The Problem: Why Dashboards Deteriorate
Singapore's tropical climate is harsh on interior materials. Here's what typically happens:
| Symptom | Cause |
|---|---|
| Cracking on the top surface | Prolonged UV exposure hardens and shrinks the leather or PVC surface |
| Bubbling or peeling near the windscreen | Heat causes adhesive to fail, especially on afternoon-facing dashboards |
| Fading or discolouration | Sunlight bleaches dyes unevenly, leaving patchy colour |
| Sticky or gummy surface | Lower-quality dashboard materials degrading in heat |
| Curling edges near window seals | Thermal expansion over time |
Most factory dashboards use a thin layer of leather or PVC bonded over foam. That foam breaks down in 5 to 8 years depending on sun exposure. All these issues are fixable.
Our Dashboard Restoration Process
Our car dashboard leather repair process is handled entirely in-house, from removal and preparation to the final quality check. Watch how a full rewrap is done at Five Star Auto Leather.
Step 1: Free Assessment & Quote
Bring your vehicle in for a complimentary dashboard assessment. Our specialists will inspect your dashboard's condition and provide a customised quotation based on its material, damage severity, and the complexity of dismantling and reinstallation.
Step 2: Surface Preparation
Before rewrapping, the dashboard is thoroughly cleaned and degreased so the new material adheres properly. Worn, peeling or damaged areas are carefully sanded and prepared. Where necessary, cracks and deeper imperfections are repaired using a specialised filler compound to create a smooth, even surface.
Step 3: Precision Rewrap
Using high-temperature resistant and formaldehyde-free industrial adhesives designed for Singapore's tropical climate, we apply the new material carefully for a smooth, wrinkle-free finish. Every section is carefully bonded to eliminate bubbles, ripples and lifting.
Step 4: Reassembly & Quality Check
Once the rewrap is complete, all air vents, buttons, trim pieces and sensors are carefully reinstalled. We carry out a full quality inspection covering fitment, alignment, finish and colour consistency before handing the vehicle back to you.
Typical turnaround: 2–3 working days, depending on the extent of damage and the complexity of dashboard removal and reinstallation
Why Choose Five Star Auto Leather?
Choosing the right specialist for car dashboard leather repair means looking at how a workshop prices its work, manages your car's downtime, sources its materials, and controls quality. Five Star Auto Leather does all of this in-house.
Transparent Pricing
Every dashboard rewrap is individually quoted based on your vehicle model, dashboard condition, chosen material and the complexity of the work involved. No misleading "from" prices or hidden charges — just fair, transparent pricing tailored to your vehicle.
Minimising Downtime
Dashboard rewrapping is one of the more labour-intensive interior restoration jobs and typically takes 2–3 working days (longer for certain luxury and supercar models). If you're also reupholstering your seats, steering wheel or other interior components, we'll complete everything together whenever possible to minimise your vehicle's downtime.
Built for Singapore's Climate
We use premium automotive upholstery materials that are heat and UV resistant, paired with high-performance adhesives where required. Designed to withstand Singapore's tropical climate, your newly rewrapped dashboard is built to maintain its appearance and durability for years to come.
100% In-House Craftsmanship
Every dashboard is rewrapped by our experienced craftsmen at our Singapore workshop — never outsourced. From careful preparation and precision rewrap to final installation, we maintain complete quality control and back our work with a workmanship warranty for your peace of mind.
Before & After
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to remove the entire dashboard to rewrap it?
Yes, in most cases. Removing the dashboard allows us to properly prepare the surface and wrap it seamlessly around edges and contours, resulting in a much cleaner, longer-lasting finish. This is also why dashboard rewrapping is one of the most labour-intensive interior upholstery services.
For certain vehicles where only a removable trim section is damaged, we may only need to remove that specific panel instead of the entire dashboard.
How long does dashboard rewrapping take?
Most dashboard rewraps take 2–3 working days. Luxury vehicles, supercars and models with more complex dashboard designs may require additional time due to the greater dismantling complexity and more intricate craftsmanship involved.
Will the new dashboard match my original colour?
We aim to achieve the closest possible match using our extensive range of automotive upholstery materials and colours. While we cannot always guarantee an exact factory match, we can usually achieve a finish that closely resembles your original interior.
Can I change my dashboard to a different colour?
Absolutely. Dashboard rewrapping gives you the freedom to customise your interior to match your seats, steering wheel, door panels or your personal style.
However, because the dashboard sits directly beneath the windscreen, we generally recommend darker or more muted colours to minimise reflections and glare while driving.
Is dashboard rewrapping cheaper than replacing the dashboard?
Not necessarily. The answer depends on your vehicle.
Dashboard rewrapping is a highly labour-intensive process involving dismantling, surface preparation, template making, upholstery fabrication, stitching, wrapping and reinstallation. For some vehicles, especially where replacement dashboards are readily available, replacement may cost a similar amount or even less.
However, for many premium, older or discontinued models where replacement dashboards are expensive or difficult to source, rewrapping can be the more practical and cost-effective option. During our assessment, we'll be happy to advise which solution makes the most sense for your vehicle.