Sort of a long-term project, but the seats on my Miata are getting pretty ratty. I'm trying to decide between spending big to get them recovered, buying cheap(ish) seat covers, buy expensive(ish) seat covers or replacing them entirely. I'd like to stay with stock seats if possible because we do occasionally autocross it, and I don't want to run STR for seats.
So, for the hive:
Any decent seat covers out there? They don't have to be perfect, but I want them to be OEM looking at least on a casual inspection.
What would a realistic budget be to have them recovered at a shop?
Any current sources for QUALITY replacement? Everything I saw on line was about $400 for the pair and most were only marganally better than what I have.
I've just done research on this topic that led me to walk away. Many GRMers were helpful in the extreme (note, I was researching NA M-edition seats. Should still be helpful).
-High end leather $600+ Katzkin Nice, and priced accordingly. With all the options I wanted, pushing a grand.
-Sierra auto tops brand seat covers. Right at $100, excellent value for the money.
-Wet okole Not sure on price, but fit over existing seats. I had these in a work car, and loved them. Water proof, scuba gear material. Seems like I paid $250 for a pair (in a Honda Fit.
I'm sure there are many other options out there.
I have an '01 and went to Leatherseats.com for replacements when my perforated leather started tearing between the holes. They have several grades & styles from vinyl through custom. I went with as close to OEM as possible in color & construction.
Here's a typical spec: https://www.leatherseats.com/shop/leather-interior-kits.html?make=MAZDA&model=MIATA&year=2001
Mine have held up well for ~6 years or so & still look good. They have some plus/minus vs OEM in quality & fitment but are an overall good value that I'd do again.
I dropped them off at a nearby auto upholstery guy with a "no wrinkles" mandate. He obliged but complained about fitment & a few construction details that didn't match the OEM spec. End result was worth the professional installation.
Katzkin is saying not available for my vehicle, but "call if your vehicle is not listed".
I did spec out the leatherseats, and I'd be around $700 with mid-grade materials. Then I'd either have to do the best I could to install them (and potentially feel like I flushed $700) or toss in another $300 (or so) to get them installed. At that point, I'm very close to the $1000/1200 I was quoted to have them re-done at a local upholstery shop (don't know yet if that a good price, middle of the road or a rip off as I just started shopping).
As for the wet okole option, I already know I don't love the look, but it may end up being the most practical.
I've looked at the Sierra option, and kind of feel the same way as the wet okole.
Theres a spacermesh seat cover (coverking?) That ive seen on the nn2 seats. Damn near factory looking!
