How to Remove Hard & Dry Old Glue From a Car Dash

Of all the substances that can stain the interior of a car, glue is often one of the most frustrating to remove. Old glue that has long been dried is especially challenging to dissolve, but can be accomplished using a number of household remedies and commercial solutions. The right solvent will safely restore your dashboard to its original condition in a matter of minutes.

Loosen as much of the glue as you can using a flat, blunt edge such as an old credit card or plastic scraper. This will minimise the amount of chemical solution necessary for removal.

Roll down the windows or leave the doors open on your car in order to keep it ventilated. Dampen a cotton ball with acetone, the leading chemical in nail polish remover; this solvent is one of the most common and effective solutions for dissolving glue in small quantities.

Lightly dab the glue on the dashboard with acetone until it appears to loosen. The chemical tends to dissolve rather quickly. It can safely be applied to plastics and vinyls before it is able to penetrate the surface or cause harm, so use it sparingly.

Apply a small amount of white vinegar to the spot of glue as an alternative, natural household solution. You will find just as much success, but it will take longer to see results. Pour a small amount onto a clean cloth and allow the vinegar to soak the glue for 10 to 15 minutes before attempting to wipe it clean.

Resort to a multipurpose stain remover if necessary. These petroleum- and limonene-based products will safely remove tape, grease, glue and other sticky residue from virtually any surface.

Spray the remover onto the affected area of the dashboard and allow it to set for the waiting period indicated on the product label if necessary. Otherwise, simply wipe the surface free of the glue using a soft cloth such as microfiber or terry cotton; the solution works fast and requires a minimal amount of effort.

Follow up with an interior surface cleaner intended for cars to polish any areas that may have been dulled by the glue. Polish the dashboard with a plastic and vinyl sealant if desired.