How to Install an Auto Seat Cover Replacement

The seats in your car can take quite a beating, especially when you’re driving with kids and pets or for long trips. Whether your seats are scuffed, stained or torn, a new seat cover is an inexpensive way to improve the appearance of your interior and slow down depreciation from daily use. Seat covers also provide a layer of protection from UV, salt and water damage. A good fit is essential to ensure they stay in place during normal use. If you’re comfortable working on a small upholstery project, you can install a custom seat cover yourself for an even more cost-effective upgrade to your ride.

Seat covers come in a variety of fabrics and styles, from simulated leather to cotton, and some models include headrest covers as well. The price of a cover depends on the material and style you choose, as well as the size and type of vehicle and the type of closure, such as Velcro or zippers. Many retailers sell packages that contain a front and rear seat cover in your choice of fabric, as well as headrest covers and rubber floor mats.

To install a universal-fit seat cover, locate any included hooks, clips or discs and secure them to the retaining disks that hold the cover in place on the bottom of the seat cushion (Photo 1). If your model has a bib panel, disconnect it from the seat springs by undoing an elastic strap or pulling up on the bib with your fingers. If there is no gap behind the headrest, simply pull down on the back of the seat cushion and lift it up.

A tailored, custom-fit cover is a better option if you want a more precise fit and look to match your original upholstery. The cover should hug the contours of your vehicle’s seat, and it should have extra foam to support you during long drives. You may also find a cover that’s designed to be easier to clean, which can help you keep it looking its best.

Before you install the new cover, check the maker’s directions for cleaning and care. For example, most fabric covers can be machine-washed or soaked in warm soapy water to remove stains. It’s important to rinse and dry the cover after each cleaning to prevent mildew. If you prefer not to use a washing machine, soak the cover in a mixture of warm water and a mild detergent for 15 minutes. Rinse and air dry the cover before using it again.

Once the new cover is in place, put the seat back on the frame and screw its rings in as instructed. Reinstall the headrest if needed. If the new cover has headrest covers, stretch them on and hook the headrest cover onto the headrest headrest buckles. To finish the project, connect any provided seat belts and test the functionality of all seat belt buckles, headrests and latches to make sure they’re working properly.