Learning Center

Image of a man about to install TigerTough seat covers in a vehicle
Sheldon Zitzmann

How to Install TigerTough Seat Covers and What to Expect

Each TigerTough custom seat cover is shipped with step-by-step color instructions on installing them on the exact vehicle they were specifically designed for. 

So if you ordered seat covers for your 2017 Toyota Tacoma, you’ll get instructions on how to install those covers in a 2017 Toyota Tacoma. Pretty nice, right?

There are covers in the seat cover world that look awful because the installation process is confusing or inadequate. It’s a common problem with seat covers. We addressed this head-on by making installation as straightforward as possible.

And in case you toss your instructions in a moment of confidence and need a few pointers along the way, you’re in luck because we record installation videos for every vehicle

Since each vehicle is different, each seat cover install will be different. 

We’ll walk you through what a typical installation looks like.

Watch the video version

Before you start 

  1. Lift and remove the headrest.
  2. Lean the seat back.
  3. Remove any straps on the underside that hold the carpet up.
  4. If you have a Ford, unclip the plastic connectors under the seat–they might feel like they’re going to break, but they will come off.

Installing the seat bottom cover

  1. Make sure you start with the correct seat cover–passenger and driver’s seats are different, so just look for the tag.
  2. Line the seams up.
  3. Push the top flap of the seat cover between the seat back and the seat bottom.
  4. Take the strings and put one between the seat and the center console and cover and one between the seat cushion and plastic on the door side. These need to go down and under the seat, not straight back and behind the seat.
  5. Tuck the cover between the cushion and the plastic trim around the seat.
  6. Go behind the seat and find the strings you ran through the sides of the seat.
  7. Run them under the seat. Look at your specific instructions to see if you need to run them behind or in front of the seat mounts. 
  8. Pull them as tight as you can.
  9. Find the StringLock.
  10. Run the strings through each side of the StringLock as tight as possible and clamp it (the tighter, the better!).
  11. Run the front seat flaps over any seat-adjusting bar and under the seat.
  12. Pull tight on the front and back flaps and fasten them underneath the seat.

Installing the seatback cover

  1. Make sure the airbag tag is on the door side of the seat.
  2. Slide the cover over the seat.
  3. Press the cover down around the plastic headrest mounts.
  4. Go to the back and tuck the carpet flap up into the seat cover.
  5. Push the front flaps through the seat crease and fasten them on the backside.

Lastly, installing the headrest cover

  1. Put the headrest back in, but don’t put it all the way down.
  2. Take the cover and make sure the long flap is in front.
  3. Tuck the flap to the back and secure it.
  4. You can put the headrest down now if you’d like.

How easy was it?

We’ve installed other seat covers (check out this Carhartt install we did) and must admit that ours take longer. Since our covers come in multiple pieces, you’ll get a better fit, but it will take a little while to get those pieces where you want.

We say to expect to spend up to 45 minutes per seat on installation. 

According to Hunt Tested:

“If you’re looking for a seat cover that you can throw on for the weekends and then take off during the week, this cover is likely not the best choice. While you certainly can remove and reinstall these covers, the process is involved enough that I wouldn’t want to do it frequently. To get a precision fit, you give up being able to quickly and easily take the covers on and off.”

Wrapping it up

These aren’t the easiest to install, but they’re also not rocket science. If you’ve ever stepped foot on a job site, you can install these. And we can assure you that every installation step helps give you the best-looking fit on your new seat covers. 

Every vehicle installation is going to vary a bit. But we won’t leave you in the dark. You’ll get detailed instructions, an install video, and you’re always welcome to contact us if you’re stumped. And if you want to skip the installation altogether, check out one of our 850+ dealers.

Removing Crayon from Seat Covers

If you have kids, or spend any time around them, you're probably familiar with the chaos they can bring into your vehicle (and life)—especially when crayons get involved. Removing crayon from seat covers can seem like a daunting task. Here’s a real-life test we conducted to find the best solution.

First, we tried the gentle approach with a wet wipe, hoping for a quick fix. Spoiler alert: it did nothing. Since we're not quitters, we reached for the all-purpose degreaser and started scrubbing. This shifted some of the crayon, but a stubborn stain remained.

