ZeRoSL

So... I need to clean this up, but am not sure how to go about it.

I would like to ideally take the plastic out, but if it takes hours and much disassembly, I would rather try to polish it in place.

What are your suggestions for both the instrument cluster and center console?

I couldn't find any tutorials on how to remove either screen

NateJG

I use "Speed Shine - The Five Minute Detail" (exterior car paint care spray) on a new microfiber towel to first lift off the dust, and then to clean/polish the screen.

It's a Griot's Garage product (now available locally on AutoZone shelfs) - part number 874596004205.

I also use that on my cars' paint between waxes (as it totally hides the micro-scratches from the California Duster).

ZeRoSL

Just to clarify, it appears there was some sort of chemical got etched in. I tried rubbing it off, and had no luck

User 41924

My Nav screen is particularly difficult. I simply can't make it not streak. It's like it has some sort of anti glare coating that won't come off. It looks horrible if the sun hits it directly.

Last time, I just tried a good MF cloth that was slightly dampened. I think I may have found a secret, but I still think there's some sort of coating. At this point, I'm pretty reluctant to put any chemical on the plastic, so I just try to not let it get bad before I clean it.

jfelbab

Meguiar's makes a series of professional products specifically for cleaning and polishing clear plastic.
M1008 Clear Plastic Polish
M1708 Clear Plastic Cleaner
M1808 Clear Plastic Detailer

zmcgovern4

iTrader: (2)

First - I wish you the best of luck.

As you said, it does appear to be some sort of chemical staining. I hope it is not too bad and will come out with relative ease. You're likely going to see the best results if you can do this with a dual action polisher, and not by hand. In my opinion, the only real option here to do it properly would be to remove the instrument cluster. I'm not familiar with this model, but on the ISF it is a relatively easy process. The screen in the center dash area can likely be done while installed since you do not have a steering wheel in your way. Just tape off surrounding areas to protect them.

As with polishing paint, always start with the least aggressive method and work your way up as needed. So, begin with a finishing polish and a polishing pad and see what you can do. Work your way up to a medium cut, and then heavier cut only if needed. Worst case scenario is your going to have to sand the plastic until it is smooth and then polish out all of the sanding marks (similar to a headlight restoration).

Look forward to seeing your progress... take some photos to share

-Zach

UDel

I had some stubborn stains on my speedometers, Mequairs PlastiX worked pretty well, any decent polish and some elbow work should work pretty well for stubborn stains.

TaninAuto

Hi, Tanin Auto Electronix here. We are vendors on the site and were wondering what the year and model is for your cluster? We might be able to help out with a replacement lens. The chemical etching won't come out, unfortunately. Ammonia free cleaners are the way to go!

ZeRoSL

I will hopefully try the polishes soon.

as far as responding to TaninAuto goes Hello, I have a 2010 RX350.
If its affordable, I wouldn't mind purchasing, but more importantly, I would need instructions for removal and replacement

ZeRoSL

Just got back from a polishing session and I think it turned out pretty well. My wife is satisfied with the result at least and it didnt cost me any extra.

I already had a Turtle Wax Scratch and Swirl remover and the label said it was safe for plastics, so I decided to do a test spot on the interior console before going at it.

I used both my finger and a microfiber cloth to apply and buff, rubbing in random motions, then used a clean damp microfiber to wipe away any residue.

Here are the results

ZeRoSL

Just for funsies I also tried the product on the headlights which my wife had complained about as well After
Before

TRD_Power

If you ever take another shot at it, you might want to look into the Novus plastic polish kit:

I always use canned air and Plexus on my gauges as part of the regular cleaning process. Looks like you made some great progress, however.

ZeRoSL

If I had to do it again, I would definitely use something a little more abrasive to start, but I find it very difficult to find which random off the shelf polishing products are more or less abrasive than others.

TRD_Power

The first step of this polishing kit is pretty dang abrasive. Definitely worth a shot.

TaninAuto

If you can inbox us with your VIN, we can get you more info and pricing!

Thanks,