I have a 126 as a daily drive and with the exact same spot where the crack line appeared.

I had it professionally repaired, i.e. filled cracked and colour matched, but that only lasted a year over before the crack appeared.

Then, I bought a dash-repair kit. It worked, but for only a few months before the crack returned (but with vengance).

I went then to ChipsAway and was advised to leave it alone as attempts to repair it would be futile (from their experience). The variance in temperature in our tropical climate would only expand and contract (thus split the crack again). A total repair (filling 'er up with some form of sealant, and spray over) won't last either as the spray paint would eventually fade after approx 2 years.

The alternatives:

1. Buy a new or second hand dashboard.

The new was expensive, while the second hand was in very good condition. However, being second hand, risks are always present that it may crack within 2 years or so ....

On the other, the labour charges for removing and installing had to be considered. I thought it might be better to overhaul the entire air-cond system had we thought of replacing it.

But ....

2. Got a dashboard cover.

a. First it was a fabric cover, but felt that it wasn't really in its place for most times as it wont sit securely fastened to the dash. So, it took a little getting used to it before ...

b. ... having a leather one tailored and fastened to the dash.

Now its good that its protected from the sun, and you cant see the cracks.

I had it taped (double sided tape) to the dash, and superglued the top of the tape to the cover. Now it sits pretty in all condition. Never super glue the cover to the dash as it may impede future removals when required.

The costs for the leather cover : about Singapore $150.

__________________
... Kerry

126 tailed by a 203, 129 leading the pack.