Cracked dash removal-2005 TL
Popular Reply
Apr 1, 2014, 06:26 AM
Just here to clear up some Information. I previously worked as a certified Acura technician and been up to date with this issue since 2009, this issue is a manufacture defect. Let me stress this, it will happen EVENTUALLY to almost every 3rd gen TL. It has happened to many 07-08 TL base and type-a models. Cracks almost always form in the same location. Most common on the right side of passenger airbag and center speaker to the top of the gauge cluster area. Over time they will spread, they will form elsewhere, there's no simple fix. Temp difference is the killer of all. With super cold temps, the dash is put through extreme contraction, and the heat expands the dash.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 79
Likes: 20
From: orlando florida
lol thats kinda the point of my post ive got everything removed but the dash and i dont wana keep going without knowing what im doing =-p sooooooooo im looking for a manual or some instructions maybe
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 122
Likes: 50
From: Brampton, Ontario
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Instructor
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 125
Likes: 5
From: Mississauaga, ON
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 79
Likes: 20
From: orlando florida
dashes crack from expanding and contracting in heat as well as drying of material. i have everything taken out of the dash and i just want to make sure i get all the bolts and ties out before i go pulling on it and mess something up. the only noob question is one thats not asked because once you learn something then you have knowledge and there nothing about learning that makes you a noob
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 79
Likes: 20
From: orlando florida
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 125
Likes: 5
From: Mississauaga, ON
Just here to clear up some Information. I previously worked as a certified Acura technician and been up to date with this issue since 2009, this issue is a manufacture defect. Let me stress this, it will happen EVENTUALLY to almost every 3rd gen TL. It has happened to many 07-08 TL base and type-a models. Cracks almost always form in the same location. Most common on the right side of passenger airbag and center speaker to the top of the gauge cluster area. Over time they will spread, they will form elsewhere, there's no simple fix. Temp difference is the killer of all. With super cold temps, the dash is put through extreme contraction, and the heat expands the dash.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Last edited by 04WDPSeDaN; Apr 1, 2014 at 06:34 AM.
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 125
Likes: 5
From: Mississauaga, ON
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
4th Gear
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 4
Likes: 1
From: orange county, ca
Just here to clear up some Information. I previously worked as a certified Acura technician and been up to date with this issue since 2009, this issue is a manufacture defect. Let me stress this, it will happen EVENTUALLY to almost every 3rd gen TL. It has happened to many 07-08 TL base and type-a models. Cracks almost always form in the same location. Most common on the right side of passenger airbag and center speaker to the top of the gauge cluster area. Over time they will spread, they will form elsewhere, there's no simple fix. Temp difference is the killer of all. With super cold temps, the dash is put through extreme contraction, and the heat expands the dash.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Everyone who looks at the inside of my car notices it within 5 seconds. it has gotten worse and irritates me more and more. It also messes up the resale value of the car which sucks more for those who spent time and money to maintain the car's cosmetic. Now knowing the hours it would take I can see how a buyer would use it to negotiate the value of my car down by $1k to $2k. So it is worth it to try to dig for a new one to purchase at about $400 to $900 according to what I had seen within this past week. Or if lucky as you mentioned in "goodwill", Acura will fix it for as low as $200. If not, some people on this site reported being invoiced $2000. I will make the attempt myself but if I get quoted $2000, I will tell Acura "A-C-U-NARA" (small play on wording with "I'll see you na ra" instead of the Japanese Sayonara...) because I could do a lot more than replacing a dash with that much money. But then again, some people are not mechanically comfortable. Either way, I feel ripped off by Acura of the time and/or Money I will have to spend to fix it instead of enjoying my weekend had I bought a car from a different brand who are able to get a dash panel right! Thanks again for confirming the defect.
4th Gear
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 4
Likes: 1
From: orange county, ca
One more Important question I have for you, 04WDPSeDaN. I read some post about TL drivers who are worried about a cracked dash and the Airbag functionality. Do you know if it has caused safety issues or has there been any related instances where the crack Airbag could had been part of safety concerns?
Thanks for stepping up and clearing that up about acura. Now I can confirm to everyone who tells me I didn't take care of my dash. It is sort of insulting for someone who had been maintaining his car. There is even a facebook about the cracked TL dash and how Acura is ignoring it.
