How to Paint a Car Interior

When it's time to update the interior of your car an inexpensive option is to paint the dash, door panels and other plastic or vinyl areas. Painting the dash on your car will last for years and with a little imagination, you can turn the manufacturers blah to awe.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Towels or rags
• Primer
• Paint
• Clear coat

Instructions

1. Remove all of the knobs, dials, switches, buttons and trim. Wash any parts you want to paint thoroughly in warm soapy water. Rinse each piece in clean water and dry. Use a blow dryer on areas that are difficult to reach. Use a damp cloth for any electronic parts being careful not to get water inside the case.

2. Clean the dash and other areas you'll be painting with soapy water. If you have used interior shining products on these areas, you'll need to spend extra time to get it off. Use a towel or rag with clean water to get any soapy residue off. Dry the dash with a towel and blow dryer.

3. Tape anything that you do not want to get paint on, paying close attention to windows and instruments. Regular blue painters tape works well for this project.

4. Use primer on the dash and other parts to give the paint a surface to adhere too. The primer should be applied using the manufacturers instructions and allowed to completely dry.

5. Paint the car dash and other parts with a paint designed for plastic or vinyl. Allow the paint to dry, with the windows down for 24 hours so that the paint won't chip or crack. You can apply a clear coat if desired to add gloss and protect the paint.

6. Install the parts you removed being careful not to chip the paint. Test any controls to ensure they are working properly.

7. Protect your car dash from the sun by using a window sun blocker and your paint will last for years.