We Know: How to Buy Seat Covers

What are Seat Covers?

Seat covers are used to cover damage to existing seats in an older car, and to protect seats in new cars from fading and wear. They can protect against:

  • wear and tear from use
  • sun damage
  • food and beverage spills
  • pet damage

How Much Should They Cost?

Price is a good indicator of seat cover quality. Manufacturers produce covers at a wide range of pricing to fit your budget and needs. Universal fits are generally the least expensive, but are less durable, tend to shift on the seat and wear out quickly. Worse, they look like inexpensive car seats. Tailored covers are designed to fit your car's model and are a little more expensive, because they are more durable and fit better.


The better materials used with these seat covers include waterproof neoprene, stain-resistant polyesters, cotton, velour, sheepskin and tweed. Custom fits are available from after-market shops you can find online. These are the most expensive, but look and feel the best. Inexpensive seat covers can be under $50, while a custom fit for your entire car will be hundreds.

What Should You Check Before You Buy?

Every car is different. Every model year has a different seat design, including front buckets with low slung or high backs with adjustable, integrated headrests with one or two posts, captain's chair and one-piece or split front or rear benches. Added to these considerations are various locations on the seat where the seat belt comes out. Manual and electrical controls can be mounted on the side at seat level, higher up on the bucket or underneath. Two-door and four-door models have their own seating variations.

Why are Warranties Important?

Make sure to find seat covers that come with a lifetime warranty. Seat covers are under a lot of daily stress. Manufacturer defects, like weak seams or cheap glue, can quickly shorten a cover's lifespan. A warranty protects you in this event and insures that you will not have to buy new seat covers a year from now.



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