Extreme heat is not only bad for you, but it’s also bad for your car, especially the parts that are directly exposed to intense sunlight. Your dashboard, in particular, can crack if it’s constantly hot, and few things ruin the look of an interior faster than a cracked dash.

A dash cover is a vital accessory that protects your dashboard from the adverse effects of extreme temperatures and general wear and tear. It can even hide unsightly spots or cracks on your dash if you aren’t ready to replace your dashboard with a new one just yet. Learn how to install a dash cover using the guide below.

Items You May Need

• Glass cleaner
• Microfiber towel
• Masking tape
• Weights (e.g. paper reams, books or small sandbags)
• Cardboard wedges
• Sandpaper
• RTV silicone adhesive [included with Replacement dash covers!]

Preparing Your Dashboard

Remove dust, debris and any dashboard material that has broken loose. For better adhesion, clean the surface with an ammonia-based glass cleaner. Apply the cleaner to a clean microfiber cloth to protect the surrounding areas from overspray.

Dry Fitting Your Dash Cover

Before you apply the adhesive, place your new dash cover directly over the existing dashboard to check fit and alignment. Make sure your airbag, sensors and vents are clear. In some cases where the dashboard has shifted due to heat or damage, minor trimming may be required.

Securing Your New Dash Cover

For the best results, use professional RTV clear silicone, which is designed to work on plastic, wood, rubber, fiberglass, etc. as specified by the manufacturer. Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions for materials used in the installation.

• Clean and prep the underside of the dash cover.
• Add adhesive only around the openings and edges. It’s not necessary to glue the full underside of the dash, as this would restrict movement caused by temperature changes. Exercise care in applying an even amount of adhesive to minimize clean-up once pressure is applied.
• Place the dash cover on your dashboard. Align and secure it with tape, weights and wedges (placed between your windshield and dash cover) as needed. Wipe any excess adhesive that may squeeze out carefully and thoroughly. Let it sit overnight or for a minimum of 4 hours, or additional time if needed due to adhesive manufacturer guidelines and temperature conditions.

Enjoy your sleek, newly resurfaced dashboard!

Where to Get a New Dash Cover for Your Vehicle

It’s time to get a new dashboard cover when severe cracks or large patches of discoloration appear on this part’s surface. Since the cover protects the dashboard from damage, you’ll want to replace it immediately. Fortunately, CarParts.com can help you get a compatible replacement dash cover for your car or truck.

Enjoy convenient shopping for dash covers online with CarParts.com. Plug the year, make, model, and engine of your car or truck into our website’s integrated vehicle selector, and the search results will show the most suitable products in our catalog of parts and accessories. You can place your order with a few clicks or taps, and our secure website makes it safe and stress-free. All our on-hand products are ready to ship from the nearest distribution center, ensuring the part you ordered arrives in only several business days. We guarantee the quality of your new dash cover by exclusively sourcing our components from trusted auto parts brands.

Let CarParts.com help you find a competitively priced, quality dashboard cover that fits your vehicle. Don’t miss out on the great deals on dash covers, and order a new accessory today!