Does anyone have the secret to preserving the lettering and/or symbols on the electric window switches, hatch switch, electric door lock buttons, turn signal lever, etc. etc. etc. I'm redoing my interior and I've bought handful of new buttons and switches but I'm almost afraid to put them on because I know no matter how careful I try to be, the stuff will slowly rub off. (I've already gone through 2 sets of window switches.) What can we do to keep these items looking new? Is there something they can be coated with?

As more and more 3rd Gen parts are discontinued, this could become a problem for many of us in the future. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

 

Aside from clear coating them or 3M clear plastic sticky stuff I think we just have to live with it.

However, for the life of me I can't understand why the window switch letters wear off since they are recessed and not even on the button (on the 85-92 firebird style anyway).

 

 

You could save your lock and window and hatch release buttons with a nice keyless entry system. It is easy to add a relay to pop the hatch, and you can get a window module added to the system that will allow you to crack or fully roll down your windows from the remote. Makes it nice if it starts to sprinkle you can hit the remote and up go the windows.

 

Actually now that you mentiin the lock ones too. I found a solution for that. I got some clear printer paper (sticky stuff), designed the lock and unlock symbols, printed them and stuck them on. They look factory and never wear off as I stuck a second clear sticky piece over the printed one so moisture and oil on your fingers wouldn't affect it. I kept the template to so if it ever did get ratty then I just print a new one!