Dodge Ram 1500 Dash Covers

Tips for Maintaining Your Dodge Ram 1500 Dash Cover

The dashboard has been playing an integral part in containing gauges and controls for your truck. Not only does it create an ergonomic set-up for the driver, it also provides a distinct aesthetic appeal to your truck. During the 1950s, dashboards were still composed of painted metal adorned with chrome trims. Back then the dashboards looked ornate but sometimes less functional. Drivers also faced the problem of the dashboard glare as a result of the gloss coating given to the metal. However, as the automotive industry changed, manufacturers began using other materials when molding their vehicle's dashboards. Some, if not most, of the vehicles today are equipped with molded plastic dashboards. These are lighter and easier to replace but more prone to damage. Continued exposure to elements cause cracks and warping. To prolong the lifespan or beautify their truck's dashboards, some owners resort to installing products like the Dodge Ram 1500 dash cover. Here are some tips on how to maintain dashboard covers.

• Dust the dash cover at least once a week.

Dash cover materials like carpet and suede can easily accumulate dust if you allow it. It gets worse if you let it sit there over a long period of time. Combined with moisture, these dust and dirt can stick to the material and ruin your dashboard ensemble. To keep that from happening, dust your cover using a brush and a vacuum cleaner. Gently but thoroughly run through the entire surface until you are convinced that your cover is free from dust.

• Regularly check the mounting points for effectiveness.

The Dodge Ram dash cover is mounted to your truck's dashboard using Velcro tabs. You have to regularly check if these mounting points are still effective or already need replacement. If they do not work anymore, there is a possibility that some parts of the cover will go out of place and develop wrinkles.

• Use the recommended cleaning solution to get rid of dirt spots.

Accumulated dirt will turn your dash cover darker (or lighter for black materials). You would want to use the recommended cleaning solution on the surface of the cover. After spraying the mixture, rub the dirt off using a clean wet cloth. Once the area has been addressed, dry it off using another clean cloth.

• A dash cover is an accessory that fits over your dashboard and protects it from damage.
• Using a dash cover prevents the dashboard from drying out, cracking, and fading. It also protects it from dirt and scratches.
• There are two types of dash covers that you can choose for your truck: dash mats and molded dash covers.
• Dash covers are typically sold individually or in sets of two. This accessory may cost you anywhere between $50 and $450.
• Installing a dash cover helps make cleanup easier, protect the resale value of your truck, and improve the look of your vehicle.

Despite being a “young” contender in the pickup segment, the Dodge Ram 1500 has established itself as a tough competitor. Bagging Motor Trend’s ‘Truck of the Year” award several times, it has proven that it’s worthy of going head-to-head with other iconic trucks who have longer histories.

While the Ram 1500 is a venerable workhorse, it’s not completely indestructible. Long hours under the sun can turn your truck into an oven and cause damage to certain materials. To reduce heat and protect your dashboard from sun or heat damage, you’ll need to use a dash cover.

Heat and prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause your Ram 1500’s dashboard to crack or fade. The dash cover helps keep the dashboard cool after driving or parking for long hours under the sun. Using a cover prevents the dashboard from drying out, cracking, and fading.

A cracked dashboard damaged from the heat of the sun emits chemicals that can form a haze on the windshield. Using a dash cover protects your windshield from glare, preventing the gas from damaging the windshield and affecting your road visibility.

Installing a dashboard cover also protects your dash from scratches and dirt, keeping your truck looking clean and new for longer.

There are two types of dash covers that you can choose for your truck: dash mats and molded dash covers.

Dash mats

A dash mat is a type of cover that is typically made of fabric. These are often held in place by Velcro tabs. Dash mats are easy to install, which allows you to experiment with different materials and styles without breaking the bank.
 

Molded dash cover

Molded dash caps are custom cut for specific models to perfectly fit the contours of your dashboard. These covers have thermoplastic backing that gives the cover its structure. This type of dash cover can help you achieve a seamless look by concealing existing cracks or holes. These come with strategically placed cutouts for it to not interfere with your truck’s airbags.

Finding the right fit

There have been three generations of Dodge Ram 1500, each generation with parts of varying sizes. To find the right dash cover for your vehicle, enter your truck’s specific year, make, and model into our website’s search engine.

Dash covers are typically sold individually, in sets of two, or as part of a kit, which includes a rear deck cover. This accessory may cost you anywhere between $50 and $450.

Watch out for any faded spots or rifts on the surface of your dashboard. If your dash feels hot to touch after being parked for a while, you probably need a dash cover to protect your interior. Using a dash cover is highly recommended, especially if you don’t have access to covered parking during the summer.

Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider getting a dash cover for your Dodge Ram 1500.

Easier cleanup

Damaging your dashboard is easy if you use the wrong oils for cleaning. Using the wrong product can cause the material to crack or get discolored. Good thing a dash cover allows the fabric component of the cover to absorb dirt, making it easier to clean without risking permanent damage on your truck. Just vacuum the cover and you’re good to go.

