Find HS Code and trade information for engine cover/tailgate rubber mount grommet connector

Engine Cover/Tailgate Rubber Mount Grommet Connector

An engine cover/tailgate rubber mount grommet connector is a small but critical component used in automotive applications to secure engine covers and tailgates while minimizing vibration and noise. These connectors typically consist of a rubber grommet and a corresponding fastening element, designed for installation into pre-existing holes in the vehicle's body or the component being mounted.

Material

These connectors are predominantly manufactured from:

• Rubber: The primary material, typically EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber, known for its durability, resistance to weathering, ozone, and temperature fluctuations. Silicone rubber is also used in high-temperature applications.
• Metal: Often incorporates a metal clip, stud, or nut for secure fastening. Common metals include steel (often zinc-coated for corrosion resistance) and sometimes aluminum.
• Plastic: Some designs may include plastic components for additional support or ease of installation.

Purpose

The primary functions of these connectors are:

• Vibration Isolation: Dampen vibrations generated by the engine or movement of the tailgate, reducing noise transmission into the vehicle's cabin.
• Secure Mounting: Provide a firm and reliable connection between the engine cover or tailgate and the vehicle's chassis.
• Noise Reduction: Minimize rattling and squeaking sounds associated with loose engine covers or tailgates.
• Impact Absorption: Offer a degree of flexibility to absorb minor impacts and prevent damage to the mounted components or the vehicle body.

Function

These connectors function by:

• Compression Fit: The rubber grommet compresses when inserted into a mounting hole, creating a tight and secure fit.
• Clip/Stud Engagement: A metal clip or stud engages with a corresponding feature on the engine cover or tailgate, providing a positive locking mechanism.
• Elasticity: The rubber material provides elasticity, allowing for some movement and vibration absorption.
• Corrosion Protection: Coatings on metal components prevent corrosion and ensure long-term reliability.

Usage Scenarios

These connectors are used in a variety of automotive applications:

• Engine Covers: Securing plastic or composite engine covers to the engine block or intake manifold.
• Tailgates: Mounting tailgates to the vehicle's body, providing a secure and vibration-free closure.
• Hoods: Similar application to tailgates, securing the hood to the vehicle's frame.
• Trunk Lids: Used to mount trunk lids, similar to tailgates.
• Other Body Panels: Can be used to secure other body panels where vibration isolation is required.

Common Types

Several types of engine cover/tailate grommet connectors are available:

• Clip-In Type: Features a metal clip that snaps into a corresponding hole.
• Stud Type: Incorporates a metal stud that is inserted into a hole and secured with a nut.
• Push-In Type: Designed to be pressed into a hole, relying on friction for retention.
• Torx/Hex Head Type: Features a Torx or hex head for easy installation and removal with a specialized tool.
• Rubber Cone/Buffer Type: Simple rubber cones or buffers used for cushioning and vibration damping.
• Combined Types: Some connectors combine features from multiple types for enhanced security and ease of installation.

The declared goods, engine cover/tailgate rubber mount grommet connector, can be classified under the following HS codes based on the provided information:

• 4006.10.00.00: This HS code covers “Other forms (for example, rods, tubes and profile shapes) and articles (for example, discs and rings), of unvulcanized rubber: "Camel-back" strips for retreading rubber tires”. While specifically mentioning "Camel-back" strips, this chapter broadly includes articles of unvulcanized rubber, potentially encompassing rubber mount components in an unvulcanized state. The basic tariff is 2.9%, with an additional tariff of 7.5%, resulting in a total tax rate of 40.4%.
• 4006.90.50.00: This HS code covers “Other forms (for example, rods, tubes and profile shapes) and articles (for example, discs and rings), of unvulcanized rubber: Other: Other”. This is a broader category for unvulcanized rubber articles and could include rubber mount grommets. The basic tariff is 2.7%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, resulting in a total tax rate of 57.7%.
• 4016.99.30.00: This HS code covers “Other articles of vulcanized rubber other than hard rubber: Other: Other: Of natural rubber: Vibration control goods of a kind used in the vehicles of headings 8701 through 8705”. Given the function of a mount as vibration control, and its use in vehicles, this HS code is applicable if the grommet is made of natural rubber. The basic tariff is 0.0%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, resulting in a total tax rate of 55.0%.
• 4016.99.60.10: This HS code covers “Other articles of vulcanized rubber other than hard rubber: Other: Other: Other Mechanical articles for motor vehicles”. If the grommet is considered a mechanical article for motor vehicles, this HS code applies. The basic tariff is 2.5%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, resulting in a total tax rate of 57.5%.
• 8708.99.55.00: This HS code covers “Parts and accessories of the motor vehicles of headings 8701 to 8705: Other parts and accessories: Other: Other: Vibration control goods containing rubber”. This is a direct match for vibration control goods used in vehicles, specifically those containing rubber. The basic tariff is 2.5%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, and a further additional tariff of 30.0% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tax rate of 57.5%.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'engine cover/tailgate rubber mount grommet connector' are limited, with only the following 5 found.