Installing seat covers in your car is an excellent way to protect your seats from damage and spills. Whether you have universal or custom-fit covers, the installation process is straightforward and can be completed in about 30 minutes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of installing front and rear seat covers, ensuring a snug fit for a clean and stylish interior.
Table of Contents
1. Front Seat Covers
1.1. Remove Headrests
Take off the headrests from the front seats. Some headrests can be pulled out, while others may have a release button for removal.
1.2. Remove Armrests
If you have armrests, you can also remove them by pulling on them, or, you might have to undo the screw/bolt located inside of the seat. After you are done installing the seat cover, you can place the armrest back in
1.3. Align the Bucket Cover
Align the bucket cover over the seat and slide it down gently. Ensure that any designs on the cover align correctly with the seat’s shape. If your cover has an airbag tag, make sure it is positioned on the same side as the airbag.
1.4. Secure the Backrest Cover
Find the straps located at the center of the cover and slide them through the crevice where the backrest and bottom of the seat meet. Pull the straps to the front from underneath the seat and connect them to the buckles at the front bottom of the seat to tighten and secure the cover.
1.5. Adjust the Base Part
Adjust the cover’s base part to fit the seat’s bottom. Tuck the mesh material into the bottom of the seat using a flat item, like a card, or connect the elastic loops underneath the seat with the provided clips for a secure fit.
1.6. Reinsert Headrests
Reinsert the headrests on the seats. If the backrest cover has hook and loop closures at the top, peel off the cloth attached to them and seal them in place. Slip the headrest covers on the headrests and tighten the elastic straps inside for a secure fit.
1.7. Airbag Warning
Ensure the cover’s airbag tag aligns with the airbag’s location to allow for safe deployment during an accident. Incorrect placement may impede airbag function and compromise safety. Always verify compatibility for your vehicle’s specific airbag configuration.
2. Rear Backrest Cover
2.1. Remove Rear Headrests
Remove the headrests from the rear seats using a similar procedure as for the front seats.
2.2. Fit the Backrest Cover
Find the piece labeled “Bench Backrest” and fit it over the backrest. For split bench seats, the zippers should open from bottom to top. Ensure that seat belts are pulled out to avoid covering them.
2.3. Secure the Backrest Cover
Push the bottom straps through the crevice between the backrest and the bottom of the seat. Buckle the straps from the backside for a secure fit. Tuck in the mesh material on the sides of the seat, or use the provided clips to secure the loops together.
2.4. Reinsert the headrests
Reinsert the headrests on the seats. If the backrest cover has hook and loop closures at the top, peel off the cloth attached to them and seal them in place. Slip the headrest covers on the headrests and tighten the elastic straps inside for a secure fit.
3. Bottom Bench Cover
3.1. Find the Bench Bottom Piece
Locate the piece labeled “Bench Bottom” for the rear seat’s bottom section.
3.2. Place and Fasten the Cover
Place the cover over the bottom seat. If there are zippers, open them from top to bottom. Fasten the straps on the bottom of the seat for a secure fit. Tuck in the mesh cloth underneath the seat or use the clips to secure the loops on the sides for a snug fit.
4. Headrest Adjustment
Make sure everything is aligned correctly before making any cuts.
4.1. Make Headrest Cuts
Once the backrest cover is installed, make two small cuts on the material where the headrests need to go back in. Place the headrests back into the seats and slip the headrest covers on. Fasten the straps on the headrest covers for a secure fit.
5. Seat Belt Adjustment
5.1. Adjust Seat Belt Openings
Ensure that the seatbelts are on top of the covers and not under them. Make small slits on the material that match the location of your seatbelts and seatbelt buckles for easy access.
6. Split Bench (Optional)
6.1. Deal with Split Bench Seats
If your car has a split-folding rear seat, locate the corresponding zipper and unzip it to allow for folding the seat up and down. Use the provided mesh cloths to seal any exposed sides for a clean look.
Conclusion
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily install car seat covers and protect your vehicle’s seats effectively. Whether you’re looking for added comfort or style, properly installed seat covers can enhance your driving experience while preserving your car’s interior. Enjoy your newly upgraded car seats!
Seat Covers FAQs
Whether to put seat covers on car seats depends on your needs. If you want to protect your seats from spills, stains, or wear and tear, then yes, seat covers can be a good option. However, they may alter the original look and feel of your car’s interior.
Expensive car seat covers can be worth it if they offer superior material quality, fit, and durability. However, the value can be subjective depending on individual needs and budget. It’s important to research and compare options to ensure you’re getting good value for your money.
Choosing between leather and cloth seat covers largely depends on personal preference. Leather seat covers are often seen as more luxurious, are easier to clean, and resist staining. Cloth covers, on the other hand, are typically more comfortable in extreme temperatures and can be less expensive, but may be harder to clean.
There are several durable seat cover options available. Neoprene seat covers, made from synthetic rubber, are known for their durability, water resistance, and resistance to fading and tearing. Genuine leather seat covers are also highly durable and can withstand wear and tear, but they may require more maintenance compared to other materials.
Generally, neutral colors like black, gray, or beige are popular choices as they tend to complement various car interiors and are less likely to show dirt and stains. However, it ultimately comes down to your personal style and the desired aesthetic for your car’s interior.
Installing seat covers is actually quite easy. It usually takes about an hour to put seat covers on the front seats and the back bench of a car. Just follow the instructions provided, and you’ll be able to do it without any major problems.
