Cleaning Instrument Panel Cover "Glass"

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InTheBuff

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It seems to me that instrument panel plastic lenses vary in hardness and scratch resistance almost like paints do.

I am having a hard time with most instrument panels. It seems that no matter what I do, I scratch the plastic lens.

I'm looking for as near a foolproof method as possible.

I've used 3M microfibers designed for lens cleaning, and guaranteed not to scratch.
I've used Plexus hoping to buff out some scratches, and it seems to make them worse.
I've even resorted to blowing off the plastic lens with compressed air (canned air) to try and remove any particles that could scratch before cleaning. Every time I seem to leave it worse than it was.

I need help, if you've got a good system and are willing to share.

Thanks!
 
Megs makes a two part system, with a polish and protectant. I equate Plexus to the protectant, but sometimes you need a plastic polish too. Another brand with great plexiglass polishes is Novus.
 
I use the Meguiar products 10 & 17
MEGUIARS #17 & #10 Auto Plastic Cleaner & Plastic Polish: Clean and clarify clear plastic automotive surfaces with meguiars plastic care detailing

and finish up with Meguiars 18
Meguiars #18 Clear Plastic Detailer is a quick spray detailer for clear automotive plastic. Use Meguiars Plastic quick detailer on convertible top

And I always remove the plastic cover to get at all the dirt behind the cover. It's surprising how much dust and even dead bugs can get behind the instrument cluster cover.
 
I normally don't see this problem but when they are shratched up already I use PB Pro Polish with a furniture cleaning microfiber towel and rub until the plastic is free of scratches. I have had to start with SSR 2 and step down to PP on a few that were more heavily scratched. It takes some time but it works well. My DMTs from Poorboy's dont scratch the plastic but I normally clean that lens first or with a clean towel.
 
I simply can't figure out why I am having a hard time with this task. It seems that it should be very easy to find a MF or other "cloth" that won't scratch the surface of this lens. Perhaps there's something to the dust in this area that simply is more abrasive.

Does anyone have a brand of vacuum brush that you trust for pre-cleaning the lens prior to "rubbing" with a cloth and cleaner?
 
Is it hard to pop off the lens on the car and be able to get at it better? I'm sure you'll find the right product but I don't have any suggestion there
 
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