Is it necessary to install a car dashboard mat?
2 Answers
Pros and cons of installing a car dashboard mat are for self-selection. The dashboard mat, also known as an anti-glare mat, has the advantage of appropriately controlling the temperature of the car's dashboard and reducing the obstruction of vision caused by light while driving. The disadvantage of installing a dashboard mat is the potential safety hazards and cleaning issues, as detailed below: Advantages: In hot environments, the interior of the car can reach high temperatures. To prevent the car's dashboard from being exposed to direct sunlight, installing a dashboard mat can cover the dashboard directly, shielding it from the sun. Disadvantages: The dashboard mat may obstruct the deployment of the car's airbags. The driver's airbag in the steering wheel is not affected, but the passenger airbag is located on the dashboard. If the car is involved in a collision, the passenger airbag may face certain obstacles when deploying, missing the optimal protection time. During emergency braking, the mat on the dashboard may come loose, which can also affect driving safety. After prolonged exposure to high temperatures, the dashboard mat may emit strong odors. If the temperature is too high, it might even stick to the dashboard, requiring time and effort to clean. Over time, the dashboard mat may age and crack.
I installed a dashboard mat mainly for sun protection. After being exposed to the summer sun, the dashboard temperature can reach 70-80 degrees Celsius, and prolonged exposure can cause the plastic to age and crack. I've seen cars without mats develop cracks in just three years. A light-colored reflective mat can lower the temperature by over ten degrees, and your phone won't get too hot to touch when placed on it. Nowadays, many mats come with card slots, doubling as storage areas for tickets and keys, which is quite convenient. However, it's important to choose one specifically molded for your car model; otherwise, it might interfere with airbag deployment or block warning lights, which could be problematic. Also, don't neglect cleaning it, as accumulated dust can damage the dashboard surface over time.