Protect the resale value of your truck

Heat and UV damage can make your truck look older and more beaten up than it is. Using a dash cover creates a barrier that protects your dashboard from harsh sunlight which can dry it out and cause it to crack. Aside from sun damage, the cover also protects your dash from getting scratched or stained.

Improve the look of your vehicle

Used and hand-me-down trucks may have dashboards that have faded over time. Installing a dash cover is a quick and easy way to conceal any discoloration or cracks. You can also match your dash cover with your interiors to further personalize the look of your truck.

To browse through our vast collection of dash covers and other parts for your Dodge Ram 1500, input your truck’s year, make, and model in our website’s search engine.
 

Is the front dashboard of your Dodge Ram 1500 starting to take on a careworn appearance? Do you feel the need to change its looks? Or are you looking for ways to improve your pickup truck’s performance?

Picking the right dash cover will not only make your Ram 1500’s interior look good but also keep the dashboard clean and safe from harm. It may even improve your truck’s fuel efficiency.

Short for “dashboard cover” and also called “dash mat” after the popular brand, a dash cover is a tailored overlay that goes over a vehicle’s front dashboard. Made from various fabrics that come in many colors, it serves as concealment, decoration, and protection.

A dashboard cover is either a universal fit or a custom fit. The former costs less and will fit different vehicles, hence its other name of “generic dash cover.”

On the other hand, a custom fit dash cover has cutouts that account for the airbags, speakers, and vents in the dashboard of its specified vehicle. It will not interfere with those useful and vital car parts.

Both types use Velcro fasteners to attach to the dash. Anyone can remove and replace a dash cover.

A dash cover isn’t just for show. Aside from making your dashboard look different or nicer, it also protects the dash from various environmental conditions.

Shields against sunlight and heat

Sunlight has a harsh component called ultraviolet (UV) rays. It also transfers heat into anything it hits. Constant direct exposure to UV rays and heat will cause the dashboard to become dull or develop cracks.

A dash cover blocks sunlight from reaching the dashboard. By absorbing or reflecting UV rays, it preserves the interior panel’s integrity.

Reduces glare

Many dashboards reflect light. They sometimes redirect that light into the eyes of the driver. A dash mat with a carpet finish reduces the risk of glare during sunny days.

Keeping it clean

Dirt and dust particles scratch and scrape at the dashboard’s surface, leading to a duller finish over time. Keeping the dash clean will also prevent such damage.

Easy on the eyes

Not all dashboards will win beauty contests. But a dash cover can keep the worst damage out of sight and raise the resale value of your truck.

Improves fuel efficiency

Believe it or not, a dash cover can help you save money. Since it absorbs sunlight and heat, a dash mat helps keep the interior cool. It reduces the need to run the air conditioner, which in turn saves fuel.

At CarParts.com, we offer a plethora of options for Dodge Ram 1500 dash covers that cost anywhere between $69.90 and $280.06. The price range for these products is exclusive to our store. The dash covers are available in singles, sets of twos, or as a part of a kit. You can find the perfect custom dash cover for your truck if you enter its year, make, and model in the filter tab.
 

The dashboard is an integral part of any vehicle’s interior ensemble. It contains the different components that you use to control and monitor your vehicle. Aside from its essential functions, it also provides aesthetic appeal in order to improve the owner’s driving experience throughout the ownership of the vehicle. These are some of the reasons why auto manufacturers put a considerable amount of thought and attention to this area of a vehicle’s interior. But as the automotive market expands, things like economies of scale, ergonomics, and manufacturing integration are put into a deeper perspective. This is why dashboards have changed over the decades. From steel dashboards sprinkled with chrome trims here and there, manufacturers began using more and more plastic materials to create the modern dashboards. This is the same issue with American pick-up trucks. The downside of these light and easy-to-mold panels is their tendency to react with continued exposure to heat and UV rays. Over time, cracks and discoloration become apparent. One way of protecting the modern truck’s dashboard is by using products like the Dodge Ram 1500 dash cover. Here are some tips on installing or replacing this accessory.

Tip #1: Inspect if the old dash cover has considerable amount of wear and tear.

Dash covers are often made of materials like carpet or suede. Just like the fabric from your rags and seats, the materials experience wear and tear over prolonged use and exposure to elements. And since the cover acts as a primary protection of your dashboard against the sun’s UV rays, it is inevitable that you will need to replace it eventually. Things to watch out for are color discolorations, change in the material’s texture, tears on the surface, and warping from the original shape. If these symptoms are already apparent, then it might be time to replace your cover.

Tip #2: Always clean and wipe your dashboard before mounting a new set of dash cover.

You would want to remove all the dirt, adhesive residue, or any other obstructions on the dashboard surface before you mount the new set of cover. This ensures that no particles will be trapped between the layers which might cause damage on the plastic in the future.