It was time to double down. We really put some elbow grease into it, scrubbing hard and then switching to another degreaser. Persistence paid off, and after some more intense scrubbing, the stain finally surrendered.

While it was a tough battle, the crayon was eventually defeated. It’s safe to say that removing crayon stains from seat covers isn’t for the faint of heart, but with the right tools and a lot of scrubbing, you can restore your seat covers to their former glory. Just maybe keep those crayons in a secure spot next time!

Get Seat Covers as Durable as Your Kids

TigerTough seat covers are designed to withstand just about everything you can throw at them. From the daily wear and tear to those particularly challenging messes like crayon stains, our covers are put through rigorous torture tests to ensure they can take it all. And the best part? They come with an unconditional warranty, so you can feel confident that your investment is protected. When the going gets tough, these covers keep going—just toss them in the wash at the end of a rough day, and they’re ready to face whatever comes next. With TigerTough, you’re not just buying a seat cover; you’re equipping your vehicle for life.

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Best Seat Covers for Tractors

We don’t sell tractor seat covers (yet…) but they’re just as useful as work truck seat covers and heavy equipment seat covers.

The tractor or commercial mower seat cover selections are pretty slim. So let’s take a look at the few companies that make seat covers for your tractor.

Tractor Seats

John Deere tractor seat cover in beige on a seat

They say it right there in the name! Tractor Seats specializes in…tractor seats. Hard to beat that! Tractor Seats is owned by K & M Manufacturing Co. (but please don’t ask us what the K or M stands for).

Founded in 1958, K & M Manufacturing Co. began by creating practical toolboxes and steps for farmers. It quickly expanded to include more products such as replacement tractor seats, suspensions, and floor mats. Today, it serves major agricultural brands with over 2,500 custom-built items, operating out of a 72,000-square-foot combined production and warehouse space. 

Here’s what we can say about their tractor seat covers.

Pros

✅ Affordable
✅ 
In-stock inventory

Cons

❌ The seat covers only fit K & M seats
❌ 
Some are just a glorified bag that slides over the seat

Price: $50-$200

Ultra Seat

Ultra Seat black seat cover on a tractor seat

We looked at Ultra Seat when we reviewed heavy equipment seat covers, and we’re pretty familiar with them. Like Tractor Seats, they make aftermarket seats for heavy equipment, tractors, and semi-trucks. They also sell seat parts, such as foam and lumbar kits.

When a company makes seats, they will make a good seat cover…for that seat. The same goes for Ultra Seat. If you have one of their seats or a Grammer seat, one of the three Ultra Seat seat cover options will work well for you. But if you’re still rocking an OEM seat that isn’t made by Grammer, chances are you won’t find a great fit.

Pros

✅ Affordable
✅ 
CORDURA ® options

Cons

❌ Only three seat cover sizes
❌ 
Won’t fit OEM well

Price: $79-176

DuraFit

Durafit blue seat cover on a new holland machine

DuraFit actually makes some of Tractor Seat’s seat covers and we found them when we were looking for seat covers for lawn mowers. They have covers for Kubota, John Deere, Yanmar, New Holland, and universal covers.

Based in Arlington, TX, Durafit Seat Covers is a family-run shop that's been cranking out custom seat covers for over 30 years. They use a combo of CAD techniques and hand-sewn stitching to make their covers tough enough to take whatever you throw at them. 

Pros

✅ Cheapest of the covers
✅ Different material options
✅ 
Fit a variety of OEM seats

Cons

❌ If we’re being picky, their covers are only made from 600-denier fabric
❌ 
Warranty info is unknown, but at $40, you’re not losing much
❌ 
Not all covers are made in the U.S.

Price: $40

Jay’s Equipment Seat Covers

Jay's tractor seat cover

Jay’s is another company we’re familiar with. However, they don’t say much about themselves, so it’s a little difficult to give any background info. 

They make three sizes of seat covers for tractors in two material types–vinyl and canvas. Please don’t get the vinyl unless you’ve really got a thing for swamp@ss. 

We don’t have too much to say about Jay’s except that they’re a decent cover for universal fit and we love that they’re made in the U.S.

Pros

✅ Affordable
✅ 
Made in the U.S.

