How to Repair a Scratch in Car Leather

Maintain leather seats by repairing scratches as soon as they appear.

Cars with leather seating have a strong advantage over other fabrics because the overall classic appeal requires less upkeep than other materials. Over time, leather upholstery can get scratched up. When scratches do not get repaired as soon as possible, they can expand and cause a large permanent rip in the upholstery. To avoid replacing leather upholstery, use a leather repair kit to keep leather in tip-top condition.

Things You'll Need

• Leather repair kit
• Toothpicks
• Heat applicator
• Cloth towel

Instructions

1. Purchase a leather repair kit that is the same or similar in hue to the car's upholstery. If you can, bring a swatch of the leather material that is scratched to match the color more effectively.

2. Use a toothpick to spread a moderate amount of leather adhesive over the scratch. Smooth the adhesive evenly on the scratch, making sure to not leave any adhesive on its leather surface.

3. Utilize the heat applicator (most leather repair kits come already equipped with a heat applicator) to bond the adhesive material onto the leather much more securely.

4. Allow the adhesive to cool and dry with a cloth towel before using the car's leather upholstery.

Tips & Warnings

• Use leather dyes in the same manner as you would to correct light scratches on the vehicle's leather upholstery.

References

• Beauty Cosmetic Guide: How to Repair Leather Scratches
• Monster Guide: How to Repair Leather Furniture