What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, we've all been there where the interior of the rig starts looking more like a dust bowl than a car. Between the 40 degree heat, the kids dropping hot chips in the gaps, and that fine red dust that seems to get everywhere, Aussie interiors take a proper beating. This guide is about getting your console and trim back to that factory-fresh look using stuff that actually works in our climate. I'm talking about deep cleaning, UV protection, and fixing those annoying scuffs.
The Reality of Aussie Interiors
The Right Gear for the Job
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Preparation is Everything
Clear the Clutter
Chuck everything out. The coins in the center console, the old maccas bags, the lot. You can't clean what you can't reach. (Check under the seats for that missing socket you've been looking for).
The Initial Blowout
Use your compressed air or the blower at the car wash to blast out the dust from the seams, vents, and buttons. If you skip this, the second you spray liquid, that dust turns into mud and you'll be chasing it all day.
Deep Vacuum
Go over the whole dash and console with the soft brush attachment. Pay attention to where the plastic meets the carpet, that's where the red dirt loves to hide.
The Proper Way to Restore Your Trim
Test an Inconspicuous Area
Always do a test spot on the underside of a trim piece. I learned this the hard way on a high-end Euro car where the 'soft touch' coating literally melted when I hit it with APC. Better safe than sorry.
Agitator Cleaning
Spray your APC onto the brush, not the dash. This prevents 'spotting' where the cleaner might run down behind a screen. Work the brush in circular motions to create a light foam. This lifts the dirt out of the grain (the 'texture') of the plastic.
The Wipe Down
Wipe away the foam with a damp microfibre. Don't let it dry on the surface, especially if it's a hot arvo. If the cloth comes away red or brown, repeat the process. You'd be surprised how much grime builds up on a steering wheel.
Tackle the Nooks and Crannies
Use the toothbrush or a detailing swab for the gear shifter surround and the buttons. If you've got coffee spills in the cup holders (happens to the best of us), let a bit of cleaner dwell there for 2 minutes before scrubbing.
Dealing with Scuffs
If you've got kick marks on the door cards or console, try a damp microfibre first. If that fails, give it a VERY light go with a Magic Eraser. Be careful though, these are basically ultra-fine sandpaper and they will strip the texture if you're too aggressive.
Dry Everything Thoroughly
Make sure the plastic is bone dry before you even think about applying a protectant. Use a fresh, dry microfibre to buff off any remaining moisture.
Apply UV Protection
This is the most important part for Aussie cars. Use something like 303 Aerospace. Spray it on an applicator pad, wipe it on evenly, let it sit for a minute, then buff it off with a clean cloth. It shouldn't feel greasy when you're done.
Clear Plastic Care
For the instrument cluster or piano black trim, use a dedicated glass cleaner or a very light quick detailer. These scratch if you even look at them funny, so use your softest, cleanest cloth here.
Watch Out
The Sticky Button Fix
Watch Out
Keeping it Mint
Common Questions from the Shed
How do I get red dust out of the grain of the plastic?
My dash is already cracked, can I fix it?
Is 303 Aerospace really worth the extra money?
Can I use Armor All?
What's the best way to clean piano black trim without scratching it?
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