If you’ve never installed a dash trim kit before, then you may be wondering whether it’s something that you can do yourself or if you should call a professional.  Reading through these dash kit installation instructions should give you an idea.  All of our dash trim kits are designed for easy installation.  It is basically a peel-and-stick process, however there are some things you should be aware of before you begin.

Before you start any installation, there are some things you should check first.  So before you start pulling off the film on the back of the pieces make sure to:

• If you have an existing dash kit that needs to be removed, I wrote an article on how to remove a dash kit
• Check for proper fitment of each piece by placing it where it will go on the dash.
• Get an idea of how you will install the piece.  It may even help to use a pencil to trace a line to help with installation.
• Visually inspect each piece to ensure there was nothing damaged in transit and that each piece is in good shape.

If you do find any problems, be sure to contact us immediately so that we can help resolve the problem.  Sometimes a flaw is introduced during the manufacturing or packing process.  This can easily be remedied – we will ship a replacement piece if any type of flaw is found.  It is most important to NOT install any pieces until you have the entire kit with the correct pieces in hand.  If any pieces are installed, they cannot be pulled off and returned and would void any return/exchange policy.

So let’s get to the actual steps of how to install a dash trim kit.

1. Clean the dash It is very important that any surface where the dash kit will be adhered to is perfectly clean, or there may be problems with adhesion.  Clean extremely dirty surfaces with a damp cloth and soap first and allow it to dry fully.  Use the alcohol swabs included in the kit, or regular household rubbing alcohol to remove any surface oils or other treatments such as Armor All.
2. Warm up the pieces If you are installing this in an environment where the temperature is above 80 degrees, then there is no need to warm up the pieces.  Installing outside in the full sun is the best environment.  If you are unable to find a warm environment, then is will be necessary to use a heat gun or hair dryer to heat up any pieces that need to bend in order to be applied.  Heat will also help with the adhesion of the 3M tape backing.
3. Press down the edges To get that complete finished look, it’s imperative that you firmly press down the edges all the way around each piece.  If you rush to put your kit on and don’t pay attention to this detail, you will be disappointed when you see an edge or two lifted from the dash.  Check it from all angles and make sure you get a good seal all around the kit pieces.
4. Use adhesive promoter if need be This is an optional step.  Adhesive promoter is only needed when a pieces needs to make a large bend and may be at risk for pulling up over time.  The key is to use only a very thin layer of adhesive promoter around the edges of the pieces.  If you overdo it with the promoter, you will kill the adhesive on the 3M tape.  So just use it sparingly, and only on those pieces that make a big bend.  Most if not all of the pieces will lay flat and won’t need adhesive promoter.
5. Clean the dash trim kit Once your dash kit installation is complete you’ll want to remove all the fingerprint smudges that have probably accumulated over the surface of the pieces.  Any furniture polish will do the trick, just don’t overdo it.

And there you have it.  If you have more installation questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us  or leave a comment on this blog.  If you are an experienced installer feel free to leave any extra tips you may have here also.