Cons

❌ Limited styles and sizes

Price: $70-$75

The Pickin’s are Slim

Unfortunately, there aren’t many seat covers available for tractors. But over time, seat covers will save you money so they’re worth investing in. 

If you’re going to purchase tractor seat covers, we suggest avoiding any universal-fit covers. Yes, they cover and protect, but they also fit like a bad suit and you’ll be cursing them after a few weeks.  

And if you want to hold off on seat covers for your tractor until TigerTough releases some in June 2024, we’re okay with that too. Either way, we hope you find a cover you love.

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Common Problems with Seat Covers (and how we solved them)

A lot of seat covers suck.

They fall short on fit, installation, warranty, and wear. We've reviewed some of the top seat cover brands on the market, and even some of those have struggles.

So here are eight roadblocks we hear when it comes to buying seat covers. We've addressed them to eliminate the suckage.

Problem 1: Seat Covers Suck to Install

First off, any seat cover that fits well will take a little time to install. If it just slips on, it will slip right off the first time you sit on it. 

TigerTough Solution:

We’ve worked our tails off to ensure that TigerTough seat covers don’t suck to install. It won’t be a breeze, but we'll make it as easy as possible.

    • Everything is held on the seat with hook and loop fasteners (you may call this VELCRO, but that's a brand name, and we aren't allowed to call it that) except a string that runs under the seat. That’s held together with our patented Stringlock. More on that later.
    • When designing a new seat cover, we also shoot a detailed install video and write up an install guide for that seat. We don’t do generic instructions because vehicles aren’t generic. 
    • TigerTough seat covers aren’t one-piece covers. The back, bottom, and headrest of your seat are all covered with separate covers, so you can work on one section at a time and end up with something that fits properly.
    • There’s a very fine line between seat covers that fit well and feeling like you’re putting five pounds of potatoes in a four-pound sack. We tip-toe right down that line. Johnny Cash would be proud.  

Problem 2: Seat Covers Never Stay In Place

TigerTough Solution:

    • Everything is held on with hook and loop, string, and the Stringlock. None of these have any “give.” Your cover is secure once you’ve snugged everything up, pulled it tight, and slammed it into place. We don’t secure anything with elastic or adjustable clips because elastic stretches as soon as you put pressure on it, and adjustable clips tend to self-adjust over time.
    • This is another reason for the three-piece cover. When you can completely wrap the seat back, bottom, and headrest separately, the seat cover conforms to the seat's shape and has no room to move.
    • Everything is fully wrapped. Rather than run straps under the seat where you can’t see them, we run the cover all the way under the seat and connect it together in the back. Some seat covers are like aprons. Ours is like a pair of trusty coveralls. Which would you prefer on the job?
    • Stretchy fabric is notorious for moving around. Since TigerTough seat covers are made from tough, tightly woven fabric, there is no stretch at all.  

Problem 3: Seat Covers Never Fit Right

TigerTough Solution:

Every TigerTough seat cover is designed specifically for one seat style or one vehicle.

Here’s how the process works:

  1. We get the seat into our factory for the most accurate measurements.
  2. Our design team spends 2-3 days designing a cover that matches the seat exactly.
  3. We install the cover, taking detailed install photos and videos so you can see precisely how it goes when installing it.

    If you’re hesitant to use seat covers based on past experiences with covers that fit like socks on a rooster, you have every right to be!  

    No seat cover we make is designed from pictures or manufacturer specs. It’s all done the hard way, by hand, using the seats they'll cover.

    Problem 4: They’re Unsafe

    Okay, some seat covers aren't safe. Or hey, maybe safety never even crossed your mind. We actually reviewed a very popular seat cover brand that isn't considered safe when it comes to airbag deployment. You might also be think it's not safe to use them with heated seats.

    TigerTough Solution:

    Any TigerTough seat cover designed for seats with airbags built into them is designed to tear open exactly as the factory seat does if the airbag deploys.

    A third-party lab independently tests our designs to ensure they work just as they should.

    As for the whole heated seat thing, most covers are safe for heated seats. There will be some that perform better than others though.

    Problem 5: They’re Ugly

    Well, this is pretty subjective. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right?

    Seat covers have come a long way, though, and you can likely find a cover in a style that suits you. Whether you want something tough, floral, camo, or fluffy. Heck, even Carhartt has covers.

