Dashboard cracks are a common problem in vehicles, often indicating more than just surface-level wear and tear. These cracks can detract from your car’s interior appeal and sometimes signal structural issues within the dashboard itself. While professional repair services are available, tackling dashboard crack repair yourself can be a cost-effective and satisfying DIY project. This guide will walk you through the process of repairing car dashboard cracks, offering practical steps and advice to restore your dashboard’s appearance.
Understanding Dashboard Damage
Before diving into repairs, it’s helpful to understand what your dashboard is made of. Most modern car dashboards are constructed from either rigid ABS plastic or vinyl that’s laminated over a thick foam padding. Cracks in these materials aren’t merely cosmetic; they often point to structural weaknesses caused by age, sun exposure, or stress. For minor surface cracks, flexible fillers might suffice. However, for more significant damage, a more robust approach is necessary.
Option 1: Installing a Dashboard Cover Cap
For severely cracked dashboards, or if you prefer a less intensive repair method, consider installing a vacuum-molded dash cap. Dash caps are custom-fit covers that overlay your existing dashboard, providing a brand new look without requiring extensive repair work.
Installing a dash cap is generally straightforward, often involving adhesive to secure it in place. This option is particularly appealing if you’re looking for a quick and relatively easy solution to cover up widespread damage. Many dash caps are available in various colors, and custom color matching services can ensure a seamless blend with your car’s interior.
Shop Our Colors
Option 2: DIY Epoxy Repair for Dashboard Cracks
If you’re up for a more hands-on approach, repairing dashboard cracks with flexible epoxy is a viable DIY method. This process requires patience and attention to detail but can yield impressive results. For this repair, SEM Problem Plastic Epoxy is a recommended product due to its flexibility and durability.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to repairing your car dashboard using epoxy:
-
Prepare the Area: Begin by carefully trimming or shaving away any loose or lifting edges around the crack. This creates a stable base for the epoxy to adhere to.
-
Apply Epoxy Filler: Using SEM Problem Plastic Epoxy, fill the crack slightly above the surface level. Smooth the epoxy using a plastic card or similar tool to ensure it’s evenly distributed within the crack.
-
Cure Time: Allow the epoxy to cure for at least one hour. Refer to the product instructions for precise curing times, as this can vary depending on environmental conditions.
-
Initial Sanding: Once cured, begin sanding the epoxy evenly with 220 grit wet-or-dry sandpaper. Wet sanding is recommended to reduce dust and create a smoother finish.
-
Repeat Filling and Sanding: You will likely need to repeat steps 2-4 multiple times. Continue applying thin layers of epoxy and sanding until you achieve a level and even surface that matches the surrounding dashboard.
-
Fine Sanding: After achieving a level surface, refine the sanded area with 500 grit wet-or-dry sandpaper. This finer grit will prepare the surface for texturizing and coloring.
-
Texturizing the Repair: Sanding can often remove the original dashboard texture. To restore this, you’ll need to re-texture the repaired area. A simple method is to use a spray grain product designed for plastic and vinyl repair. Alternatively, tiny dots of super glue, patted down and dispersed with a paper towel, then catalyzed with baking soda and sanded, can also create texture. For best results, follow the super glue method with a spray grain application.
-
Spray Grain Application: Apply thin coats of spray grain to the textured area, allowing each coat to dry for at least 10 minutes before applying the next. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat for achieving a natural texture. Gently refine the texture with 500 grit sandpaper if needed.
-
Color Application: Once the texture is satisfactory, apply color to blend the repaired area with the rest of the dashboard. Rub ‘n Restore® colors are well-suited for this, as they dry with a low-luster finish, ideal for dashboard surfaces, and do not require a separate sealant.
Note: As an Amazon Associate, we receive a small commission for referring the SEM Problem Plastic Epoxy product at no additional cost to you. We appreciate you using this link.
Conclusion
Repairing car dashboard cracks, while potentially challenging, is achievable with the right tools and techniques. For extensive damage or those seeking a simpler solution, dash caps offer an effective cover-up. However, for DIY enthusiasts willing to invest time and effort, epoxy repair provides a method to restore the original dashboard surface. Whether you choose to install a dash cap or undertake epoxy repair, addressing dashboard cracks will significantly enhance your vehicle’s interior and overall aesthetic appeal.
