Best Dash Protectorant

[murocflyer]

I just purchased an 05 SE Camry and would like some advice on what to use to protect the dash. Does anyone know what the exact material the dashes are being made from now? It appears to be rubber and vinyl, but I can't be sure. I was also told to stay away from AmorAll since it tends to dry out those materials.

My questions are:

1. What is the dash made from?

2. What is the best protectorant that I can use on those materials?

Thank you in advance,

Frank

[karugs]

Stay away from silicone-based compounds. Personally I use Klasse on my 21 year old car. Then wipe off the glossy part after a few minutes.

[userlain]

Pinnacle Natural Brilliance Vinyl & Rubber Protectant

[CraigW]

I would say none, just keep it clean. I dont like a shiny dash and most of those products seem to have that effect.

[SmokingTires]

Armor All 100% of the way. I use that on my engine bay to keep it protected too. The stuff works great and gives it a good shine.

I use the protective spray on my engine bay, and the leather wipes on my interior. They clean out all the little cracks nicely and my leather hasn't faded since I started using them. It also gets the dirt off better than just water and a rag.

[Your Uncle Moe]

Armor all! I use armorall even in my house on certain items. lol You should try it on your shoes! It make them shine forever!

[murocflyer]

Well there are certainly a number of different opinions.

Is everyone in concurrence that the dash is made from both vinyl and rubber?

How about 303 products? Has anyone ever tried them?

Thanks again, Frank

[coolchu001]

I've used Black Magic protector ($5-), and its still shiny after 3 months

[eecc]

303 Protectant would be my choice. It gives rubber and vinyl that new look, nothing shiny that would give off glare. It is apparently equivalent to SPF40 sunscreen on vinyl. A little more expensive than other products but worth it when it comes to actually protecting the dash from the sun.

[Tommy]

what ever you do, if you use Armor All, make sure you keep using it. if you use it regularlly then stop, it causes the vinyl to dry out and then it will be more likely to get sun damaged and crack.

dont use silicon based products if you ever plan to have your car painted. Silicon is what causes "fish eyes" in painting.

[dna59]

I got agree with you gridlyne. Armor does make shoes shine.

[Mikey21]

Originally Posted by Stevethecleric

what ever you do, if you use Armor All, make sure you keep using it. if you use it regularlly then stop, it causes the vinyl to dry out and then it will be more likely to get sun damaged and crack.

Steve's right!

I have experienced the dredded post Armor All syndrone. After using Armor All for years on my dash I stopped and within 6 months of me stopping my dash became very brittle. I mean to the point of cracking if you put pressure on it. It would no longer bend or give, it would just crack when under stress.

From that experience I no longer use Armor All. If you're already using it don't stop, you're committed for life. If you don't use it, think about it before starting.

Mike

[murocflyer]

Thanks for all the advice. I haven't put anything on it yet. I definitely will avoid AmorAll. I am leaning towards 303, but haven't found anywhere locally to buy it yet. I have heard good things about that and Pinnacle, but more so on the 303. I really started searching info on AmorAll and 90% of folks say it is best for shining up wheel wells and NOT for inside your car or anything rubber, evn though it may look good at the time.

Thanks again, Frank

[88 LE]

I use Zephyr Pro 39. Got it from a friend that use to work at a auto detail shop. It leaves a nice shiny finish, but its not greasy like Armor All.

[murocflyer]

Zephyr Pro 39. Never heard of that. Is it available in retail stores?