Failure mode transition in AHSS resistance spot welds. Part II: Experimental investigation and model validation

► Interfacial to pullout failure mode transition for AHSS RSWs is experimentally studied. ► Relation between failure mode and metallurgical factors of AHSS RSW is studied. ► HAZ softening reduces FZ size require to ensure pullout failure. ► HAZ softening enhances energy absorption capability of AHSS RSW. ► Good agreement between model prediction and experimental results was observed.