb. Also, only use it when the surrounding temperature is above 50°F.
The Gorilla double-sided mounting tape 6055001 easily cuts down to different sizes without losing its adhesive capability thanks to its unique formulation. Its service temperature for continuous use is approximately 194°F, while for intermittent, it is 302°F. The best way to use this tape is by applying it vertically and ensuring that your object’s depth doesn’t exceed 0.75″. Also, you’ll get better results if the tape makes complete contact with both sides, or at least close enough, so there are no air bubbles in between them.
This tape makes a permanent bond. If forcefully removed, there will be damages, or it will leave residues. Also, removing the plastic cover from the tape is a hassle. Be sure to apply this double-sided adhesive carefully and in an appropriate way for your project needs!
Benefits
- It can hold objects up to 30lb.
- It bonds to glass, metal, plastic, wood, and ceramic.
- Its service temperature for continuous use is approximately 194°F, while for intermittent, it is 302°F.
Drawbacks
- It is difficult to remove and may damage the surface when removed.
- Taking off the plastic cover from the tape is a bit difficult.
2. 3M Super Strength Molding Tape
3M is a company that sells products for automotive, office, home, and construction professionals. They have been in business for over a century and they’re still going strong! One of their most popular products is the 3M super strength molding tape. This tape is a high-performance rubberized double-sided tape that offers both superior adhesion and impact protection. It has been used in many industries for over 80 years to provide fast repairs on items such as automotive windshields or motorcycle fairings. This tape works faultlessly on both the interior and exterior of any automotive vehicle.
The 3M super strength molding tape is designed to stick plastic, metal, and composite parts onto your vehicle’s paint or unpainted surfaces. It also features a water-resistant coating that prevents moisture from seeping through the adhesive layer. This molding tape is easy to use. All you have to do is, cut the length you need, apply it to the surface and object you want to bond, then press together. It applies in seconds without tools or messes.
The 3M super strength molding tape is available in different lengths, but this version is ½” x 15ft. Its service temperature is from -40°F to 250°F. As with the Gorilla tape above, the plastic cover is difficult to remove. Also, its adhesion doesn’t last for a long time. So, it is not ideal when you need a more permanent bond. On the brighter side, it is very affordable.
Benefits
- It is easy to use.
- It bonds permanently to the interior and exterior parts of any automobile.
- It is available in different lengths and sizes.
- It is affordable.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t bond permanently.
- Taking off the plastic cover is difficult.
3. 3M 4PCS Vhb Sticky Adhesive Pads Replacement Mounting Tape
Another popular 3M product is the VHB sticky adhesive pad replacement mounting tape. VHB Tapes are widely popular for their ease of use and good adhesion, and this one is no different. This tape is widely used in the interior of a car because it offers a lasting solution to those that need to attach items to their car dashboard. It is ideal for attaching phone mount holders, dash cameras, GPS mounts, headphone holders, or anything you wish to fix in your car’s interior.
The VHB sticky adhesive pad replacement mounting tape measures 1.5 x 1 inch, it has a strong resistance to both cold and hot temperatures. Plus, it is not affected by water and leaves no trace when removed.
You can also use this tape in your household on any smooth and hard flat surface. However, note that it won’t stick to soft, rough, cushioned, greased, or leather surfaces. This dual-sided tape comes in 4 pieces. 3M advises users to give a minimum of 48 hours for the adhesive to fully bond before using the phone mount holder. However, this adhesive tape is not a good choice for long-term use.
Benefits
- It’s the perfect solution to installing car phone mount holders, GPS mounts, headphone holders, and dash cameras.
- It is very affordable and easy to use.
- It can stick to any flat hard surface.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t last long.
4. 3M VHB Tape 5952 Double-Sided Acrylic Foam Tape
Whether you are a mechanic or a DIYer, 3M VHB tape 5952 double-sided acrylic foam tape is the perfect solution for your interior automotive bonding needs. It is an enhanced acrylic adhesive that will create a bond not affected by water and air. However, it performs well for indoor applications where there’s less heat.
