How to Replace Car Upholstery
After every day driving and constant use of getting in and out of cars the upholstery can be come worn or torn and need to be replaced. Replacing your car upholstery can give it a new, clean look. Often times you can replace the upholstery yourself as long as you have the right equipment.
Things you'll need:
- Metal cutter
- Flat head and Phillips screwdriver
- Pliers
- Ratchet, extension and sockets
- Hog ring pliers
- Scissors
- Adhesive spray
- Metal hog rings
- Glue
- Take the car seat out of your car by using a ratchet to unbolt the seats. You do not have to do this for all models cars, but this makes it easier to work around the seats if you are able to remove them.
- Look for any buttons that may be located on the headrest or armrests. Pop the buttons off to reveal any hidden screws or bolts that can be unfastened to help you remove the armrest or headrest.
- Remove the old cloth material from the seats. Look for any Velcro, clips or hog rings (look like pig noses rings that may be holding the cloth in place). Remove theses pieces or pop them out of place. Take note of where these fasteners are placed if you are replacing them with the same style upholstery.
- Take out any old padding, if applicable, and replace it with new padding. Use glue, if needed to hold the new padding in place.
- Use clips, Velcro, or hog rings to replace the upholstery on the set and backrest. The fasteners may look different if you are installing a different type of upholstery.
- Use the new upholstery to cover the headrest and armrest. If necessary, reattach them to the seat. Reinstall the seats back in the vehicle.