Subaru Full Interior Detail with Melted Dashboard Treatment
This Subaru came in for a full interior detail, but what made this job stand out was the melted dashboard—an increasingly common issue with aging interiors, especially in vehicles left exposed to the sun. The dashboard had become sticky, glossy, and discolored, making it a dust magnet and unpleasant to touch.
Interior Deep Cleaning
We started with a thorough vacuum and surface cleaning to remove built-up debris, followed by a full interior reconditioning:
- Vacuuming & Debris Removal: All carpets and seats were vacuumed, including tight crevices around seat tracks, door pockets, and the center console.
- Steam Cleaning: Used on fabric and hard-to-reach trim to lift embedded grime and sanitize the interior without harsh chemicals.
- Leather Conditioning: Applied a pH-balanced leather cleaner and conditioner to restore moisture to the aging seats, particularly on the bolster edges which showed wear.
Melted Dashboard Restoration
The melted dash required delicate work. These surfaces can’t just be wiped down—they need safe removal of the sticky coating and special treatments:
- Surface Prep: We used an alcohol-based prep to break down the initial sticky layer without damaging the soft-touch vinyl.
- Heat-Safe Degreaser Application: Applied carefully to soften and lift the melted residue.
- Microfiber Buffing & Finishing: Repeated cycles of cleaning and gentle buffing removed the residue and restored the dash to a matte, non-sticky finish.
- Protective Dressing: Finished with a UV-resistant, non-greasy protectant to prevent further melting and preserve the restored surface.
Results
The final result was a transformed interior that looked and felt dramatically better. The sticky dash was fully restored, and the car no longer gave off the unpleasant texture or gloss typical of dashboard melt. This detail not only improved the look but the comfort and hygiene of the cabin—perfect for Rhode Island’s hot summers and bright sun exposure.
