Replacement Dash - Excessive Sun Glare - Suggestions Please

[ACR Joe]

My dash panel was replaced under warranty due to a flawed finish (actually a 6" diameter shinny spot on the right side). I should have left well enough alone because the replacement dash is shinny all over and the glare off the top of the dash is blinding in bright sun light. The original panel had a nice matte finish that didn't reflect sunlight at all. The dealer said that there are no other replacement options so I'll have to live with the glare (proving once again that they are fully deserving of the Richard Nogin Award).

I don't like the fabric covers and would like to respray the dash to achieve a matte finish that matches the other dash panels. Any suggestions as to what type paint to use, sources, pre-treatment, durability issues, etc.

Thanks .....

 

[Matt M PA]

Hi Joe. My factory panel is dull, so I can't figure why this replacement is shiney. Is it possible that the dealer put some type of dressing on it when they put the new one in? (Thought they were doing you a favor?) Maybe the shine is from a release agent. Have you tried cleaning it with a mild glass cleaner or vinyl cleaner? Bear in mind that vigorous cleaning may remove any factory air bag warnings, etc. Maybe the dealer would try again? I would think that painting this panel may be a real magilla, ensuring that it was clean enough to retain paint/dye for the long run, yet not filling in all the "grain". Good luck.

 

[GTS Dean]

I think Matt is probably onto something. Joe, I suggest getting a little bit of Simple Green and stripping the "shiny stuff" off. Then, just use a slightly damp cloth to dust the dash and keep it looking sharp.

Why do people like shiny dashboard tops in the first place?