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Audi: How to Clean the Dashboard

Dust and dirt can accumulate on your dashboard fast. Read on to learn the simple do-it-yourself hacks you can use to clean the dashboard in your Audi.

By Charlie Gaston - March 23, 2016

This article applies to the Audi Q5/Q7, A3, A4 B7, A4 B8, A6 C5, A6 C6.

Let's be honest. Cleaning your dashboard is one of those jobs you'll want to do yourself. The cost is minimum, and you won't need to set aside a lot of time to get the job done right. In fact, you would probably end up kicking yourself for paying a professional detailer to carry out such an easy task – one many Audi owners describe as a "DIY dream." Let's go over the materials you'll need to complete the job, as well as explain the best ways to protect your dashboard (not only while you work but after you're done, as well).

Audi How to Clean Dashboard infographic

Materials Needed

  • Plastic, vinyl and rubber cleaner
  • Plastic, vinyl and rubber protectant
  • Bucket (optional)
  • Microfiber cloths (3-4)
  • Scrubbing brush (optional)

Step 1 – Use a plastic, vinyl and rubber cleaner

For the dashboard in your Audi, you'll want to stick with a trusty plastic, vinyl and rubber cleaner, such as Einszett Cockpitt. These kinds of products typically cost approx. $10 to $15 per 16-ounce bottle and can be found in an auto parts store or local Walmart. It's highly recommended that you avoid products made from silicone (e.g., Armor All). A quality "no-sheen" product that guarantees to leave only a fresh, clean surface will be your best bet. Murphy's Oil Soap (mixed with fresh water) is also a great choice. Be sure to add only a half cup of cleaner to each gallon of water that you use.

Spray your dashboard with the plastic, vinyl and rubber cleaner you choose. Allow the product to work for several minutes before removing it with a clean microfiber cloth. Repeat as needed.

Spray the dashboard with a quality cleaner
Figure 1. Use a microfiber cloth while you clean.

Pro Tips

  • Another plastic, vinyl and rubber cleaning product worth mentioning is Meguiar's Heavy-Duty Vinyl Cleaner, which retails for approx. $10 (16-ounce bottle).
  • Use a scrub brush on stubborn stains.

Step 2 – Prevent fading and cracks

Help to prevent fading and cracks in your dashboard by applying several coats of a high-performance plastic, vinyl and rubber protectant product. Many Audi owners swear by brands such as 303 Aerospace Protectant and Lexol Vinylex. On average, a 36-ounce bottle of a brand-name plastic, vinyl and rubber protectant product retails for approximately $10 online and in auto parts stores. You can expect to achieve a long-lasting finish and shine when using a protectant.

  • Spray the product directly onto your dashboard.
  • Allow it to sit for as long as directed.
  • Wipe away the product using a clean microfiber cloth.
303 Aerospace Protectant product
Figure 2. 303 Aerospace Protectant product.

Step 3 – Clean the instrument cluster screen (optional)

Wipe down the screen using a microfiber cloth dampened with a generic glass cleaner, like the one you use to clean your computer screen. Always wipe the glass slowly, and move in a horizontal direction.

Make sure to clean the screen periodically from dust
Figure 3. Make sure to clean the screen periodically from dust.

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