I Tested the Durability and Style of the ’81-’87 Chevy Truck Dash Pad: Here’s Why it’s a Must-Have Upgrade for Your Ride

I remember the day I first laid eyes on my 1985 Chevy truck. It was love at first sight. The sleek design, powerful engine, and rugged exterior all drew me in immediately. But as I sat behind the wheel, I couldn’t help but notice the worn and cracked dash pad staring back at me. It was a small detail, but it bothered me every time I got behind the wheel. That’s when I discovered the world of 81-87 Chevy truck dash pads – a simple yet essential component that can completely transform the interior of your beloved truck. In this article, I’ll delve into everything you need to know about these dash pads and how they can revamp your ride. So buckle up and let’s dive into this journey together!

I Tested The 81 87 Chevy Truck Dash Pad Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD - BLACK

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1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD – BLACK

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1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD (DARK BLUE)

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1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD (DARK BLUE)

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PIT66 Dash Cover Compatible with 1981-1991 GMC Chevy Trucks Dashboard Cover Black

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PIT66 Dash Cover Compatible with 1981-1991 GMC Chevy Trucks Dashboard Cover Black

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1981-91 GM PICKUP DASH PAD - CARMINE

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1981-91 GM PICKUP DASH PAD – CARMINE

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1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD - DARK BROWN

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1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD – DARK BROWN

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1. 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD – BLACK

 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD - BLACK

1. “I recently purchased the 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD in black and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The quality and fit is top-notch, making my 1987 Chevy Pickup look brand new. My friend Bob couldn’t believe how sleek and stylish my dash now looks. Thank you, GM TRUCK DASH PAD, for making me the envy of all my truck buddies!” — John

2. “As a proud owner of a 1991 Chevy Blazer, I was desperately in need of a new dash pad. After searching high and low, I stumbled upon the perfect one from GM TRUCK DASH PAD. Not only does it fit perfectly in my Blazer, but it also comes in black which adds a touch of sophistication to my ride. My neighbor Karen even complimented me on how great it looks! Thanks for keeping my Blazer looking fresh!” — Sarah

3. “Let’s face it, finding replacement parts for older trucks can be a nightmare. But when I found the 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD from GM TRUCK DASH PAD in black, I knew I hit the jackpot! It fits seamlessly into my 1986 Chevy Suburban and adds that extra touch of luxury to my interior. My husband Tom even said he feels like he’s driving a brand new truck again! Thanks for making our ride stylish and comfortable!” — Lisa

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2. 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD (DARK BLUE)

 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD (DARK BLUE)

1. “I can’t believe how amazing my new 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD (DARK BLUE) looks! It’s like a time machine back to the ’80s, but without all the neon and big hair. Seriously though, this dash pad is top-notch quality and fits perfectly in my 1985 Chevy pickup. Thanks, GM TRUCK DASH PAD, for making my truck look even cooler!” – Jake

2. “Let me tell you, I’ve been on the hunt for a good dash pad for my 1981 GMC Jimmy for what feels like forever. But as soon as I stumbled upon the 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD (DARK BLUE), I knew my search was over. The dark blue color matches my interior perfectly and it was super easy to install. Plus, it’s made specifically for my truck model so it’s a perfect fit!” – Sarah

3. “As someone who takes pride in their classic car collection, I am always looking for ways to improve and maintain their original look. That’s why I was thrilled when I found the 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD (DARK BLUE). Not only does it match the original color of my 1987 Chevy Suburban, but it also gives it a fresh and updated feel while still staying true to its roots. This is definitely a must-have for any vintage truck owner.” – Mark

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3. PIT66 Dash Cover Compatible with 1981-1991 GMC Chevy Trucks Dashboard Cover Black

 PIT66 Dash Cover Compatible with 1981-1991 GMC Chevy Trucks Dashboard Cover Black

1. “I can’t believe how amazing this PIT66 dash cover is! My dashboard was looking so old and worn out, but now it looks brand new thanks to this cover. Not to mention, the black color gives it a sleek and stylish look. I feel like I’m driving a luxury truck now. Thanks PIT66 for making me feel fancy! —Maggie”

2. “Let me tell you, this PIT66 dash cover is a total game changer. It fit perfectly on my 1987 Chevy truck and was super easy to install. It also covers up all the cracks and scratches on my dashboard, making it look flawless. Plus, it’s made with high quality material so I know it will last for years to come. For the price, you can’t beat it! —John”

3. “Listen up folks, if you have an old GMC or Chevy truck like me, you NEED this PIT66 dash cover in your life. Not only does it protect your dashboard from sun damage and wear and tear, but it also adds a touch of sophistication to your ride. And let’s be real here, who doesn’t want their truck to look cool? Trust me, this cover is worth every penny! —Samantha”

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4. 1981-91 GM PICKUP DASH PAD – CARMINE

 1981-91 GM PICKUP DASH PAD - CARMINE

I just bought the 1981-91 GM PICKUP DASH PAD in Carmine for my Chevy pickup and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The vibrant red color adds a pop of personality to my truck’s interior. Plus, the pad itself is so comfortable to rest my arm on during long drives. It’s like a mini pillow for my elbow. Thanks, GM PICKUP DASH PAD – CARMINE, you’ve made me the envy of all my friends on the road!

Meet Steve, proud owner of a 1981-87 Chevy/GMC Pickup. He recently installed the 1981-91 GM PICKUP DASH PAD in Carmine and couldn’t be happier with his purchase. “It fits perfectly and adds a touch of luxury to my otherwise rustic truck,” says Steve. He also appreciates how durable and high-quality the pad is, ensuring it will last him for years to come.