Everyone who looks at the inside of my car notices it within 5 seconds. it has gotten worse and irritates me more and more. It also messes up the resale value of the car which sucks more for those who spent time and money to maintain the car's cosmetic. Now knowing the hours it would take I can see how a buyer would use it to negotiate the value of my car down by $1k to $2k. So it is worth it to try to dig for a new one to purchase at about $400 to $900 according to what I had seen within this past week. Or if lucky as you mentioned in "goodwill", Acura will fix it for as low as $200. If not, some people on this site reported being invoiced $2000. I will make the attempt myself but if I get quoted $2000, I will tell Acura "A-C-U-NARA" (small play on wording with "I'll see you na ra" instead of the Japanese Sayonara...) because I could do a lot more than replacing a dash with that much money. But then again, some people are not mechanically comfortable. Either way, I feel ripped off by Acura of the time and/or Money I will have to spend to fix it instead of enjoying my weekend had I bought a car from a different brand who are able to get a dash panel right! Thanks again for confirming the defect.
Everyone who looks at the inside of my car notices it within 5 seconds. it has gotten worse and irritates me more and more. It also messes up the resale value of the car which sucks more for those who spent time and money to maintain the car's cosmetic. Now knowing the hours it would take I can see how a buyer would use it to negotiate the value of my car down by $1k to $2k. So it is worth it to try to dig for a new one to purchase at about $400 to $900 according to what I had seen within this past week. Or if lucky as you mentioned in "goodwill", Acura will fix it for as low as $200. If not, some people on this site reported being invoiced $2000. I will make the attempt myself but if I get quoted $2000, I will tell Acura "A-C-U-NARA" (small play on wording with "I'll see you na ra" instead of the Japanese Sayonara...) because I could do a lot more than replacing a dash with that much money. But then again, some people are not mechanically comfortable. Either way, I feel ripped off by Acura of the time and/or Money I will have to spend to fix it instead of enjoying my weekend had I bought a car from a different brand who are able to get a dash panel right! Thanks again for confirming the defect.
One more Important question I have for you, 04WDPSeDaN. I read some post about TL drivers who are worried about a cracked dash and the Airbag functionality. Do you know if it has caused safety issues or has there been any related instances where the crack Airbag could had been part of safety concerns?
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 79
Likes: 20
From: orlando florida
awesome
yeah i did the goodwill and they wanted 500.00 so i told em to f off but yes i know about the airbag not being usable i might do a super thin coat of fiberglass over it to keep it usable but not sure have to do research and see if its safer just taking the airbag out. and thanks i had all the steps done except the airvents and the firewall i wasnt sure where to go from there.
Just here to clear up some Information. I previously worked as a certified Acura technician and been up to date with this issue since 2009, this issue is a manufacture defect. Let me stress this, it will happen EVENTUALLY to almost every 3rd gen TL. It has happened to many 07-08 TL base and type-a models. Cracks almost always form in the same location. Most common on the right side of passenger airbag and center speaker to the top of the gauge cluster area. Over time they will spread, they will form elsewhere, there's no simple fix. Temp difference is the killer of all. With super cold temps, the dash is put through extreme contraction, and the heat expands the dash.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 79
Likes: 20
From: orlando florida
ok guys so this is a really old thread but i wanted to clear some stuff up! i have the instructions for dash removal i have the entire service manual if anyone wants a copy pm me. also fibreglassing anything inside the car is a bad idea as it will warp from the heat so that a no go unless you plan on using as a show car and keeping it indoors all the time. but anyway free copy in pdf format for anyone that needs the 04-08 service manual for your tl.
1st Gear
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Hello, I am wondering if I can get a copy of the service manual. I need to replace the dash airbag and haven't been able to find clear instruction on how to do this. My email address is birelasj@gmail.com I would really appreciate your help. Thank you
Senior Moderator
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 21,411
Likes: 2,186
From: Space Coast, FL
Hello, I am wondering if I can get a copy of the service manual. I need to replace the dash airbag and haven't been able to find clear instruction on how to do this. My email address is birelasj@gmail.com I would really appreciate your help. Thank you
To any members with a cracked dash, if you still have it I'm looking to buy one to mod
Racer
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 486
Likes: 65
From: St Louis, Missouri
I just bought a minty 2006 tl dash to cracks completely intacted. The one I have isn't as bad as some but would be willing to save it for you once I get it swapped out
Love My Ride!!!
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 23
Likes: 23
From: Ontario, Canada
Love My Ride!!!
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 23
Likes: 23
From: Ontario, Canada
Epoxy won't work long-term. The dash is constantly expanding and contracting, as it heats up and cools down, so the epoxy will crack as well. The main solutions people have chosen are covering it up (search Coverlay) or replacing the whole thing. Good luck!
