Excuse the prints and light scratches on the surround, but my '05 S2000 has recently developed this... gritty look to the HVAC buttons/rocker. The audio buttons (which I use as frequently or more) are fine. I have not used any kind of cleaner or anything. I just noticed it today, but as nuts as I get when I detail it, I would have noticed it before. I actually felt it before I saw it today. It looks... oxidized? The only thing I could think was oils from my fingers? But why isnt the other side the same? I know the other buttons are in the shade when its park because of the A pillar, etc, and regardless of the suns position the HVAC gets hit, but regardless... here are the pics, you tell me.

Good side:




Yuck side:






My car is still under the OEM warranty and has the Honda care. I wouldn't consider this a "regular wear" item, so you think they'll cover it? Its driving me nuts.

 

THey should cover that under warranty. If not, just get some new switches, 303 them, and you're set.

 

It looks like mouse plaque -- the crud that accumulated on your keyboard and mouse after use without frequent cleanings.

Have you tried scraping it off with your fingernail? Try using a non ammonia based glass cleaner on a paper towel.

It doesn't look like a problem with the plastic.

As for it not being on the radio controls -- I don't have a good answer. Do you use skin lotion? That can accelerate the accumulation of the "plaque."

Hope this helps!

 

It's either damage to the plastic...or added on to the plastic.

If it's damage to the plastic, maybe you are using armour all or some type of shine that is eating the plastic slowly under the heat.

If it's added crud....get some cleaner and clean it off.

 

I tried to finger nail scratch it off when I saw it earlier with no luck. Somethings getting to the plastic. I wonder what is going on. What is involved in changing them?

 

Whoa that looks old and grainy.

 

Maybe you should touch it more. Utilize finger oils to polish it lol.

 

Great, now I noticed today on my 2000 that it's doing the same thing but not quite as bad as yours.

I don't mind though. The damn car is almost 8 years old.

 

I'm going to take it to the Honda dealer and see what they say. 20 bucks says they wont replace it. Are warrantys even good for anything?

 

take the buttons out and polish it with plastic polish