Hi all. I have an 01 TT and the leather dash is showing some signs of bubbling near the front side of the dash. Really too bad because the car is otherwise extremely nice and a relatively low mile example ( 40k). In any case, I have been trolling ebay to see what may exist for a dismantler leather dash. I'm realizing this is an opportunity to update to an 02 or newer dash and get the advantage of a glove box. I have tended to own vintage cars ( Porsches and other), so it's generally not a good idea to mix and match. Not as sure when it comes to the 996 Turbo. I know these will become ( are already, really) collectible cars, so I'm conflicted about the install of an 02+ dash. Just not sure. As you all know, it's a project to do the dash replacement and I intend to do it myself. I'm open to all the thoughts out there so I can make the right decision - though I know it's ultimately something I will need to decide and be committed to. Appreciate your help.

 

Have you considered just fixing the bubble areas and not replacing the entire dash?

 

Swapping to a glovebox dash is a fairly involved process and is not a straight swap. Do a search in the 996 (non-turbo) forum to see what’s involved.

 

Thanks. I have been doing internet research on fixing the bubbled area. Research seems to suggest its futile, but I do have some ideas that I want tottery. One outhouse things where it may get worse. I guess that may not matter if I was all the way to replacing it. As for the glove box, I will research that for certain. It appeared as though it was then very same dash with a cutout for the glove box that mounts underneath. Doesn't surprise me that there are other issues. That's fine, I am good without a glovebox. Very helpful and thanks.

 

i have the same issue as you and also have been down the same road with options. every local upholster doesn't want to touch the car because they say they cannot repair in place and told me the right way to do it would be to take the dash out (and possibly have to remove the windshield to remove the dash). at this point we are nearing winter and i contemplated removing the dash myself and bring it to them to recover but i still haven't found a place willing to do it. i also have been watching ebay for just a replacement dash since that is the most cost effective, but haven't found a leather one. then i also thought about doing an updated dash with the glove since you would think that it's just another part to get the glove box door...

as of right now, the best solution i have found is classic9 in michigan. i've called them and discussed sending them my dash for repair, (estimate came out to about $1500 installed and shipping both ways with materials).. i thought that was a bit steep and then thought about just ordering the leather from them and have someone local install (save on shipping). my binnacle cover is also shrinking so i thought about maybe trying it myself to see how difficult it is but then i don't have the proper glue, etc... at this point, it's just a visual improvement i can live with. there are so many other mechanical things i want to get thru first then i will address 'looks' later...

https://www.classic9leathershop.com/.../996/covers-11

keep me posted on how you go...

 

The binnacle cover should be an easy swap for a different one.
I thought about changing to an 02+ dash to get the glovebox, there is a lot more than just the dash. The supports behind also need to be changed. I think the center stack also needs to have different parts, at least the trim ring is one piece on the 02+ and three pieces on the 01.
I couldn't find a reasonable price on a leather dash so I decided to live with the 01 dash.

 

Thanks. I am getting used to it, but it's really an eye sore when you decide to stare!. I'll find a decent used one in time for an 01 and go from there. Thanks for the education on the 02-up dashes. Could have been a costly mistake.

 

I had a 2001 C4 with this same problem, and the dash needs to be removed which is about a 3 hour job.
I sent it to Bob at Classic 9 for recovering along with the gauge binnacle and air bag door so everything would match.

 

Do you have a picture of the finished dash?

 

 

How did it hold up?

 

I no longer have the car but the dash looked brand new.
I have used Classic 9 several times, Bob does great work.
I had him cover the center console in my turbo which has deviated red stitching and it came out great, perfect match.

 

Awesome. Did you remove /re-install yourself? Also, was recovering cheaper ( by a good margin) than a new one? I have seen reference to $1500 for a new one, but that may be way off reality. I like the idea or recovering though. Thanks for that information.

 

I did the removal and install myself while the car was laid up for the winter. I think with shipping both ways I was under $1000 which was 5-6 years ago.

 

Thanks. Seems like a very viable option and the best way to ensure proper refitting. My plan is to take on the removal/install once I retire , as time will be on my side ( I hope). Can live with it until then easily enough. Can you point me any any information/links that you used to guide the removal.? I'd get those saved for that ultimate project. I've restored a few muscle cars over the years - so bag and tag is always crucial, but deconstruction order and fine details is priceless. Thanks again!