Did you know that to make a car’s dashboard, car manufacturers use various parts created with injection molding by specialized companies like Beyonics Precision Manufacturing? This part of a car is a really complex one, so if you do not properly care for your dashboard, you might end up replacing it, which is not an easy task and can be pricey.
The dashboard Is one of the most easily overlooked parts of a car, and people fail to see the dust and dirt gathering on it. However, the dash panels act as frames that contain everything from complex electronics to safety airbags. It is also the interface where all the wires interconnect and display your car’s real-time diagnostics and information.
This is why they need to be cleaned and maintained properly. A mess on your dashboard can easily block your view, and the accumulation of dirt and grime may even interfere with the electronics. Fortunately, taking care of your car’s dashboard is easy and takes relatively simple steps.
- Vacuum to Remove Debris
We tend to use our dashboard as a drop spot for things like gloves, sunglasses, water bottles, books, or even mugs. So the first step to cleaning your dashboard is removing your items and other large debris from the dash. Then you can use your vacuum cleaner. Attach a soft-bristled brush to the vacuum to avoid scratching the dashboard’s surface. Gently vacuum the steering wheel, control buttons, and every nook and crook where the dirt often settles. For smaller debris, use a microfiber towel to wipe off the dirt that lingers on the dash.
- Clean the Main Dash
To wipe clean the dashboard, soak your microfiber towel in warm water, and rinse it to get rid of excess water. If your dashboard is filled with grime, dampen the towel with a non-abrasive cleaning detergent. Refrain from spraying the detergent directly on the dashboard to avoid saturating it. Instead, clean the dashboard into small sections. To get into the tiny and tight areas, use toothbrushes and toothpicks.
- Focus on the Gauge Clusters
The gauge clusters make up the hardest-to-clean areas in the dashboard. This is because they are filled with nooks and crannies where dirt and dust easily settle. Cleaning this area requires attention to detail. Gently wipe off the surfaces to avoid scratching on clear plastic surfaces. Use warm water on your microfiber towel to help pick up the dust and debris. Use up and down or side-to-side motions when cleaning the gauge cluster to limit streaking on the plastic.
Next, shine the surfaces using a clear plastic cleaner. The clear plastic cleaner will get rid of surface dust, keep your cluster streak-free and remove smudges, smears, and fingers prints. In addition, investing in routine cleaning on the gauge cluster protects it from yellowing, scratching, and fading over time.
- Wipe the Electronic Screens
Most vehicles have modern navigation features, including a large screen at the forefront of the dash. Unfortunately, the screen is prone to fingerprints, dirt, and smudges. Before cleaning the screen, read the owner’s manual for any recommendations on how to clean the navigation screen.
Avoid using hard-bristled brushes to dust the surface. Rather than using gel cleaners or putties, we recommend using a glass cleaner together with a microfiber towel. Spray the cleaning solution directly on the towel. When over-sprayed on the screen and dash, these cleaning products tend to leave a filmy residue or remove paint from dashboard buttons. If you have an older model, dilute the cleaning solution to protect older painted buttons and surfaces further.
- Protect The Dashboard Surface
With time, dashboards may fade or even crack, and leftover chemicals could accelerate this. This is why it is important to apply protectants and conditioners after cleaning the dashboards. Dashboard protective sprays are easy to find and pocket-friendly. They particularly protect dashboards from UV rays for people living in hot temperatures. Avoid using products that will leave a shine or reflect on the dashboard. This will implicate the driver’s view from inside to outside the windshield.
Conclusion
Following these tips when caring for your dash will preserve its beauty and increase longevity. To do this effectively, you must first identify the materials used to make your dashboard. This will ensure that you choose and use the appropriate cleaning products and techniques.