How Much Does Car Carpet Replacement Cost?

Last Updated on May 19, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Replacing worn, stained, or damaged carpet in your car can completely transform the look and feel of your vehicle’s interior. But how much does it actually cost to replace car carpeting?

How Much Does Car Carpet Replacement Cost?

The average cost to replace car carpets ranges from $500 to $1500, depending on the make and model of your vehicle, whether you use OEM or aftermarket carpet, and whether you do it yourself or have it professionally installed.

While it’s not an insignificant investment, fresh new carpeting can greatly improve your driving experience and increase your car’s resale value. This article will break down the key factors affecting the cost to replace car carpets and provide tips for budgeting this automotive interior upgrade.

The total expense of new carpeting has two main components – materials and labor. OEM carpets specifically designed for your car’s make, model, and year typically cost $200 to $800.

More affordable aftermarket or generic carpets run $100 to $500. Professional installation averages $250 to $500 in labor fees. Opting for DIY carpet replacement can save on labor, but requires more time and elbow grease.

Other considerations like premium carpet padding, sound dampening material, and custom embroidery can also drive up the total project cost.

However, they may be worthwhile upgrades for increased comfort, reduced road noise, and an upscale appearance. With so many variables in play, it’s wise to get quotes from multiple auto upholstery shops and compare complete installed pricing.

Family Handyman states that car carpet replacement usually costs about $200 and takes 3 to 4 hours to complete.

According to the CarParts.com website, carpet replacement kits generally cost $200 to $500, with prices varying based on the vehicle’s make and model.

A Reddit post discusses the cost of replacing the carpet in a 2002 Highlander, with a car repair place quoting approximately $2,000 for the replacement, while the carpet itself costs only a couple of hundred dollars. The post questions the high labor cost.

While it may seem easier to simply cover up worn out carpeting, dingy or damaged carpets detract from your car’s interior ambiance and give an impression of neglect.

Fresh carpeting helps preserve your vehicle’s value, provides a luxurious look and feel underfoot, and reduces noise for a quieter ride. For many drivers, the upgrade cost is money well spent.

Factors Influencing Car Carpet Replacement Cost

Several main factors affect the total expense when replacing your car’s carpeting:

Car Make and Model

The specific car make, model, and year determine the carpet size, shape, and required customizations. More specialized OEM carpets for luxury or performance vehicles have a higher cost than generic carpeting. Mainstream economy car carpets tend to be the most budget-friendly options.

OEM vs Aftermarket Carpet

OEM carpets designed by the vehicle manufacturer provide an exact factory fit with all the proper contours and openings.

However, they’re typically the most expensive option. Aftermarket carpets made by third parties have a more universal fit but usually cost less. You can sometimes find aftermarket carpets tailored to your specific vehicle.

Carpet Material and Quality

Higher quality carpeting lasts longer, offers more cushioning, reduces noise, and looks luxurious. Premium carpet with dense padding and sound insulation costs more upfront but delivers greater long-term durability and performance. Cheaper low-pile carpets show wear sooner.

Color Choices

Custom colors outside the standard carpet palette often cost extra. Make sure any special colors you select complement your car’s interior styling. Black and darker shades tend to hide dirt longer.

Going for the Right Car Carpet

Choosing new carpeting involves finding the best balance of quality, fit, and budget for your needs. Here are some top factors to consider:

• Intended Length of Ownership – Opt for higher-end carpet if you plan to keep the car over 5 years. Cheaper carpet requires replacement sooner.
• Performance Needs – Heavier insulation and padding help reduce noise for road trips.
• Kids/Pets – More durable, stain-resistant carpet is ideal for families. Get color that hides dirt.
• DIY Skills – Aftermarket carpet is cheaper but requires precise self-installation.

Cost-saving tips:

• Buy carpet without pre-installed padding to save on labor.
• Select a darker neutral color like black, charcoal or gray.
• For basic vehicles, consider heavy-duty automotive floor mats instead of full carpet replacement.

Car Carpet Replacement Process

Replacing your vehicle’s carpeting has a straightforward series of steps, whether DIY or professional:

1. Remove the existing carpet – Lift out old carpet and padding.
2. Prep the floor – Thoroughly clean floor and make any rust repairs.
3. Install new padding – Cut carpet padding to fit floor and install.
4. Fit the new carpet – Precisely cut and fit carpet to contours.
5. Secure the carpet – Use a special adheisive and tuck edges into trim.
6. Reinstall trim pieces – Replace any sill plates, screws and trim.

DIY: 1-2 full weekends

Professional: 3-5 hours shop time

Did you read our articles about the price of car headliner repair, car rust repair, and keyed vehicle fix?

While DIY carpet replacement takes more effort, it can save hundreds in labor costs. Seek help for tricky custom fittings. Professionals complete installation much faster.

Conclusion

When budgeting for a car interior makeover, plan for $500 to $1500 to replace carpeting with professional installation. The exact cost depends on your vehicle, carpet selections, and DIY efforts.

While not cheap, new OEM or aftermarket carpeting rejuvenates the look and feel of your car’s interior for greater enjoyment and preserved resale value. Take time to shop around, get quotes, and inspect carpet samples so you invest in the best automotive flooring upgrade for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you fix carpet on a car floor?

To fix loose or bubbled carpet on a car floor, first lift up the carpet to access the underside. Use a utility knife to carefully trim away any excess carpet material that is causing bubbles.

Check the floor for rust and thoroughly clean the surface. Apply a fresh layer of latex carpet adhesive to secure the carpet. Use a roller over the top to flatten any remaining bubbles.

For high-traffic areas that rub and wear down, apply clear silicone caulk around the edges to keep carpet firmly in place. Small tears or holes can be patched with silicone and hot glue.

What is the carpet in a car called?

The carpet that covers the floor of a car’s interior is specifically called automotive carpeting or automotive flooring. It is molded to precisely fit the contours of the vehicle floor pan and cut around pedals and interior trim.

The carpet helps reduce noise, insulates the cabin, and provides an attractive interior surface. High-quality automotive carpet features materials like nylon or polyester and comes with separate padding.

It can be purchased as an OEM part from the car manufacturer or as an aftermarket replacement.

Do you need car carpet?

Car carpet is an important functional and aesthetic element in any vehicle’s interior. Here are some key reasons every car truly needs carpeting installed:

• Noise reduction – Carpet padding absorbs sound for a quieter ride.
• Thermal insulation – Carpets regulate interior temperatures and engine heat.
• Vibration dampening – Carpets dampen vibrations from the road.
• Aesthetic appeal – Carpet provides an attractive, finished look.
• Durability – Carpets protect the sheet metal floor from wear and corrosion.
• Traction – Carpet gives better grip underfoot than bare metal.

So while it may be tempting to simply remove dirty or worn carpeting, there are many benefits to keeping your car properly carpeted. Replacing deteriorated carpeting helps optimize your car’s function and comfort.