White chalky residue on dash

[Cadillac Tech]

Document ID: 2225410
#PIC5072: White Chalky Residue On Interior Trim Panels Or IP Dash Pad - keywords appearance chalk color dark dash dust film instrument leather left pad panel right spot spots stain substance vinyl white - (Jan 20, 2009)

Subject:White Chalky Residue on Interior Trim Panels or IP Dash Pad​

Models:2004-2009 Cadillac XLR models

2005-2009 Chevrolet Corvette models​

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.
Condition/Concern:​

Some customers may comment of a chalky substance that is present on the interior trim panels. This is more commonly noticed on dark colored trim versus lighter colored trim. The release of this chalky substance is referred to as "Out Gassing" and can occur with plastic and vinyl materials.
Recommendation/Instructions:​

DO NOT replace the trim panels to correct this concern. Clean the interior trim panels using Murphy's Oil Soap or an equivalent, non-acidic, cleaner. Replacing the trim panels does not guarantee this will not happen again.
Note: Murphy's Oil Soap can be purchased at most grocery stores. Follow the directions on the bottle for use.
Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.​

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[mtrocket]

Interesting, Bruce. I usually use Maguire's vinyl cleaner on the interior panels...I've never heard of using Murphy's oil soap on vinyl, usually use it on wood.

 

[Cadillac Tech]

Interesting, Bruce. I usually use Maguire's vinyl cleaner on the interior panels...I've never heard of using Murphy's oil soap on vinyl, usually use it on wood.

Same here, I think any mild detergent or interior cleaner (which is what I have used) will work.

 

[Lola's Mom]

... The release of this chalky substance is referred to as "Out Gassing" and can occur with plastic and vinyl materials...

Well, if that isn't just SCARY!!! We're breathing what? when are windows are up and the air is circulating????

 

[rwd]

Thanks, Bruce. I was wondering why it was localized primarily on the dash and not all over the interior like a ventilation system issue.

Does the Murphy's close or seal the pores any to reduce future emissions in addition to cleaning?

 

[Cadillac Tech]

Thanks, Bruce. I was wondering why it was localized primarily on the dash and not all over the interior like a ventilation system issue.

Does the Murphy's close or seal the pores any to reduce future emissions in addition to cleaning?

I don't believe it will. Cleaning will remove the residue that is on the surface, but not eliminate it all together.