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S130 Cracked Dash FAQ

Cracked black dashboard

Many Z cars, particularly first-generation models, suffer from cracked dashboards. This is not a problem unique to the Z car; just about any 20-plus-year-old car with a dashboard made from similar materials could very likely experience the same problem.

Un-cracking a Cracked Dash

So, you just bought yourself a cherry 280ZX, beautiful in every respect, except for one small thing — your dashboard is cracked and nasty. It's the one eyesore in your gorgeous car.

Your Options

1. Buy a new dashboard and replace it

PROS:

  • The finished result will look great — definitely the best solution for quality and originality.

CONS:

  • Effort — removing and reinstalling a dashboard is a pretty big job.
  • Cost — a new dashboard can cost upwards of $700, possibly more.
  • Rarity — finding a new dashboard may be a major undertaking in and of itself. It's not like Nissan is making a whole lot of these anymore.

2. Have your cracked dash recovered

PROS:

  • Quality — This is second on the list in terms of originality and quality. In fact, modern materials and techniques can sometimes produce a higher quality dash than those available in the 70s, though it will be less “original.”
  • Availability — No need to search for a new part; it’s already in your car.
  • Warranty — Some companies offer a lifetime warranty for their work. If it cracks, they will re-cover it for free. (See CONS for the catch.)

CONS:

  • Effort — Still requires removal and reinstallation of the dashboard, which is a big job.
  • Cost — Can be expensive, sometimes even more than buying a new dash from the factory.
  • Downtime — The dash must be removed and taken to a shop, leaving your car unusable for days.
  • Originality — The recovered dash may not match the original grain pattern.
  • Warranty — Even if it’s free to re-cover, you’ll still need to remove and reinstall the dash yourself.

3. Replace it with a used, but uncracked dash

PROS:

  • Cost — Can be very cost-effective, especially if salvaging other parts from a donor car.
  • Quality — You’re getting an original part.

CONS:

  • Effort — Requires complete dash removal and installation (possibly twice if using a parts car).
  • Quality — No guarantee the replacement won’t crack soon after installation.

4. Put a cap on it

PROS:

  • Cost — A full-face dash cap can be found for $100 or less.
  • Durability — Hard plastic caps may be more durable than the original dash.
  • Ease of installation — No need to remove the dash.

CONS:

  • Quality — Looks good for the price but not original. Close inspection reveals it’s a cap.
  • Risk — Installation quality greatly affects the final appearance. Mistakes may be hard to fix.
  • Fit — Variations in original dash molds may affect fit. Only way to know is to try.

5. Repair the cracks

PROS:

  • Cost — Cheaper than a cap. DIY kits can be under $20.
  • Effort — Less trouble than removing and reinstalling the dash.

CONS:

  • Quality — Results can vary widely from perfect to awful.
  • Durability — Repairs may not last; cracks can reappear in the same spot.

6. Live with it

You’re kidding, right?

Prevention

Unfortunately, much of the discussion of how to prevent a dashboard from cracking has little real, scientific basis that I could find on the Z car list. There is a bit of theory and a wealth of owners’ experiences available there, but a definitive answer may not be possible given the data available. Here, I will present the arguments and summarize the pros and cons of each solution so you can evaluate what you think is best.

Before we discuss prevention, it’s useful to understand exactly what causes dashboards to crack. While I’m no expert, some IZCC members are, or have consulted experts, and I will use their descriptions here.

What Causes Dashboards to Crack?

  • Ultra Violet light is ionizing radiation. It can disassociate and even ionize molecules.
  • If the damage is cracks, it’s likely from heat (causing outgassing or drying). If it’s surface powdering, it may be from UV light. Over years, even small amounts of transmitted UV can cause damage.
  • The sun’s UV is intense enough to cause eye damage in minutes — sunglasses protect your eyes, but your dashboard is exposed without protection.

Conclusion: the cause of dashboard cracking is the sun. An uncracked dash must be protected from sunlight. High cabin temperatures and rapid temperature changes may also contribute.

Cover the dash when the car is in the sun. A towel or sheet works; custom-fit covers are prettier, and a full car cover offers the most protection while also shielding paint, seats, and carpets.

Protectants: The Controversy

“Protectants” are substances applied to the dashboard to help prevent cracking, often by restoring oils or blocking UV. This is controversial because there’s little objective data, and many conflicting owner reports.

Armor-All

The most well-known vinyl protectant. Opponents claim it accelerates cracking by drawing oils to the surface, especially on older untreated dashes. Some members report rapid cracking after use, while others have used it for decades without issue. An ex-employee alleged the company knew it harmed vinyl — allegations the company denies.

'Luster Is Off of Armor All Protectant Ad'
  1. National Advertising Division found Armor-All’s ads misleading in comparisons.
  2. Armor-All holds ~65% of the protectant market.
  3. Some detailers claim it harms dashboards in heavy sun, though unverified.
  4. A wrongful termination suit alleged concealed research showing damage to tires and airbags — suit pending.

You should draw your own conclusions.

Nu-Vinyl

Reported as non-greasy and easy to apply, but little other information is available.

Vaseline

Petroleum jelly is inexpensive and widely praised by IZCC members and professionals. No adverse effects were reported, and it’s considered by many to be the most effective protectant.

Sunscreen

In theory, if it blocks UV on skin, it can block UV on dashboards. However, residue may be an issue, and it doesn’t restore oils — so follow up with a protectant.

Baby Oil

Essentially mineral oil with fragrance (and sometimes talc). Expect a scent, and possibly residue if talc is present.

301/303 Protectant

Mentioned as a safer alternative to Armor-All, with no reported negative effects.

How to Apply Protectants

  • Clean the dashboard with mild soap and water.
  • Apply protectant with a soft, lint-free cloth, covering all vinyl surfaces.
  • Wipe off excess with a second cloth. Buff if you want extra shine.

Sources Used

  • Information Compiled from the IZCC Mailing List
  • Cracked Dash Picture from: Philbert on Zdriver.com