How to Put On Back Seat Covers to Keep Them From Wearing Out

Back seats take more abuse than most drivers realize.
Kids, pets, groceries, spills, and constant friction slowly break down the seat material. Over time, even premium leather or fabric starts cracking, fading, and thinning.

That’s where back seat covers make a real difference.

Installing seat covers is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to protect your interior and extend the life of your seats. The good news is—you don’t need professional tools or experience to do it right.

This guide explains how to put on back seat covers correctly, avoid common mistakes, and keep them from shifting, wrinkling, or wearing out prematurely.

Why Back Seat Covers Are Important

Seat covers do more than improve looks. They protect your investment.

Benefits of Back Seat Covers

Benefit	Why It Matters
Protects against wear	Prevents cracking and fabric thinning
Shields from stains	Food, drinks, pet accidents
UV protection	Reduces fading from sunlight
Easy cleaning	Covers are removable and washable
Improves resale value	Preserves original upholstery

Before You Start: What to Check First

Before installing, confirm these details.

Seat Compatibility Checklist

Split bench (60/40 or 50/50)?
Fixed or removable headrests?
Built-in seatbelt guides?
Rear armrest or cup holders?
Child seat anchors (LATCH)?

⚠️ Important:
Always use airbag-compatible seat covers if your vehicle has side airbags in the rear seats.

Tools You May Need

Most installs require only basic items.

Tool	Purpose
Seat covers (rear set)	Main protection
Scissors or utility knife	Small precision cuts
Flashlight	Visibility under seats
Coat hanger or trim tool	Pulling straps
Marker or chalk	Marking cut points

How to Put On Back Seat Covers (Step-by-Step)

Rear seats have two parts:

Backrest
Bottom bench

They must be installed separately for a clean fit.

Part 1: Installing the Backrest Cover

Step 1: Remove Seatbelts From Guides (If Possible)

Some vehicles allow seatbelt removal from guides or plastic loops.
If removable, detach them carefully.

If not removable, you’ll cut small slits later.

Step 2: Remove the Headrests

Most headrests pull straight up.
Others require pressing a release button.

Remove all rear headrests before proceeding.

Step 3: Slide the Cover Over the Backrest

Pull the seat slightly forward
Slide the cover from top to bottom
Align seams carefully

💡 Pro Tip:
Wrinkles mean misalignment. Fix them now—later adjustments are harder.

Step 4: Secure Hooks, Straps, and Velcro

Most covers use:

Elastic straps
Velcro flaps
Hook-and-loop fasteners

Pull straps evenly and do not overtighten.

Step 5: Mark and Cut Headrest Openings

Never cut blindly.

Feel for headrest posts
Mark positions
Cut small vertical slits (¼ inch)

⚠️ Slits should be parallel to the seat, not horizontal.

Step 6: Reinstall Seatbelts

Locate belt exit points
Cut minimal slits
Ensure belts move freely

Seatbelts must never bind or twist.

Step 7: Reinstall Headrests

Slide covers onto headrests
Secure straps
Reinsert headrests firmly

Check movement and alignment.

Part 2: Installing the Bottom Bench Cover

Step 1: Position the Cover

Lay the cover evenly over the seat base.

Align seams and corners.

Step 2: Lift the Bench (If Possible)

Some rear seats lift upward.
This gives better access to straps and hooks.

Step 3: Secure Under-Seat Straps

Pull straps beneath the seat
Attach hooks to metal seat frame
Avoid plastic trim pieces

Step 4: Adjust Tension Evenly

Tighten gradually.
Over-tightening causes wrinkles and discomfort.

Step 5: Final Fit Check

Sit on the seat.
Move side to side.
Adjust if needed.

A good cover should:

Stay in place
Feel smooth
Not shift during entry or exit

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Why It’s a Problem
Cutting holes too early	Misalignment
Over-tightening straps	Wrinkles & tearing
Blocking airbags	Serious safety risk
Ignoring seatbelts	Unsafe and illegal
Buying wrong size	Poor fit & wear

How to Make Seat Covers Last Longer

Vacuum weekly
Wash covers per manufacturer instructions
Avoid sharp objects in back seat
Re-tighten straps every few months
Keep pets on protective liners

How Often Should You Replace Seat Covers?

Usage Type	Replacement Interval
Daily family use	2–3 years
Pet transport	1–2 years
Light use	4–5 years

Quality materials last longer and protect better.

FAQ Section

Do I need to remove the rear seat completely?

No. Most installations are done with seats in place.

Can I install seat covers over leather?

Yes. Seat covers protect leather from cracking and UV damage.

Are universal seat covers safe?

Yes—if labeled airbag compatible.

Should seat covers feel tight?

Snug is good. Over-tight is not.

Can I wash back seat covers?

Most are machine washable. Always check the label.

Final Thoughts

Installing back seat covers isn’t difficult—it just requires patience and proper alignment. When done right, seat covers protect your interior, improve comfort, and save you from costly upholstery repairs.

Take your time.
Follow the steps.
And your back seats will stay clean, protected, and like new for years.