How to Replace Car Carpet

Sometimes carpet in a car can get worn or stained and needs replacing. It is not a difficult job if you follow a few basic instructions.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Remove the Old Carpet

  1. Image titled Replace Car Carpet Step 1
    1
    Take out the front car seats. They are usually held in place by four bolts that you can see from under the car.[1]
  2. Image titled Replace Car Carpet Step 2
    2
    Remove the back seats. They may be held in place by fasteners at the bottom and brackets at the top.[2]
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    3
    Remove the seat belts, which should be held in place by bolts.
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    4
    Remove any other items that will be in the way. This includes the trim and kick panels. Look for everything you can see or feel.
  5. Image titled Replace Car Carpet Step 5
    5
    Pull up the old carpet. Roll it up and be careful with it because you will use it to measure the new carpet.[3]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Install the New Carpet

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    1
    Lay the old carpet on top of the new carpet as a template. Cut the new carpet just a little larger than the old one.[4]
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    2
    Start at the front and lay the carpet in the car. Trim around the edges and cut the holes as you go. The heel pad should be under the brakes and gas pedal.[5]
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    3
    Smooth the carpet from the center out.
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    4
    Reinstall the seats and other items that you took out of the car.
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    5
    Make sure everything is secure and you do not have any bolts left unused.
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Community Q&A

  • Question
    What kind of glue should I be using?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Use a special spray adhesive for interior carpet that is available online or in stores.
  • Question
    Can I use rubber instead of carpet in my Jeep?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    You could, but I'd make sure the rubber wasn't laying right on the metal floor as it would most likely trap moisture and could cause rust.
  • Question
    What about backing/padding/insulation?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    That depends on user preference. I prefer Dynamat Sound Deadener to give the car a more quiet ride.
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Things You’ll Need

  • Carpet cutter
  • Screwdriver
  • Carpet

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References

  1. ↑ http://automotivedetailing.com/assets/articles_htm/removing_seats.htm
  2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCGFc1qeWmo
  3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDTxMkhZdSg
  4. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/automotive/install-new-car-carpet/
  5. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/automotive/install-new-car-carpet/
  6. http://www.metropartsmarket.com/carpet_installation_instructions.html

About This Article

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 139,304 times.
145 votes - 76%
Co-authors: 6
Updated: January 9, 2021
Views: 139,304
Categories: Auto Exterior and Interior Accessories
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