Common leather seat problems
Leather is durable, but it is not maintenance-free. Sun, heat, cold and years of getting in and out of the vehicle take a toll, and the driver's seat usually shows it first. Mark's Auto Trim repairs leather car seats for customers in Oshawa, Durham Region and the GTA. The problems we are most often asked about include:
- Cracking and creasing, especially on the side bolster where you slide in and out
- Seams that have split or stitching that has worn through
- Tears, holes and worn patches on the seat or backrest
- Dry, faded or stiff leather that has been exposed to sun and heat
- Seats that look tired even though the rest of the interior is in good shape
Repair, replace a section, or re-cover
The right fix depends on how far the damage has gone. A small split seam or a worn spot may be repairable. When the leather has worn through over a large area, replacing the damaged section or re-covering the seat in leather or vinyl can give a cleaner and longer-lasting result than patching. We look at the seat first, explain what we see and talk you through the options before you decide.
If you are thinking about changing the look at the same time, our car seat covers and reupholstery page explains the materials and finishes available. We have access to a wide array of fabrics, including vinyl and leather.
Looking after leather between repairs
A few habits help leather last longer:
- Clean seats regularly with a product made for automotive leather, and avoid harsh household cleaners
- Condition the leather from time to time so it stays supple
- Use a sunshade or park in the shade when you can in summer
- Deal with small splits early, before they spread
Our guide on keeping leather car seats soft and comfortable goes into more detail, and this overview of leather seat repair covers what to ask about repair options and warranties.
What to expect
- Send photos or call us. Tell us the year, make and model and where the damage is.
- We assess the seat. We explain whether repair, a replacement section or re-covering makes the most sense, and provide a quote.
- We complete the work. Our shop is at 712 Wilson Road South, Unit 15, Oshawa, open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- You get your seats back. We let you know when your vehicle is ready.