This durable tape is flexible and conformable for various applications like automotive repairs, water pipe insulation, and metal fabrication. It does the job mechanical fasteners do without the need for drilling, welding, and clean-up. Plus, it bonds to painted metals, stainless steel, and plastics.
The 3M VHB Tape 5952 double-sided acrylic foam tape is red/black. It has a thickness of 6.75”, length of 15 yards, and width of 0.75”. Additionally, it is easy to use. Clean the surfaces you want to bond thoroughly to remove dirt in between. Then peel off the tape’s cover, apply it to both surfaces, and press them together. It takes about 72 hours for the tape to create a permanent bond with the surfaces. You can as well cut it with scissors or razor blades to your desired length.
The 3M VHB Tape 5952 double-sided acrylic foam tape doesn’t come cheap. However, that is not to say it is not worth the price. Compared with other double-sided tapes in its league, and considering the length of each roll, it is well worth the investment!
Benefits
- It creates a permanent bond between surfaces.
- It bonds any metal, stainless steel, and plastic.
- Air, heat, and water doesn’t affect it, so it lasts for a long time.
- It has a length of 15 yards.
Drawbacks
- It is expensive.
- It doesn’t fare well for outdoor applications.
5. Bonding Forever Super Strong Double Sided Tape (2 Packs)
It’s hard to find a reliable and economical type of tape that is good for everything. That’s why we took the time to find the best tapes out there. One of which is called the Bonding Forever double-sided tape! Not only does this tape have an excellent adhesive, but it has a nice thick consistency that will last you through your toughest projects. It is an excellent alternative to screws, nails, and fasteners.
This tape won’t leave residue or glue behind like other tapes do when removed after a long period of use. It is perfect for bonding stuff to surfaces such as wood, glass, ceramic, plastic, and metal. Note that it doesn’t work for painted walls, plaster walls, rough walls, and wallpaper.
Furthermore, the Bonding Forever double-sided tape has a very high tolerance to low (-40℉) and high (302℉ ) temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor and indoor use. It has a measurement of 1” x 60” per roll. Each roll will comfortably hold 50lb.
The manufacturer recommends using the tape 1.2” per 1lb. Just like other tapes, using it is straightforward. Ensure the surfaces are clean and dry, use the tape per the weight of the object you want to bond, remove the red protective films to expose the white tape, and attach it to both surfaces. Adhesion takes 24-hours to set in fully.
Note that this tape will fail if used for an object with a depth greater than 0.75”. Also, ensure there are no bubbles left between the tape and the object. Apply it only when the surrounding temperature is between 68℉ and 104℉. You’ll get two packs of this tape you buy. Most importantly, follow all the tips we have discussed here to get the best out of this tape.
Benefits
- It has a very high tolerance to both low (-40℉) and high (302℉ ) temperatures.
- It comes in two packs.
- It is straightforward to use.
Drawbacks
- None.
6. 3M Scotch Outdoor Mounting Tape
The best way to mount your car license plate, V1, transmitter, emblems, metal car decals, nameplates, or any other metal to your car without drilling and damaging the piece or the vehicle is by using the Scotch outdoor mounting double-sided tape! This double-sided mounting tape is ideal for outdoor use because it has UV inhibitor protection to resist fading from sunlight exposure. It is also resistant to water and extreme temperatures, so you don’t have to worry about your project coming undone due to weather conditions.
The Scotch tape is a durable mounting solution that can hold objects up to 15lb. It comes in a 1” x 60” size, and you’ll get two rolls for a price less than $10, making this tape one of the cheapest on our list. It cuts easily with scissors or a utility knife, allowing you to customize your installation.
The adhesive on this tape sticks permanently and conforms to the surface and item you are mounting. Be informed that you should apply this tape when the surrounding temperature is between 50°-100° F. Also, use 4” of the tape per 1lb of weight to ensure it doesn’t fail.
Benefits
- It is the best double-sided tape to mount metal objects.
- This tape comes two per package.
- Each roll can hold up to 15lb.
- This tape isn’t affected by sunlight, water, high & low temperatures.
Drawbacks
- None.
