Just last year, Auto Body Specialties began selling custom carpets and truck floor mats. Since then we have seen many customers order these items for both their newer and classic cars. Changing out the carpets and upholstery in your vehicle can be an easy way to increase the vehicle’s value and is a great way to give it an aesthetic face lift. If you decide to take on the task of removing the upholstery on your own, use the tips we’ve provided below to ensure that your vehicle is prepared ahead of time for the upholstery transition. Before checking out the tips, be sure to check out our custom carpets and floor mats.

Make sure there are no leaks.

Check all your lines that move liquid in the car are secure and don’t leak. Your air conditioning line, antifreeze line, water drain tube can all destroy your brand new upholstery. Checking these lines will not only avoid a mess but prevent dangerous spills in the future. Antifreeze can dangerous if touched or inhaled!

Check the weather seals.

Doors, hoods, and trunks all have weather seals to prevent moisture from getting in. You should check them to make sure they all fit and seal properly. If you notice they don’t seal properly or don’t fit before the upholstery is put in, they will likely have to be repaired before the new upholstery is put in.

Take the opportunity to completely clean the car out.

You would be surprised how much dirt and debris can accumulate under car upholstery. Before you complete the upholstery, take the opportunity to vacuum and wipe down the area you would not be able to access without removing the old upholstery. Just be sure the area is completely dry from the cleaner before you allow the application of the new upholstery.

Use personal protection equipment when preparing for the upholstery change.

Doing the actual change out should be left to an expert but if you are going to prepare the car for the change out, you could be exposed to chemicals and debris from removing the old upholstery. You should wear eye protection, gloves, and a respirator. You can never be quite sure what dust and debris could be lurking under the old upholstery.