Car seats are one of the most important components of the vehicle you drive and repair. As an automotive repair specialist, it is your duty to stay current of the automotive seating industry and offer the best automobile seats replacements to your customers.

There are many different types of OEM car seats available from a vast array of automobile seat manufacturers. Auto seats are one of few things your customers can't do without. To offer the best replacement OEM car seats services, you should:

1. Decide on the auto seat services you will offer and the auto seats needed to complete those.

2. Find a reputable automotive seat manufacturer from which to purchase quality materials.

3. Ask for discounts, warranties and solid return policies when working with auto seat manufacturers and distributors.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Decide on the automotive seating services you'll offer

You need to offer the same services most repair shops offer for auto seat repair and custom installation to help you stay competitive. Also, consider offering a little something extra to pull customers from your competitors, like leather car seats or convertible car seats.

I recommend: Superior Touch Restoration, located in Washington state, offers a long list of automotive seat repair and restoration supplies. Check them out to compare services and call for quotes. Offer something extra in the form of seats specially designed for those with lumbar problems. Schukra is a company who specializes in the manufacturing of custom seats for extra lumbar support.

Find a reputable automotive seating supplies company

Automotive seats have specific installation guidelines that must be met and depending on the state in which you are operating, there are certain certifications and skill sets the installers will need at your repair business. This will boost your company's reputation. You should look for the same solid reputation in an auto seat manufacturer and distributor.

I recommend: Wisconsin Foam offers a large supply of car seat materials, including springs, foams and car seat fabrics. They also have project managers to help with project development to make sure you are getting the right materials for the job. Wise Seats Co., Inc. has a selection of industrial truck seats and many other commercial vehicle seats as well.

Ask for discounts, warranties and solid return policies when buying automobile seats

Don't be afraid to ask about discounts, extended warranties and return policies when purchasing car seats. By protecting your business materials, you are also protecting your customers from problems with the materials used in their installation or repair.

I recommend: Suburban Seating, located in New Jersey, has a large selection of truck seats and custom or racing seats. They offer the largest manufacturers, such as National Seating, and have a clearance section on their site. Rostra Precision Controls, Inc. has a selection of heated and other luxury seats offered at a great price and with excellent customer service.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Always warranty your auto seating installation work for a set period of time. This is important to protect both your business and your customers.