7. 3M Scotch-Mount Extreme Double-Sided Mounting Tape Mega Roll 414H
Suppose you love the Scotch-mount tape reviewed above and wished it could hold objects with a weight greater than 15lb. Well, your wish just came true! The Scotch-Mount 414h extreme double-sided mounting tape mega roll is everything the Scotch outdoor mounting double-sided tape is and more! It is the strongest tape from the Scotch collections and can hold objects up to 30lb.
The Scotch-Mount 414h extreme double-sided mounting tape mega roll is perfect for mounting objects inside and outside your automobile and around the house or office. It can only be used on all types of furniture, framing members, cabinets, and more.
This tape measures 1″x 400″. It goes beyond just mounting metals to mounting any wooden or brick object. You can use it both indoors and outdoors. It is also cheap and bangs for the buck. Note that for this tape to work as expected, ensure the surfaces you’re sticking together are clean from dirt and dry. Use 2” of the tape per 1lb.
Benefits
- It can hold objects that weigh up to 30lb.
- It is the strongest tape in the scotch collection.
- It is cheap.
Drawbacks
- None
8. Melca Double Sided Rug Tape
The Melca double-sided rug tape is for car owners who desire to tape down carpet, rug pads, and other flooring materials in their cars. And it’s even better when you need to patch an area in your carpet so that there are no frays or loose fabric ends! It’s water and UV-resistant, as well as being acid-free. This rug tape is 2.5 inches wide, providing large coverage. A single roll can cover up to 30 yards.
Furthermore, the Melca double-sided rug tape is durable, easy to use, and affordable. You can cut it into any shape or size needed by hand. The only downside to this tape is that because of its adhesion strength it doesn’t remove without damaging the rug/carpet.
However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to keep your vehicle rug or carpet in place for a long time, then this tape should be at the top of your list!
Benefits
- It is a very durable carpet/rug tape.
- It has a width of 2.5”, which gives it maximum coverage.
- A single roll can cover up to 30 yards.
- It is easy to use and can be reduced into smaller sizes by hand.
Drawbacks
- It may not come off without damaging your carpet/rug or leaving behind residue.
9. Gaffer Power Double-Sided Mounting Tape
The Gaffer Power double-sided mounting tape is an industrial-strength double-sided mounting tape that serves as an alternative to 3M VHB tape. It is perfect for hanging and securing any type of light, camera, rain guard, car stereo speakers, or gas tank. The adhesive has been formulated with strong durability to withstand high temperatures, therefore won’t lose its adhesion in extreme weather conditions.
This double-sided white tape comes in a 1” x 9 yards size. It adheres to a wide range of surfaces, including wood, metal, glass, and stone. It is easy to install, but ensure you always clean the surfaces you want to attach thoroughly before using the tape.
The Gaffer Power double-sided mounting tape cuts easily into any length you need. However, taking it off is a hassle because it can damage the surface and leave behind residue that will take hours to remove.
Benefits
- It has very powerful adhesion.
- You can use it on wood, metal, glass, and stone.
- It is super easy to install and remove without damaging the surface it was attached to.
Drawbacks
- It damages the surface attached to it when removed.
10. Gorilla Tough & Clear Double Sided XL Mounting Tape
The Gorilla Tough & Clear double-sided XL mounting tape mounts anything to the interior and exterior of an automobile, thanks to its high bond strength. This tape thickness also helps it withstand heat from the sun or other sources of intense temperature, as well as cold weather. Its service temperature is between -40°F to 248°F.
The Gorilla Tough & Clear double-sided XL mounting tape also adheres well to most smooth and rough surfaces including, glass, metal, and wood. It is clear, so you will not have any problems seeing through it. Inexpensive, but this tape is a bit hard to use because of the thickness that makes it difficult to cut — if you use a scissor, the adhesive sticks to the scissor and renders it useless. Also, if you try to cut by hand, the tape stretches.
Furthermore, this tape has a size of 1″ x 150″ and can hold up to 38lb. Make sure that your object’s depth doesn’t exceed 0.75″ and apply the tape vertically. Don’t forget to clean the surfaces first. Use 4” of the tape per pound of weight to avoid failure due to being overweight. And only apply it when the surrounding temperature is above 50°F to get the best result.
