Dashboards and interior plastics fade and turn grey from sun exposure, and they attract dust as they age. A non-greasy dashboard dressing with UV blockers restores the look and slows further fading. Riders United Dashboard Polish (5101) is a dashboard dressing whose page says it restores the original finish of faded plastics, is infused with UV blockers against fading, cracking and discolouration, and has antistatic additives to repel dust. It comes in 200 ml, 550 ml and a 5 L bulk pack for detailing workshops.
Why it happens
- UV exposure. Sunlight through the windscreen breaks down the surface of dashboard plastics, which fade and go chalky.
- Dust and ageing. Aged plastic surfaces build up static and attract dust.
You will see faded or grey plastics and an interior that gets dusty again soon after cleaning.
How to fix it
Pick the pack for the job:
- Car owners and small workshops: Riders United Dashboard Polish, 550 ml (5101) or the small 200 ml retail size (5104).
- Detailing workshops using it in bulk: the 5 L pack (5108).
The page says it is safe to use on most interior surfaces of a car, such as the dashboard, door trims and other plastic and fibre parts, that it is non-greasy, and that it leaves a pleasant smell.
The 5101 page has no step-by-step directions. Follow the instructions on the pack and the TDS. Around the application:
- Clean the surface first to remove dust and grime, then let it dry.
- Apply as the pack and TDS direct.
- Make sure no excess is left that would make a surface slippery.
- Work panel by panel.
Test on a small, hidden area first, especially on textured or soft-touch plastics and on older vehicles.
What to avoid
- Keep it off the steering wheel, pedals, gear knob and any grip surface; the page does not list these, and a slippery grip is a safety risk.
- Keep it off the windscreen and instrument glass, where it can cause glare or smears.
- Do not apply in direct hot sun on a hot dashboard; let it cool.
- Test first on surfaces you are unsure about. The page says "most interior surfaces", not all.
Keeping the finish longer:
- Park in shade or use a windscreen sunshade where you can, since sun is the main cause of fading.
- Dust with a dry microfibre cloth between treatments rather than wiping with water.
- Reapply when the surface starts to look dull or dusty again.
When to ask an expert
A polish will not fix structural damage. Look at trim replacement if:
- the dashboard is cracked, warped or lifting;
- the surface is sticky or melting, which can happen with some aged plastics;
- airbag covers are damaged. Do not repair or treat those yourself; take the vehicle to an authorised workshop.
FAQ
Will dashboard polish stop my dashboard cracking?
The page says it has UV blockers that protect from fading, cracking and discolouration. It will not repair cracks that are already there.
Is it greasy?
The page says it is designed to be non-greasy and has antistatic additives that help repel dirt and dust.
Can I use it on door trims and plastic panels?
Yes. The page lists dashboards, door trims and other plastic or fibre parts among the interior surfaces it can be used on.
Which pack should a detailing workshop buy?
The 5 L bulk pack (5108) suits regular workshop use; 550 ml and 200 ml suit retail and personal use.
See the product: Riders United Dashboard Polish. More vehicle maintenance fixes: vehicle hub.