Dashboards are an integral part of any car. They provide a safe and comfortable place to store items, display important information, and serve as the center of your driving experience. Unfortunately, many older cars have plastic dashboards that are prone to scratches and scuffs. If you have an older car with a plastic dashboard, it is important to know how to properly repair the scratches. With the right tools and materials, you can restore your dashboard to its original condition.
What You Will Need
Before you start repairing the scratches on your dashboard, you will need to gather the following materials:
- Sandpaper
- Polishing cloth
- Plastic polish
- Soft cloth
- Masking tape
- Vinyl dye
Step 1: Prepare the Dashboard
The first step in repairing the scratches on your dashboard is to prepare the area. Start by cleaning the dashboard with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Once the dashboard has been cleaned, use the masking tape to cover any areas that you do not want to be affected by the repair. Be sure to cover any vents, gauges, or buttons in the area.
Step 2: Sand the Dashboard
Once the dashboard has been properly prepared, use the sandpaper to lightly sand the scratches. Start with a coarse sandpaper and then move to a finer grit. This will help to smooth out the scratches and make them less noticeable. Be sure to sand in the direction of the scratch and not in circles.
Step 3: Polish the Dashboard
Once the scratches have been sanded, use the polishing cloth and plastic polish to buff out the scratches. Be sure to use a gentle, circular motion when buffing. This will help to restore the shine of the dashboard and make it look like new.
Step 4: Apply Vinyl Dye
Once the dashboard has been polished, it is time to apply the vinyl dye. Start by dabbing a small amount of vinyl dye onto the scratches. Be sure to use a soft cloth to spread the dye evenly over the scratches. Once the dye has been applied, use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess dye.
Step 5: Allow the Dye to Dry
Once the dye has been applied, it is important to allow it to dry completely. This process can take up to 24 hours, so be sure to be patient. Once the dye has dried, your dashboard should look like new!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What type of sandpaper should I use?
A. For best results, it is recommended to start with a coarse sandpaper and then move to a finer grit. This will help to smooth out the scratches and make them less noticeable.
Q. How long will it take the vinyl dye to dry?
A. The drying process can take up to 24 hours, so be sure to be patient. Once the dye has dried, your dashboard should look like new!
Q. What type of cloth should I use to apply the vinyl dye?
A. It is important to use a soft cloth when applying the vinyl dye. This will help to spread the dye evenly over the scratches and prevent any smudging.
Q. Is it necessary to use plastic polish?
A. Yes, it is important to use a plastic polish to buff out the scratches. This will help to restore the shine of the dashboard and make it look like new.
Q. What type of masking tape should I use?
A. Any type of masking tape that is safe for use on plastic will work. Be sure to cover any vents or gauges in the area before you start sanding.
Q. How often should I clean my dashboard?
A. It is recommended to clean your dashboard at least once a month. This will help to keep it looking its best and prevent any dirt or dust from building up.
Q. Are there any special techniques for sanding plastic dashboards?
A. When sanding plastic, it is important to sand in the direction of the scratch and not in circles. This will help to smooth out the scratches and make them less noticeable.