    TigerTough Solution:

    We design for performance first, not looks. You won’t find bright colors, elaborate patterns, or luxury quilting on any of our seat covers. 

    The fanciest we get is camo covers and custom embroidery.

    We skip the decorative stitching so the covers are as tough as possible and look a little plainer than the factory seats.

    If you want something that looks like a custom interior, you may not love our covers. If you’re looking for something that’ll keep your seats in good shape for as long as you own the truck, you’ll think they’re perfect.

    Problem 6: They Wear Out

    Remember the cheap parts store ones that we talked about? Those do wear out. We've even seen Carhartt wear out.

    If you’re going to spend good money on seat covers to keep your seats looking good, you’re kinda getting the short straw if they’re made from cheap, stretchy fabric that wears out in a few months. Leave that material for yoga pants, not your truck.

    TigerTough Solution:

    You can be confident that your TigerTough covers aren’t going to give up on you. Since they’re designed for work, they’re made from military-grade fabric. The solid colors are made from the strongest fabric, a 1000-denier CORDURA, and the camos are made from almost-as-tough 900-denier polyester.

    They’ve got a two-year unconditional warranty and we really mean unconditional.  If anything wears out or breaks for any reason, we’ll fix or replace it. (But we want to hear how it happened because we know there's a good story behind it.)

    Here’s how a set looks after eight years and 235,000+ miles in a heavy equipment service truck:    

    Used TigerTough seat covers in a truck.
    TigerTough seat covers in a truck after eight years of heavy-duty use.

    Problem 7: They’re Sweaty

    You had pleather seat covers once, didn’t you? Or did you buy some cheap vinyl ones once that gave you flashbacks of your days on a school bus?

    Gross. We don't blame you for wanting to steer clear.

    TigerTough Solution:

    Both of our fabrics are breathable so you won’t have to deal with swamp@** or peeling any bare skin off your seats. These won’t feel any different than your factory seat as far as being breathable or making you sweaty.

    When spending hard-earned cash on your truck, ensure you get breathable seat covers.

    Problem 8: You're Not Sure What to Get

    This is tough. First, we recommended finding the best brand for what you need. 

    TigerTough Solution:

    We’ve designed the lookup on our website to make it easy to find the covers for your vehicle. All you need to know are the following details.

      • The year (2020)
      • The Make (Ford)
      • The Model (F150)
      • The Trim Package (XLT)
      • The Cab Type (SuperCrew)

    Once you punch in all that info, we’ll show you only the seat covers that will fit your truck!  If there could be a couple of different seat configurations in your vehicle, we’ll show you the different options and explain the differences between the two.

    Find the best seat covers for your truck

    If you're still not sold on seat covers, that's okay. But here's our list of things you should consider when shopping around:

      • Multiple-piece covers
      • Waterproof
      • Custom-fit
      • Made in the U.S.A.
      • Airbag-compatible
      • A strong warranty

    Seat covers are an investment, and you want to be sure you're making the smartest choice for your needs.

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    Seat Covers vs. Sandblaster

    We tested our seat covers against a formidable opponent: high-pressure dirt at 110 PSI. The goal was to see how much dirt could penetrate through the covers when subjected to such intense conditions and how well the covers would hold up. We weren't just pushing limits; we were pushing sand and dirt at high speed.

    The result? While the paint and primer were blasted off the steel, all the sand managed to do to the seat cover was leave some light tracks—no penetration, tears, or mess underneath. We wanted to know exactly how much sand would get through the CORDURA®, and the answer was none. Absolute success.

    Our seat covers held up brilliantly, proving that they can handle even the most extreme conditions without breaking a sweat. And we stand by that with an unconditional warranty. So if you're looking for protection that stands up to the challenge, you know our covers are up to the task.

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    Should you get tractor seat covers?

    Keeping your tractor or commercial mower in tip-top shape isn't just good practice—it's essential for getting the job done right and keeping your machine running smoothly season after season. These tough machines take a beating, facing everything from the blazing sun to the grit and grime that comes with the territory. And while it’s crucial to keep their mechanicals running, there's one simple trick to prolonging the life of your tractor that often flies under the radar: taking care of the seat.

