Cracked Dash Repair

[WNCB]

New to the forum, but on my second GX. First was a 04 and in a 06 now. Both have had the typical cracked dash and Lexus said “NO!” So I’ve been researching options. The web is loaded with solutions, some better then others. What I’ve found-
•There are numerous companies that specialize in repair of dashboards. Some are even mobile and do it while you’re at work.
•There’s also a few DIY options depending of your desired level of repair and abilities. The attached video/link looks to be the best but takes guide a bit of work and skill.

Repairing a Cracked Padded Dashboard

This Datsun 280Z dashboard has a large split in the vinyl, exposing the underlying urethane foam. The vinyl is puckered along the edges, requiring a wide repair. In this video, we walk through the step-by-step process for restoring this dashboard.

www.polyvance.com

Has anyone researched repairing their dashes and if so, what are your thoughts. Better yet, has anyone attempted a serious dash repair like this?

I’m looking forward to learning from everyone and shareing info.


Thanks! Ben

 

[Brake Weight]

There was someone here that covered the dash with vinyl. Looked pretty good too and looked like a PITA to do.

There’s a couple of threads way on back about it.

 

[Tak555]

in my research... best option is to find a local dealership that will sell you a dash for a decent price, and then install yourself. in socal, i found a dealership that sells them for $611 +tax

 

[dnp]

in my research... best option is to find a local dealership that will sell you a dash for a decent price, and then install yourself. in socal, i found a dealership that sells them for $611 +tax

^^THIS^^ In my opinion, $611 is cheap enough to have it perfect the first time!

(I can't imagine why Lexus would have said "NO," provided the request was made within the warranty period.)

 

[Ruger2011]

Following.

 

[WNCB]

My GX was a lease vehicle. No one applied for the repair within the required time window. Basically it’s expired on me.

611 for a dash?? Do you mind sending the dealers contact info? I live in Western North Carolina and the closest dealer is over 1,500 for parts alone.

Thanks!

 

[Tak555]

$611 dash linked below... so, you can order it too, but the shipping is ridiculous. i contacted them and asked if i could just pick it up, and they said yah.

you might be able to take that link below to your local dealership and see if they can match it.

2003-2009 Lexus GX470 Instrument Panel 55401-60926-C0 | KeyesLexusParts

2003-2009 Lexus GX470 Instrument Panel 55401-60926-C0

parts.keyeslexus.com

for instructions on how to replace the dash yourself, this thread is very useful:

AC evaporator removal, anyone done this?

forum.ih8mud.com

 

[DeathMetalTony]

Lexus will not warranty the dash anymore.

I called Lexus they had me talk to the dealer where I purchased my GX from in Woodland Hills. I talked to the service manager and they told me the original owner never brought the vehicle for that recall, bummer.

I called Lexus back again and told them the info I received, so they basically told me they cant do anything about it. I mention to them I'm a Toyota employee, they told me they were gonna talk to management and see if they could help me out in any way.

2 days later I received a call, basically they cant do nothing at this point, talk about customer service . . .

Called my local Lexus Dealer even at employee price $599.01 its up there.

 

[ohio]

Anyone found a video or can post the service procedure for the panel replacement. I'm okay with the $600, but I don't want to break other parts trying to tear out the current panel and get the new one in there...

 

[greenscobie86]

Mine is showing signs of cracking as well. Coverlay sells a plastic/vinyl cover that installs over the old dash for a little over $315. Install looks pretty easy, just some glue/careful application of the new dash pad/cover...

 

[TahoeLX450]

Mine waited to crack for about three months after the recall expired...I'm using a dash mat to cover my crack. About $$60-70. for a high quality one.

 

[TahoeLX450]

Mine waited to crack for about three months after the recall expired...Like other's dealer said "NO. "I'm using a dash mat to cover my crack. About $$60-70. for a high quality one.

 

[erkelbot]

Anyone have any pics or reviews of a coverlay in their GX? I've seen a few others (most closely a 4Runner), but never a GX. I have a moderately cracked dash and I was thinking about a coverlay as a possible solution once I tire of looking at it.

 

[JerG63]

I called Lexus they had me talk to the dealer where I purchased my GX from in Woodland Hills. I talked to the service manager and they told me the original owner never brought the vehicle for that recall, bummer.

I called Lexus back again and told them the info I received, so they basically told me they cant do anything about it. I mention to them I'm a Toyota employee, they told me they were gonna talk to management and see if they could help me out in any way.

2 days later I received a call, basically they cant do nothing at this point, talk about customer service . . .

Called my local Lexus Dealer even at employee price $599.01 its up there.

Any estimate on how much labor would cost for installation of this dash? Thinking of getting one from Longo

 

[drowzyGX]

Any estimate on how much labor would cost for installation of this dash? Thinking of getting one from Longo

the book estimate from the dealer and a reputable Indy shop for just removing my dash was 9 hours.

 

[Bubbles]

the book estimate from the dealer and a reputable Indy shop for just removing my dash was 9 hours.

LMAO, both lied to you. It's a 4 hour CP job and warranty paid 2.5

 

[drowzyGX]

LMAO, both lied to you. It's a 4 hour CP job and warranty paid 2.5

feel free to cite a source, or I’ll go with you talking out your ass over this indy shop and the dealer both lying and ending up with the exact same estimate. Occam’s razor and all.

 

[KayGX]

Has anyone tried using leather crack filler to fill in the cracks and then paint match with a leather coloring kit? I'm pretty sure the filler is just vinyl, so seems it could work if the color could be matched accurate.

 

[JerG63]

Has anyone tried using leather crack filler to fill in the cracks and then paint match with a leather coloring kit? I'm pretty sure the filler is just vinyl, so seems it could work if the color could be matched accurate.

i've tried it in a small cracked area, it looks pretty bad and i decided not to continue with the entire dash on my own. not really sure how you can get the texture correct

 

[Brake Weight]

If you can fill the cracks successfully you should be able to possibly wrap the entire dash with a vinyl. I remember seeing this done years ago but don't remember where I saw it.