A cracked dashboard can be an unsightly and frustrating problem. Not only does it detract from the appearance of your vehicle, but it can also be a safety hazard if it obstructs your view of the road. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to repair a cracked dash without breaking the bank.
The first step is to clean the area around the crack with a mild soap and water solution. Once the area is clean, you can apply a thin layer of super glue to the crack. Use a toothpick or a small brush to apply the glue evenly, and then hold the crack together for a few minutes until the glue dries. Once the glue is dry, you can use a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the area around the crack. Finally, you can apply a touch-up paint to match the color of your dashboard.
If the crack is large or deep, you may need to use a more permanent repair method. One option is to use a fiberglass repair kit. These kits come with everything you need to repair the crack, including fiberglass resin, hardener, and a brush. To use the kit, simply mix the resin and hardener together and then apply it to the crack. Use the brush to smooth out the resin, and then let it dry for several hours. Once the resin is dry, you can sand it down and paint it to match the color of your dashboard.
Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials
Tools
- Sandpaper (various grits: 80, 120, 220)
- Sanding block or orbital sander
- Putty knife or spreader
- Paintbrush or foam roller
- Masking tape (optional)
Materials
| Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bondo (Automotive Body Filler) | Fill and smooth out the crack |
| Primer (Automotive Paint Primer) | Prep the repaired area for paint adhesion |
| Automotive Paint (Matched to Dash Color) | Restore the original appearance of the dash |
| Clear Coat (Optional) | Protect the paint finish from scratches and UV damage |
Adhesive
In certain cases, an adhesive may be necessary to re-bond cracked dash panels or trim pieces. Consider using the following adhesives:
- Plastic Weld Adhesive
- Epoxy Adhesive
- Cyanoacrylate Adhesive (Super Glue)
Cleaning and Preparing the Surface
Before you begin to repair the cracked dash, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean and prepare the surface to ensure proper adhesion and a smooth repair process.
Materials you’ll need:
- Mild soap or dishwashing liquid
- Bucket or bowl
- Sponge or soft cloth
- Microfiber drying towel
- Rubbing alcohol (optional)
Instructions:
- Gather your materials. Make sure you have everything you need before starting.
- Clean the surface. Mix a solution of mild soap or dishwashing liquid with warm water in a bucket or bowl. Dip a sponge or soft cloth into the solution, wring out excess water, and gently wipe down the cracked area of the dash. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that may damage the surface.
- Rinse thoroughly. Use a clean sponge or cloth dipped in clean water to rinse off the soap solution and remove any residue. Blot the area with a microfiber drying towel to absorb excess water.
- (Optional) Degrease the surface. If the dash surface is particularly greasy or dirty, you may want to degrease it using rubbing alcohol. Dip a clean cloth into rubbing alcohol and gently wipe down the cracked area. Let the surface dry completely before proceeding.
Filling and Smoothing the Repair
Once the crack has been prepped, it’s time to fill it. This can be done using a variety of materials, including epoxy, plastic, or leather filler. For best results, use a filler that is specifically designed for automotive repairs.
Filling the Crack
Apply the filler to the crack using a putty knife or similar tool. Be sure to press the filler into the crack firmly to ensure that it penetrates all the way through. If the crack is deep, you may need to apply multiple layers of filler. Allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
Smoothing the Filler
Once the filler has dried completely, it’s time to smooth it out. This can be done using a fine-grit sandpaper. Sand in the direction of the crack to avoid creating additional damage. Be careful not to sand too much, as this can weaken the filler.
Refinishing the Surface
If the crack is on a painted surface, you will need to refinish the area after the filler has been sanded. This can be done using spray paint, brush-on paint, or a clear coat. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the refinishing product you are using.
Materials You’ll Need
Filling and Smoothing the Repair
| Materials | |
|---|---|
| Epoxy | Plastic or leather filler |
| Putty knife | Fine-grit sandpaper |
| Spray paint | Brush-on paint |
| Clear coat |
How To Fix Cracked Dash
A cracked dash can be a major eyesore, and it can also decrease the value of your car. If you’re looking to fix a cracked dash, there are a few different options available to you. You can either replace the entire dash, or you can repair the crack yourself. Replacing the entire dash is the most expensive option, but it will give you the best results. If you’re on a budget, you can try repairing the crack yourself. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common method is to use a dash repair kit.
Dash repair kits are available at most auto parts stores. They typically come with everything you need to repair the crack, including a cleaning solution, a bonding agent, and a filler. To use a dash repair kit, simply clean the crack with the cleaning solution, apply the bonding agent, and fill the crack with the filler. Once the filler has dried, you can sand it smooth and paint it to match the rest of the dash.
If you’re not comfortable repairing the crack yourself, you can take your car to a professional. A professional will be able to repair the crack quickly and easily, and they will be able to match the color of the filler to the rest of the dash. However, professional repairs can be expensive, so it’s important to weigh the cost of the repair against the value of your car.
People Also Ask
How much does it cost to fix a cracked dash?
The cost of repairing a cracked dash will vary depending on the size and severity of the crack, as well as the method of repair that you choose. If you choose to repair the crack yourself, you can expect to spend between $20 and $50 on a dash repair kit. If you choose to have the crack repaired by a professional, you can expect to pay between $100 and $500.
Can I fix a cracked dash myself?
Yes, you can fix a cracked dash yourself using a dash repair kit. However, it’s important to note that repairing a cracked dash can be a difficult and time-consuming process. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to take your car to a professional.