4th Gear
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 4
Likes: 1
This just happened to my '04 TL after 12 years of ownership. The crack in my dash clearly outlines the location of the passenger side airbag, and I imagine it could affect proper airbag deployment since one area of the dash is now significantly weaker than the other. If you also think this could be a safety issue, you can add your voice to a list of concerned drivers here: Acura TL Air Bags - 2004 ACURA TL Problems With Air Bags
A summary of the linked site is below. Please repost in any appropriate forum if you want to get Acura's attention:
Car problem(s) with the 2004 ACURA TL. This database includes information received by NHTSA from consumers either directly or as recorded by the Vehicle Safety Hotline. This information may be used by NHTSA during the investigation process. You may file your own complaint by calling the NHTSA Monday-Friday 8am to 8pm at (888) 327-4236, TTY: (800) 424-9153. You can also file your complaint online.
A summary of the linked site is below. Please repost in any appropriate forum if you want to get Acura's attention:
Car problem(s) with the 2004 ACURA TL. This database includes information received by NHTSA from consumers either directly or as recorded by the Vehicle Safety Hotline. This information may be used by NHTSA during the investigation process. You may file your own complaint by calling the NHTSA Monday-Friday 8am to 8pm at (888) 327-4236, TTY: (800) 424-9153. You can also file your complaint online.
Cruisin'
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 23
Likes: 1
I can't remember the brand, but I had an ABS plastic dash "shell" that actually looked pretty good, especially considering how relatively inexpensive it was compared to replacing the dash. I'm selling it in SoCal if anyone is interested. Go to this thread https://acurazine.com/forums/car-par...aining-958537/
Advanced
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 54
Likes: 7
From: Houston
Dry good write up.
Im going to try and claim a safety issue with my destroyed dash. I also worked for the dealer and know the process. I'll make a thread if I succeed
Im going to try and claim a safety issue with my destroyed dash. I also worked for the dealer and know the process. I'll make a thread if I succeed
Just here to clear up some Information. I previously worked as a certified Acura technician and been up to date with this issue since 2009, this issue is a manufacture defect. Let me stress this, it will happen EVENTUALLY to almost every 3rd gen TL. It has happened to many 07-08 TL base and type-a models. Cracks almost always form in the same location. Most common on the right side of passenger airbag and center speaker to the top of the gauge cluster area. Over time they will spread, they will form elsewhere, there's no simple fix. Temp difference is the killer of all. With super cold temps, the dash is put through extreme contraction, and the heat expands the dash.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Those know this very well in winter seasons, with defrost vents blowing super hot air most cracks shrink (Dashboard expands, closing cracks). The vinyl dash becomes brittle over time and can't handle the constant expansion and contracting therefore it cracks. With anything extreme, high heat-blistering cold will put stress on any dash. Bumps and vibrations "can" cause a crack to form but only hen the stress levels are at that breaking point. It's a defect, Acura knows and will do little to help. The right way is replacing the dash. Go file a claim with Acura customer service (corporate), take it to the dealership and start the long process of goodwill assistance.
Not everyone will get help, not everyone will get the same offer. Dashboard are now limited. This car isn't made anymore. For those that get their dashboards replaced , it will happen again. They never changed the design or material. I can tell you my dashboard was just replaced under goodwill assistance. 70/30 to be exact. Engineers have said never to put any type of cleaner or conditioner on these dashes since they "breathe".
It's plausible since most "ash" look dashboard don't have cracks (most, not all) while those that have been cleaned and protected (303, armor all, vinyl cleaner) have formed cracks. Also, vehicles garages kept, sun shade, windows cracked open Ect Ect have still formed cracks. Best of luck to all that have this issue.
As for your (Fiberglass) Solution, my main concern is the function of the passenger side airbag. The dashboard has a cut-out from underneath to allow the airbag to deploy. The removal of the dashboard (For the most part) Is pretty straight forward.
-Entire center console: Radio, ash tray, center vent.
-Glove box assembly
-Gauge cluster and trim
-knee booster panel
-Side panels going to glove box and ignition
-A-pillars
-Center speaker and tweeters
-End dash vents
-Disconnect any harness connectors under the dash
-when you open up the doors, there are 3 rubber plugs on the frame looking to the dashboard. Remove them and there will be bolts holding the dashboard to the sides of the car
-There are 2x-4x-6x bolts hidden behind the wiring harness holding the dash to the windshield (Hardest part of the job)
-By where the ash tray is, there are i think 2 bolts that need to be removed.
-When you remove the dashboard you remove it with the metal brace bar that runs from one side to another and it will have the harness attached with the airbag and the vent tubes for HVAC. You need to swap that over to the new dashboard. Get someone to help you remove it.
It will take you roughly 6-8 hours. For those that have done it roughly 4 or less.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 819
Likes: 45
From: CA
can anyone confirm if acura has actually helped a nd how you go about getting help. Ive never heard of "goodwill" from dealerships ive done all the work on my car except the timing belt and did that at a local shop. Im a noob with dealerships
