Repair 7

How to Repair the Vinyl for Automotive Seats With Color Dye

Almost all automotive upholstery has a surface dye (or "top coat" dye). This layer of dye often wears off over time, leaving white patches where the vinyl gets the most wear. Repaired cracks also usually need to be recolored. Dye colorant is easy to use and repairs blemished areas in 24 hours.

Instructions

1

Clean the vinyl upholstery with a color prep solution and a vinyl upholstery cleaner. This will remove any stains from the vinyl to ensure an evenly-colored repair. Scrub well with a sponge and dry with a lint-free cloth.

2

Patch any cracks or holes using vinyl filler. Most vinyl fillers need to be heat cured. A heat gun, clothes iron, or vinyl heating tool can be used to heat the filler. Most fillers cure at 350 or 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

3

Clean the vinyl once more to remove any residue before applying the dye. Dry well with a lint-free cloth once again.

4

Apply 2 to 4 light coats of dye colorant as needed to cover the damaged area. Allow the dye colorant to dry completely between coats.

5

Apply a leather protectant and then buff the upholstery with a clean cloth once the dye colorant is completely dry. Vinyl is usually ready to buff after 24 hours.