Operating your car with faulty seating can lead to an uncomfortable ride. If you have problems with any of the seats of your car, it is time to investigate the situation and either make the proper repairs or take your car to a professional. According to the Upholstery Supplies Guide, you should figure on spending a couple of hours repairing your seats if they are still in relatively good shape. If your seats haven't stood the test of time, however, expect to spend more time and money, because you'll need to consult a professional upholsterer.
Observe the structure of the seats you're about to rebuild. Take close-up, detailed pictures using a digital camera. Study your pictures carefully.
Separate the seat backs from the bottom tracks using a drill.
Clean any debris off the seat floor. Use a vacuum, broom and dustpan. Check for any weaknesses in the floor of the car. If you find weaknesses, go to a professional to have your floor repaired before continuing this project.
Remove the bracket for the seat back latch. Then drill the top cover apart.
Take apart the old upholstery using a seam ripper and a large pair of scissors. Remove the old underpadding.
Observe your seat springs. If they are simply separated, rework them back into position using your hands. If some of them are badly corroded or rusted, remove and replace them.
Prepare the foam for installation. Layer it for extra padding. As the Grease Girl website says, you should use two layers of thick foam, covering them with a layer of thinner, less dense material. Bond the layers together with upholstery glue.
Install the new foam. For the top of the seat, use the thinner foam; for the bottom cushion, on which you sit, use the thicker kind. Wrap it around the top and sides of your seats as well as in the main padded areas.
Cut a triangular shape out at the top and corners of your seats, using a razor blade. Check your seats for overall smoothness.
Reupholster your car seats using vinyl covers. Slip the cover over the seat. Rub the newly covered seats down with your hands to ensure smoothness. If you feel lumps in the foam, take the covers off and repeat Step 10.
Reinstall your newly fixed seats in your car, using the drill.
