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Automotive design engineers consistently are presented with challenges in the decorating, labeling, marking, and/or coding of automotive components made from thermoplastic and thermoset polymer materials. Exterior components, such as fascias; interior components, like plastic console buttons and radio panels; and underhood components, such as covers for fuse busses and fluid reservoirs, can present production and performance challenges because of the difficulties associated with making decorative or informational marks on them that maintain durability during the expected life of a vehicle. Many of these parts are small, yet represent a disproportionate design and production cost, incurred through the development and implementation of procedures used for marking them. The automotive industry has used improved techniques, such as laser marking technology, in its attempts to inscribe more permanent and comprehensive markings on critical parts.