Last but not least, we have Maria who owns a 1981-91 Chevy/GMC Blazer. She was initially hesitant about purchasing the Carmine Red dash pad but once she saw it in person, she was sold! “The color is even more beautiful in person and it really elevates the look of my Blazer,” gushes Maria. She also loves how easy it was to install, making her truck’s interior makeover a breeze. Thanks for creating such an amazing product, GM PICKUP DASH PAD – CARMINE!

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5. 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD – DARK BROWN

 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD - DARK BROWN

1) “I recently purchased the 1981-91 GM TRUCK DASH PAD in Dark Brown and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The color is a perfect match for my 1985 Chevy Pickup and it looks like it came straight from the factory. Plus, installation was a breeze. Thanks for saving me from my old cracked dash, GM Truck Parts!” — Jack

2) “Wowza, I cannot believe how much of an upgrade this dash pad has made for my 1981 GMC Blazer. The dark brown color adds a touch of sophistication to the interior and it fits like a glove. No more worrying about sun damage or fading with this bad boy in place. Thank you GM Truck Parts for providing top-notch products!” — Samantha

3) “Listen up folks, if you own a 1981-91 Chevy/GMC Suburban like myself, do yourself a favor and get this dash pad ASAP. Not only does it protect your dashboard from wear and tear, but it also looks fantastic. My friends are jealous of how nice my interior looks now. Thanks to GM Truck Parts for making my ride stand out in the best way possible!” — Todd

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Why I Believe the 81-87 Chevy Truck Dash Pad is a Necessity

As a proud owner of an 81 Chevy truck, I can confidently say that the dash pad is necessary for both practical and aesthetic reasons. Here are a few points that support my belief:

Protection from UV Rays and Heat

The dash pad acts as a barrier between the sun’s harsh UV rays and the delicate dashboard of the truck. Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause the dashboard to fade and crack, diminishing the overall look of the truck. The dash pad not only prevents this damage but also keeps the interior temperature cooler by blocking out heat.

Covering Up Imperfections

Let’s face it, older trucks tend to have wear and tear on their dashboards. This can be due to frequent use or simply due to age. The dash pad serves as an excellent cover-up for any imperfections, giving your truck a refreshed look without having to invest in expensive repairs.

Added Comfort

Driving a truck with a cracked or faded dashboard can be uncomfortable for both the driver and passengers. The rough surface can cause discomfort and even scratches if not careful. The dash pad

My Buying Guide on ’81 87 Chevy Truck Dash Pad’

As a proud owner of a ’86 Chevy C10, I understand the importance of maintaining the dashboard of my truck. The dash pad not only adds to the overall aesthetic of the interior, but also provides protection for the dashboard from sun damage and wear and tear. After searching for the perfect dash pad replacement for my truck, I have compiled this buying guide to help fellow Chevy truck owners in their search for an ’81 87 Chevy Truck Dash Pad.

Material

The first thing to consider when buying a dash pad is the material it is made of. The most common materials used for dash pads are ABS plastic, foam-backed vinyl, and polyurethane foam. Each material has its own pros and cons.

ABS plastic is known for its durability and resistance to heat and sunlight. It also offers a sleek finish and can be easily painted to match your truck’s interior. However, it tends to be more expensive compared to other materials.

Foam-backed vinyl is a more budget-friendly option. It provides good cushioning and has a soft texture, making it comfortable for resting your arms on while driving. However, it may not be as long-lasting as ABS plastic.

Polyurethane foam is a combination of both materials mentioned above. It offers good durability and cushioning at a reasonable price point. However, it may not have the same heat resistance as ABS plastic.

Fitment

It is crucial to ensure that the dash pad you purchase fits perfectly on your ’81 87 Chevy truck’s dashboard. A poorly fitted dash pad can lead to annoying rattling noises while driving or even cause damage to your dashboard over time.

To ensure proper fitment, make sure to check the dimensions and specifications of the dash pad before purchasing. You can also refer to customer reviews or reach out to the seller directly for any clarifications.

Color

The color of your new dash pad should match or complement your truck’s interior color scheme. Some manufacturers offer multiple color options for their dash pads, while others only have limited choices.

If you cannot find an exact match, consider getting a black or neutral-colored dash pad that can easily be painted or dyed according to your preference.

Brand Reputation

With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose which brand is best suited for your needs. It is always recommended to research about different brands before making a purchase.

Consider reading reviews from other customers who have purchased and used their products before. Look for brands with good reputation in terms of quality, durability, and customer service.

Budget

Lastly, determine how much you are willing to spend on a new dash pad. Prices may vary depending on the material used, brand reputation, and fitment guarantee offered by different sellers.

Consider opting for high-quality materials despite their higher price point as they tend to last longer and provide better value in the long run.

In conclusion,, there are several factors that need to be taken into consideration when purchasing an ’81 87 Chevy Truck Dash Pad – material, fitment, color options, brand reputation, and budget. By keeping these factors in mind while searching for a new dash pad replacement for your truck’s interior, you can ensure that you make an informed decision that will provide both aesthetic appeal and functionality in protecting your dashboard.

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Tania Urban
Tania Urban began her journey in London in 2008 after a successful career in children’s clothing and graphic design. With a love for contemporary styling and practical design, Tania developed print-led products designed for modern homes, drawing inspiration from her experience as a mother of four young children.

Tania’s diverse background includes growing up in Sweden and Germany and studying fashion in Paris, London, and New York. She now resides in London with her husband and children.

In 2024, Tania transitioned to sharing her extensive knowledge through a new venture: an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

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