Beware, do not use this tape on wallpaper, polyethylene, polypropylene plastic, delicate and non-sticking surfaces. As with all Gorilla tapes, lifting the back cover is a difficult task.
Benefits
- It can hold up to 38lb.
- It works on glass, metal, and wood surfaces.
- Its service temperature is between -40°F to 248°F, making it have a high all-weather tolerance.
- It is clear, so it can match any color.
Drawbacks
- The tape cover is difficult to remove.
- It is hard to use.
Best Automotive Double Sided Tape Buying Guide
The following buying guide will educate on some factors you should consider before buying an automotive double-sided tape.
Weight capacity:
Automotive double-sided tape often has a weight capacity, which determines the job for which they are best suited. You should look out for this weight capacity and make sure it is higher than the weight of the object you want to mount.
Temperature:
One of the crucial considerations when deciding on an automotive double-sided tape is how well it performs in extreme temperatures. There are different types of double-sided tape for hot and cold environments, but which one you choose will depend on your needs. It’s not just about whether or not they perform well at low or high temperatures – some tapes can do one but not the other, while others are better for both.
Durability:
The durability of a tape is also one key consideration when deciding on which to buy. Go for one that will last as long or longer than you need it to, without breaking down and losing its effectiveness over time.
Adhesion:
The adhesiveness of double-sided tape matters because if something is securely stuck together with a strong adhesive, there are fewer chances of it coming apart or breaking. Look for a strong tape with good adhesion to help keep your items in place and provide the best possible results.
Weather:
One thing many people forget is how well a product will do in different types of weather conditions. If your goal is to use this tape for outdoor projects that are likely to be exposed to rain or sunlight, go for a tape proven to hold up in extreme weather conditions. The right temperature-resistant tape will provide you a better result in the long run as well, both for indoor and outdoor use.
Surface Compatibility:
The surface that you are sticking your project to is also an important factor. You want a tape with good adhesiveness and adhesive strength for the best results, but what if the material of your project doesn’t hold well to certain types of tapes? This can be tricky, so it’s recommended that you buy a tape that has been proven to stick to the material you are using. Fortunately, almost all the double-sided tapes in our list can work on a variety of surfaces.
Ease Of Use:
If you are a beginner at using double-sided adhesive tape, consider picking a product that is easy to use. It should have clear instructions, which tell how much pressure and length to apply before sticking your project down. Also, cutting the tape into the required size shouldn’t be a hassle.
Pressure-sensitive adhesive can be hard to work with, especially when you are applying double-sided tape outside on your auto body panel.
Color:
Preferably, you should buy an automotive double-coated tape that matches the existing color of the surface and object you are mounting. Transparent tape can also be an option for auto body applications.
Removal:
Some auto-double-sided tapes create a permanent bond with whatever surface and object they are affixed to. Due to this, they may damage the surface or leave behind residue when forcefully removed. If you will remove the tape after a short time, go for one that creates a temporal bond between the surfaces and itself rather than going with an aircraft-grade adhesive strength. At least, I’d go with one that can be removed using a heat gun.
Cost:
Double-sided tapes can vary greatly in terms of price, so it’s best not to go overboard and spend too much money. Some tapes are more expensive than others, but this doesn’t always mean that they are of better quality or will last longer. Try out a few different types before settling with one.
Final Thoughts
We have come to the end of this article, and we hope it helps you make an informed purchase decision. There are many excellent automotive double-sided tapes on the market, so narrowing down our list was difficult! Each double-sided tape that made it to our list has been thoroughly reviewed, covering everything you need to know.
The key in applying an automotive double-layered tape is by ensuring the surfaces it is binding to are free of dirt & moisture, not binding objects with a weight higher than its weight capacity, and ensuring it is pressed well onto these surfaces, so there are no air bubbles. Doing these processes prevents any misalignment from occurring once the product dries and sets. Many people experience failure with these tapes because they don’t carry out these simple tasks.
In conclusion, our buying guide should make you feel confident in knowing what to look for in a double-sided automotive tape. All the factors we have discussed will help ensure that you buy the right double-faced tape for your needs. As a disclaimer–we cannot guarantee that these automotive double-sided tapes will work in every situation or with every type of vehicle.
