VOLKSWAGEN Type 3

The Volkswagen Type 3 was designed to be practical, stylish, and ahead of its time. But like most classic dashes, its foam and vinyl construction didn’t age gracefully—especially around the factory speaker area. This weak spot was notorious for cracking, splitting, and deteriorating over time, making it a frequent trouble area in restorations.

For this 1972 VW Type 3 dash pad, the owner had a specific request: eliminate the recessed speaker perforations. This not only gave the dash a cleaner look but also reinforced an area that was originally prone to failure.

The Common Issue: Why Speaker Areas Crack First
Many vintage dashboards share a similar problem—the speaker openings tend to be the first part to crack. That’s because:

The material in this area was often thinner than the rest of the dash.
Years of sun exposure and heat cycling weakened the foam and vinyl.
The openings created stress points, making the dash more likely to split.
Instead of trying to repair cracks in an already fragile area, we took a preventative approach by reinforcing the structure and ensuring it would hold up for years to come.

The Just Dashes Restoration Process
For this VW Type 3 dash restoration, we:

✅ Eliminated the original recessed speaker perforations, filling it in for a seamless surface
✅ Reinforced the entire area, preventing future cracks and deterioration
✅ Recreated factory-style perforations, keeping an original look without the grill
✅ Applied a thermo-vacuum vinyl skin, ensuring a durable, OEM-quality finish

The Result: Factory Look, Stronger Than Ever
By removing the weakest part of the dash and reinforcing it, this 1972 VW Type 3 dashboard now has a cleaner look, increased durability, and a factory-correct finish. The speaker perforations maintain the original aesthetic while ensuring the material is no longer vulnerable to premature cracking.

Before & After: A Dashboard That’s Built to Last

This restored VW Type 3 dash pad is now ready to be reinstalled, preserving its vintage style without the common pitfalls of aging materials.

Looking to restore your classic dash? Contact Just Dashes for expert craftsmanship that lasts!