Glossary of Seat Covers

Custom Fit seat covers are those that are designed to fit almost as well as the original upholstery in shape, size and visual appearance. These covers are made using automation systems that incorporate computer aided designs as well as computer aided manufacturing techniques which permits every pattern to be customized. And since they are made using the specific make and model specification, it is always ensured that the fit is perfect.

Semi-custom Fit seat covers obviously do not fit as perfectly as Custom Fit covers. Semi-custom fit covers should not be used in vehicles that are equipped with Side Airbag Safety features as they may interfere with its functioning.

Neoprene is a multi-utility synthetic material used mostly in ‘wetsuits’, car fan belts, noise suppression pads, etc that are also being used in seat cover making. It is an extremely water resistant material.

Pelt in upholstery trade usually indicates animal skin that still has the animal hair, wool or fur attached to it. Pelt is often used in seat cover making in place of genuine fur which is far too expensive.

Friction happens due to any chafing or rubbing between two similar or dissimilar materials during movement as a result of which heat is generated. The heat thus created often causes surface deterioration of either one or both the materials. In automobiles, friction takes place when you get in and out of the automobile and the clothing rubs against the seat covering material.

Pink Slip is a Yankee slang that stands for the car registration document or certificate. Usually printed in paper having a pinkish hue is probably the reason for the strange nomenclature. The term is also linked with road racing where the winner grabs the loser’s vehicle as the winning prize. However, the prize would not hold much water if the Pink Slip is not involved with it. Hence the popular slogan, ‘Don’t’ lose your Pink Slip”.

Polyester is a tough synthetic water-resisting fiber much regarded by the disco community during the seventies. However, Polyester is extensively used in car seat cover making.

Universal seat covers will fit any high or low-back bucket seat in any car or SUV of similar dimensions, irrespective of make, model or year of manufacture of the vehicle. However these covers never fit properly and are thus not recommended.