    Why bother with a seat cover? Well, like heavy equipment, it's not just about making your machine look sharp. A good seat cover protects it from the elements, preventing the seat from cracking, fading, or getting waterlogged. It’s an easy win to keep your seat as ready for work as you are, and it won't bust your wallet either.

    1. Protects the Seat from Elements

    Out in the field, your seat does more than just play couch to your backside—it goes toe-to-toe with Mother Nature herself. That's why a trusty seat cover can be a real game-changer. Think of it as your seat’s personal bodyguard, warding off the elements:

    • Keeps out the rain and blocks those harsh UV rays like a champ, preventing your seat from fading into a sad, cracked version of its former self.
    • Have you ever felt like you're sitting on a stove when you hop in the cab? With a seat cover, those days are gone. It keeps your seat from turning into a hot seat…literally.
    • Protects your seat from daily wear and tear, keeping it looking as sharp as a freshly mowed lawn.

    2. Cost-Effective Solution

    Let’s talk cash—because nobody likes to spend more than they have to. Adding a seat cover to your tractor isn't just throwing money at another accessory—it's like buying peace of mind for pennies on the dollar:

    Why pay through the nose to replace a beat-up seat when you can protect it from the get-go? Seat covers are the wallet-friendly heroes in this plot, costing a fraction of what you'd cough up for a new seat.

    How much would it save? Well to replace a John Deere 2038R seat, it’ll set you back around $385 without any installation fees. Get yourself a $250 seat cover and you just saved yourself a hundred bucks.

    With the larger tractors, you’re looking at nearly $1800 to replace the seat.

    Think of a seat cover as an insurance policy you don’t have to renew. With one purchase, you're set to save your seat (and your money) from the ravages of sun, rain, and whatever else the great outdoors throws at it.

    But beyond that, your machine looks better, which means that pristine seat will put a few more pennies in your pocket if and when you plan to sell.

    It’s all about those preventative measures to save you in the long run.

    3. Extend Your Tractor's Lifespan and Boost Morale

    Taking care of your tractor or commercial mower's seat might seem like a small play, but it’s got benefits, especially if you’re running a landscaping fleet. Seat covers are not just about preserving the seat itself—they're about preserving your entire operation:

    • A well-protected seat can prevent premature wear and tear that might lead the whole tractor to seem older than it really is. Keeping that seat in prime condition means less chance of other parts giving up the ghost due to neglect. It’s a domino effect; take care of one part, and the rest stays stronger for longer.
    • Let’s face it—no one wants to start their day shifting around on a cracked, sticky, or sun-scorched seat. Comfortable and well-maintained seats boost employee morale and can lead to better care of the equipment. When the crew is happy, they treat their tools with respect—and that means fewer breakdowns, less maintenance cost, and a longer life for your fleet.
    • Investing in seat covers is a master move in the economics of equipment management. It’s a simple measure that prolongs the life of your major investments. This is about saving money in the long run, reducing the need for costly repairs or early replacements.

    So, slap those seat covers on and watch your tractors—and your team—go the extra mile. It’s a win-win for longevity and workplace satisfaction, ensuring your equipment and your people are in it for the long haul.

    4. Easy Maintenance and Cleanliness

    Nobody likes a dirty seat, especially when it's the one you have to park yourself on to get some serious work done. With tractors and commercial mowers, dirt, grime, and grease are just part of the job—but that doesn't mean they have to be part of the seat. Here’s why seat covers are your best friend when it comes to keeping things tidy:

    • Just like your favorite pair of jeans, the best seat covers are the ones you can easily slip off, wash, and slap back on. They make maintaining a clean seat as easy as doing a load of laundry.
    • Let’s talk about materials that shrug off liquids…like sweat. Seat covers crafted from water-resistant or waterproof fabrics won’t absorb your sweat on those hot mowing days. This means no soggy seats, and if you’re running a crew, this means no swapping sweat. (You can also check out antimicrobial seat covers.) Your seat remains ready for action.
    • It’s not just about function—there's pride in a clean machine. A seat cover keeps your rig looking sharp and professional, which is always good for business. Plus, it’s a lot easier to impress your neighbors or clients with equipment that looks well cared for.

    Keeping your tractor clean shouldn’t be a chore, and with the right seat cover, it won’t be. It’s a simple solution that keeps your equipment looking and feeling fresh, making every mow as pleasant as the first.

