Keeping your truck pristine protects its value. However, with everyday wear and tear, your truck seats can quickly become worn and stained, no matter how careful you are. That’s why investing in seat covers is a wise choice to protect your truck’s interior. The covers can shield against spills, stains, and even pet hair.
But before you make a purchase, you must know how to measure your truck for seat covers. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a perfect fit every time.
Step 1: Identify Your Truck’s Seat Type
Truck seats aren’t one-size-fits-all, and understanding your seat type is the first step toward accurate measurements. Common truck seat types include the following:
- • bucket seats: single seats, typically found in the front row
- • bench seats: a single, long seat that spans the width of the truck’s cab, common in older trucks or base trims
- • split bench seats: divided bench seats, such as 60/40 or 40/20/40 splits
- • captain’s chairs: bucket seats with integrated features like armrests or consoles
You can typically find this information in your vehicle’s user manual if you need help.
Step 2: Measure the Seat Base
Start by measuring the seat base, the bottom portion of the seat where you sit. You’ll need a flexible tape measure for this step. Starting with the driver’s seat, use your measuring tape to measure the width of the seat base from one side to the other. Then, measure the depth of the seat base, starting from where the backrest meets the seat to the edge.
Remember to write down both measurements.
Example:
- • Width of driver’s seat base = 20 inches
- • Depth of driver’s seat base = 18 inches
For bench seats, measure the entire length of the seat, and note its depth.
Step 3: Measure the Backrest Height and Width
Next, you’ll need to measure the height and width of the backrest. First, measure the height from the point where the backrest meets the seat base to the top of the seat. Then, measure the width across the widest part of the backrest.
If your backrest has built-in features (like a fold-out armrest or pockets), record those details as they’re crucial for custom-fit covers.
Step 4: Measure the Headrests
Most trucks include adjustable or removable headrests. Here’s how to measure:
- 1. Measure its height from top to bottom.
- 2. Measure its length across its widest point from one side to the other.
- 3. Note whether the headrests are adjustable or fixed (this will affect how the covers fit).
Headrests can be tricky, so you may need to measure them a few times to ensure accuracy.
Step 5: Measure the Armrests and Consoles (If Applicable)
If your seats have center armrests, consoles, or cup holders, you’ll need to measure those. Measure the length, width, and height to ensure the seat cover accommodates them. You should also measure the distance between the armrests or consoles if they connect to your seats.
Step 6: Account for Seat Adjustments and Movement
Your truck seats might have features like reclining mechanisms and power adjustments. Here’s how to account for these types of features.
Reclining Seats
If your seats recline, measure the distance from the seat base to the top of the headrest in both the upright and reclined positions. These measurements ensure your cover can accommodate the seat’s full range of motion.
Power-Seating Adjustments
If your truck has power seating, measure the distance from the control panel to the edge of the seat base. You want to guarantee your seat cover doesn’t interfere with the controls.
Step 7: Measure Corners and Contours
Many truck seats have unique corners or contours, especially around the edges of the seat or backrest. These areas can affect how a seat cover fits.
Seat Corners
Pay attention to the corners of both the seat base and backrest. Measure the radius of the corners (the curve where the seat and backrest meet) to ensure the seat cover will conform to the shape without bunching up or shifting.
Contoured Areas
Some seats have specific contours or dips, especially in the lumbar region where extra padding or support is provided. Measure these areas carefully to ensure that the seat cover accommodates the contours without interfering with the seat’s design or comfort.
For more complicated seat shapes, consider taking photos of the seat’s profile. This will help you remember any distinctive features when ordering your covers.
Step 8: Measure for Specific Features
Modern truck interiors often include additional elements that impact fitting seat covers. For example, your seats might have integrated seatbelts, so you’ll need to measure the strap width and position. Or, you could have seats with built-in airbags, meaning you’ll need to verify if the seat covers are airbag-compatible for safety.
Remember to check these features before purchasing your covers to ensure a proper fit that won’t interfere with functionality. Taking precise measurements of these areas guarantees your seat covers will offer full protection.
Step 9: Verify Measurements & Double-Check
It’s always better to measure twice and order once. Cross-check all dimensions by examining your notes. Make sure your measurements reflect accurate numbers without rounding. If a number seems off, take a new measurement and compare. You can also compare your numbers to seating specifications in your truck’s manual.
Think About the Material and Durability
Once you have your measurements, think about the seat cover material. When it comes to keeping your seats safe, the material matters just as much as the fit. The right material will depend on your truck’s usage and the protection you need.
Options like Neoprene are ideal for water resistance, while leather offers a premium, luxurious look. For heavy-duty use, canvas or polyester covers are more durable and resistant to wear.
Shop Smart With Fia
Know that you know how to measure your truck for seat covers, it’s time to start shopping. Fia specializes in high-quality vehicle accessories, including seat covers for SUVs and more. Our airbag-compliant covers feature durable materials and innovations like Super-Grip™ fastening technology. If you’re ready to improve your truck’s interior, browse Fia’s selection of premium seat covers, and discover the perfect match.
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