Anyone fixed a cracked dashboard?

[Texas4run]

So my 2005 4runner Sr5 have a few cracks in the dashboard. I have started to get really tired of looking at them and trying to find a way to fix/improve the dashboard.

I know about the recall in the past. At the time I actually didn't have a single crack. In other words it is the original dashboard from 2005. I looked at the so called overlay options but it doesn't seem like an option.

Has anyone figured out a way to fix a cracked dashboard? It must be something out there that can be used? Paint, plastidip, filler or whatever.

Any input is welcome.

Thanks

Matt

 

[AuSeeker]

I'm afraid there's probably not a way to repair the cracks, especially a way that will last.

You could try a vinyl repair kit, the reviews for most of them is not all that great but you may get lucky and it works for you.

Amazon.com

I would suggest checking some of the local salvage yards in your area and you may get lucky and find one that was replaced under the extended warranty.

 

[Texas4run]

I'm afraid there's probably not a way to repair the cracks, especially a way that will last.

You could try a vinyl repair kit, the reviews for most of them is not all that great but you may get lucky and it works for you.

Amazon.com

I would suggest checking some of the local salvage yards in your area and you may get lucky and find one that was replaced under the extended warranty.

Thanks for the response. I looked at a few local salvage yards but the dashboards are not that great, or at least not worth the work of replacing the current dashboard with.

Found this, not sure if I want to invest this into a 05 with 248K miles.

55401-35909-B1 Genuine Toyota Part)

 

[d33pt]

Thanks for the response. I looked at a few local salvage yards but the dashboards are not that great, or at least not worth the work of replacing the current dashboard with.

Found this, not sure if I want to invest this into a 05 with 248K miles.

55401-35909-B1 Genuine Toyota Part)

Doesn't seem like it would be worth the work at that age and mileage. Even if the part was free. It probably won't change resale value much.

 

[miller507]

I wouldn't replace it with a salvage dash, chances are its gonna crack too.

If you want a permanent problem free fix, you need to take the dash apart and take it to a upholstery place. Wrap it in some nice leather/vinyl.

 

[AuSeeker]

I wouldn't replace it with a salvage dash, chances are its gonna crack too.

If you want a permanent problem free fix, you need to take the dash apart and take it to a upholstery place. Wrap it in some nice leather/vinyl.

While that is an option, I would think it may cost you as much as just buying a new dash cover from Toyota, but that should be done sooner than later because there doesn't seem many available and Toyota will not be making any more at this point, any you find now are likely left over from the "Extended Warranty".

 

[Texas4run]

Thanks for the replies. I might just have to live with the cracked dashboard.

 

[MikeinNH67]

If it really bugs you you could try something that's strong with a bit of pliability like liquid nails. Put a bead just big enough to fill the void then shave it down once it dries. Then spray some paint or maybe put shoe polish on it. Just trying to think outside the box.

On my truck someone glued something to the dash and made a 2" round ugly divot in it. I used black shoe polish to blend it in. Doesn't bug me anymore.

 

[Inv4drZm]

I thought I read somewhere where some Lexus IS300 guys were filling in the cracks with glue or foam, shaving smooth, and rewrapping or painting I cant remember exactly.

 

[miller507]

While that is an option, I would think it may cost you as much as just buying a new dash cover from Toyota, but that should be done sooner than later because there doesn't seem many available and Toyota will not be making any more at this point, any you find now are likely left over from the "Extended Warranty".

I mean depends on how long you're planning on keeping it, I did that back in 2012 when I first bought my 4th gen payed around 300 bucks for the whole job (dash removal/upholstery). Since the dash was out I changed the evap core too.

There was a time you could buy some sort of dash cover that still looked oemish that sat on top of the factory one.

 

[Texas4run]

I mean depends on how long you're planning on keeping it, I did that back in 2012 when I first bought my 4th gen payed around 300 bucks for the whole job (dash removal/upholstery). Since the dash was out I changed the evap core too.

There was a time you could buy some sort of dash cover that still looked oemish that sat on top of the factory one.

I think this might be what you are referring to.

Coverlay

I have considered plastidip, still waiting for an answer from the "Plastidip company". I have used it in the past on smaller items but not on a whole dashboard.

DipYourCar - World Famous Peelable Auto Paint – DipYourCar.com