    The Case for Seat Covers

    Investing in a seat cover for your tractor or mower is smart and straightforward. These covers protect your seat from weather, wear, and dirt, while also keeping it cool and comfortable. Easy to maintain and durable, they enhance your mowing experience and help prolong the life of your equipment.

    Consider this modest investment a practical step towards a better, more efficient lawn care routine. Your machine, your backside, and your wallet will thank you.

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    Seat Covers vs. Fire

    This torture test is brought to you by nothing but curiosity. To be clear, our seat covers are not fireproof, but the idea of setting them on fire seemed like too much fun to pass up. Plus, any excuse to roast marshmallows is a good one in our book!

    P.S. Don’t try this at home.

    Setting the Scene

    We decided to test the limits of CORUDRA® by introducing it to a controlled fire—not just for the sake of science, but for the sheer joy of it. And yes, marshmallows were involved, because if you're going to play with fire, why not make it tasty?

    Unlike other torture tests, this one wasn't done in the cab of one of our trucks (for obvious reasons). We had a standalone seat we tried it on, in an area that wasn't at risk for burning up.

    The Test Begins

    With an extinguisher nearby, we set up a small fire on the seat.

    As the flames licked the edges of our non-fireproof seat cover, the anticipation grew. Was it going to ignite? How would it handle the heat? Between checking the materials and flipping marshmallows, it was an experiment filled with a lot fun.

    Assessing the Damage

    After a while, we put out the fire to check the damage. Surprisingly, aside from a couple of little singe marks, the damage was minimal. It turns out these materials might not be fireproof, but they sure are tough to ignite—a reassuring discovery for anyone worried about their accidental flammability. And the seat underneath? That one was just fine.

    Conclusion

    So, what did we learn from our fiery marshmallow roast? First, these non-fireproof materials can handle quite a bit before showing signs of distress. Second, science experiments are more fun with marshmallows. While we definitely don't recommend trying this at home without proper safety measures, it's good to know that a little heat isn't going to cause immediate disaster.

    And if you are looking for fireproof seat covers, we would recommend taking a look at Wet Okole for your truck. They’re not our favorite seat cover, but they do a good job of protecting seats and they’ve got a loyal fanbase. But if you're not planning to have fires in your cab anytime soon, TigerTough should be just fine.

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    Seat Covers vs. Paint

    It's not something you typically plan for, and honestly, it's hard to imagine why you'd ever need to do this, but let's talk about dealing with a sudden paint spill while in transit. Yes, it sounds like a scene straight out of a slapstick comedy, but if you ever find yourself in this sticky situation, here’s how you can manage it without turning your vehicle into abstract art.

    Expect the Unexpected

    First things first: You’ll unlikely ever need to clean up paint from your vehicle’s interior if you aren’t a professional painter. But, hey, life is full of surprises; sometimes, those surprises come in colorful, liquid form. If your paint cans decide to go rogue and burst open, knowing what to do next can save you a lot of hassle—and cleaning bills.

    So here’s how we cleaned it up in another one of our torture tests.

    Essential Supplies and Process

    Get lots of paper towels. More than you think you'll need. Paper towels will be your first line of defense, helping to soak up the spill before it spreads too far and dries.

    Then grab your favorite multipurpose vehicle cleaner. Ours was the cheapest one in the Walmart auto-detailing aisle.

    1. Soak up as much of the paint as possible with the paper towels.
    2. Spray the seat with a multipurpose cleaner.
    3. Continue wiping up the mess with paper towels.

    After using paper towels to remove as much paint as possible, we tackled the remaining mess with an all-purpose auto interior cleaner we picked up from Walmart. This step was crucial in removing any residual paint and making sure our vehicle's interior was clean and free from any lingering odors or stickiness.

    Wrapping Up

    Once you've managed the immediate crisis, take a moment. It's all good—really. A paint spill in transit isn’t the end of the world, though it might feel like it in the moment. Clean up as best as you can, and toss those covers in the wash. In the meantime, keep those windows down to air out any lingering fumes.

    And if you don’t have seat covers protecting your seats from paint, grease, tar, or other disasters inside your cab, now’s the time to grab some.
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