Glossary of Seat Covers

Custom Fit
Seat covers that are manufactured in such a way that it fits precisely is known as a ‘custom fit’. These covers are made from the measurements obtained from the exact year, make and model of the automobile, and the data is then fed to the computer for the designing. That is why the fit is always so precise.

Friction 
Friction is a term which used when two objects rub against one another and when either one or both the objects are in motion. This kind of contact releases energy in the form of heat, which causes deterioration of the surface material. In automobiles, friction happens over time with repeated entry and exit.

Neoprene 
Neoprene was originally developed as an alternative to natural rubber mainly because of its oil-resistant properties. But soon it was discovered that this material can be effectively used in limitless number of applications. Neoprene is nowadays used in wet suits, fan belts, noise insulation pads, gaskets, and electrical insulation and also seat covers.

Pelts 
Some animal skins are called pelts. Pelts are those skins which still have the fur, hair or wool still attached to it. Pelts are widely used for seat covers as they do not shed, like other lesser fur seat covers.

Pink Slip 
This is an American slang term that stands for title of a vehicle. DMVs nowadays advise you not to drive with your pink slip in the glove box, just in case your vehicle is ever gets stolen.

Polyester 
Polyester is widely used in various applications chiefly because it is a strong lightweight and water resistant synthetic fiber.

Semi-Custom Fit 
A semi-custom fit means that the seat cover will fit about 80% as well as a full custom fit seat cover. However most Semi-custom seat covers block side impact airbags and other vital safety installations and must never be used in vehicles which have these safety features. These covers are not as good as Custom made seat covers.

Universal Fit 
A Universal seat cover as the name suggests will fit any bucket seat. It won’t give a perfect fit, and so are never recommended. These covers also cannot accommodate the features of the seat.

UV / Ultra Violet 
An ultra Violet ray is an electromagnetic wave of light that is not invisible to the human eye, but is visible to many snakes, birds and insects. The sun emits huge amounts of UV radiation that are mostly filtered out by our atmosphere. Some of the radiation however manages to reach the earth causing harm to our skin and to our upholstery. Prolonged exposure to the Sun’s UV rays are harmful to the interior of the automobile including the upholstery.