How to choose and install special car seats
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While custom vehicles typically receive aftermarket additions to improve performance and overall appearance, only a few applications require the addition of aftermarket seats. In some cases, the seats are replaced with something more comfortable. It is quite common to see this in classic cars, but in more modern cars the seats may be replaced with parts from a higher performance version of the same car model.
For example, someone who builds a hot rod might buy a simple padded bench seat, while someone restoring an old Mercedes might replace the bench seats with bucket seats that were available as an option from the factory. In other cases, seats are required for safety reasons. In high-performance vehicles designed for track use, supportive sports seats help keep the driver in place in corners and in crash conditions. In SUVs, shock-absorbing but supportive seats help protect the spine of passengers, keeping them in place even at high angles.
Regardless of the reason, finding the right seats and installing them can be an overwhelming experience for a beginner. Luckily, after a few simple steps, you can get the job done without any hassle.
Part 1 of 3: Determine what you need from new jobs
Step 1: Decide what you will do with your car. Match your interests and lifestyle with your vehicle.
If your car will be driven more on paved roads than on racetracks or trails, then the seats you should be looking for are less extreme and purpose-built, but more comfortable and practical than the alternative. Being honest with yourself in this moment will lead to a better outcome in the long run.
If you're going for an aggressive ride, you should avoid overly soft luxury seats. If you're going to be racing local autocross events and only doing a few track days, then you probably don't need FIA (International Automobile Federation) certified racing seats.
If you are going to be riding circuits that require FIA certified seats, then you will definitely not be as comfortable as with less rigid seats.
Step 2: Determine a reasonable budget. The cost of the seats themselves will exceed the cost of installing them.
The most expensive seats are made from carbon fiber, so someone on a smaller budget might want to look at quality fiberglass seats that will perform similarly.
Step 3: Decide on the number of seats. Decide if you need one, two, or four sports seats when budgeting for a project.
Typically SUVs are the only type that uses four sports seats. Custom upholstery can be expensive, but if the aesthetic effect of your car is important to you, then this may be your only option.
- Functions: Don't skimp on seats; this is the only thing on which all other safety measures in the car depend.
Part 2 of 3: Find the seats you need for your car
Step 1: Determine your needs. With budget and desired usage in mind, determine what you need from your seats.
Having decided on all the important factors when choosing a place, you can take a closer look and decide which places you need. Autocross enthusiasts looking for support without the cost and impracticality of FIA certified seats might consider purchasing something like the NRG FRP-310 which offer a sporty look at a very reasonable price.
There are good non-FIA certified carbon fiber sports seats and Seibon Carbon is a good option for them. For riders on a budget who need their seats to meet FIA standards, the Sparco Universal Sprint is a great entry-level option.
The track-oriented driver on a higher budget can opt for a pair of Bride Zeta seats that combine high levels of comfort with racing pedigree. Off-road enthusiasts will also have plenty of options, but the standard starting point is the Corbeau Baja, which is available in several different trim levels.
These are just a few examples, but there are a number of reputable brands such as Recaro, Bride, Cobra, Sparco and Corbeau that offer reliable and widely available sport seats in every specification imaginable.
Step 2: Find stores near you that sell and install sports seats.. Stores can often give you a better deal because they want you to buy and install seats there.
Stores usually have employees who are knowledgeable about the various aftermarket seat options, so talking to the experts can help you make a decision before buying seats. If you need parts in the future that need to be repaired or modified, it's helpful to build a relationship with a local shop that has already worked on your vehicle.
Step 3: Cover all other interior details.. There are always a lot of things to do when you install non-genuine seats in your car.
Make sure you have all the necessary components so that you don't have to take them apart to install new items all the time. Carpeting may need to be cut to fit new seats. Removing the factory seat usually leaves you with a few extra wires to take care of.
When you prepare your car for racing, you may need to install other items along with the seats, such as a racing wheel or roll cage.
Part 3 of 3: Install the racing seats
Step 1 See if you can install the seats yourself.. Seats that were factory options often replace older seats without much hassle; Installing them yourself will save time and money.
- FunctionsA: If your seats require aftermarket installation, you should have a professional install them in your vehicle.
Step 2: Find local stores that install car seats.. If you bought your seats online or second hand, you need to find stores that can do the installation properly.
Search for stores online and then look for customer reviews of those locations to see what that particular store will look like in general.
If you have a store that looks promising, check it out before taking any action. If everything looks good, tell them that you need to install non-original seats. If their offer fits your budget, then feel free to install the seats.
Installing a secondary seat is an easy way to improve the overall quality and feel of a car, giving it that extra touch it needs. If you have any questions about the process of finding or installing new seats, ask your mechanic for quick and helpful advice.
