Seat covers in vinyl and leather are stocked in a wide choice of colours with coloured-piping options, fitted over the original seat upholstery to preserve the original material from the wear, dirt and accidental damage that everyday use causes. For owners with original or freshly-restored seat upholstery, particularly leather upholstery on MGC and MGB GT V8 applications, seat covers provide a practical means of using the car regularly without committing to the gradual wear and stain accumulation that the original material would otherwise see. The covers are removed periodically for cleaning and reveal the original upholstery underneath in pristine condition.
Cotton and Canvas Covers
Cotton and canvas seat covers are the traditional pattern, light fabric covers that fit over the seat shape with elastic edges that grip underneath the seat squab and back rest. The fabric construction is breathable (the occupant doesn't suffer the hot-and-sticky behaviour that some synthetic covers cause), absorbent (sweat and minor moisture is absorbed by the cover rather than transferring to the upholstery underneath), and easily washable (the cover can be removed and machine-washed with normal household detergents). The natural-fibre construction is appropriate for classic cars where the visual character of the cover should be in keeping with the period of the car. Cotton covers are typically supplied in plain colours (black, navy, charcoal, beige) appropriate to most classic-MG interior schemes.
Modern Synthetic Covers
Vinyl and Leather Covers with Coloured Piping
The principal MGOC range covers vinyl and leather seat covers with coloured-piping detailing, the piping run along the seam between the cover panels gives the cover a finished, period-correct appearance that matches the original upholstery patterns used on factory-trim seats. The vinyl and leather covers are stocked in a wide range of colours appropriate to classic-MG interior schemes, with the piping colour selectable to either match the body colour or contrast with the cover for a more pronounced styling effect. Modern synthetic covers offer alternatives with specific properties suited to different use patterns. Waterproof synthetic covers (typically PVC or polyurethane-coated polyester) protect against significant wet ingress, appropriate for cars used in wet conditions where the passenger or driver may transfer water onto the seat.
Sheepskin-style covers add insulation and comfort across a long drive, particularly valuable in cold conditions where the natural cold of leather upholstery in winter can be uncomfortable. High-grip non-slip covers prevent the cover sliding on the seat surface during cornering, particularly valuable on cars used spiritedly where the driver and passenger may shift slightly during enthusiastic driving. Each synthetic option has its appropriate application, and the choice depends on the owner's intended use of the car.
Fitting and Care
Seat covers fit over the seat using elastic edges that grip underneath the seat squab and back rest, with appropriate cut-outs for any seat-mounted controls (electric seat adjustment, where fitted on later MG applications) and for the seatbelt anchor points. Fitting is straightforward, the cover is placed over the seat with the elastic edges tucked under the appropriate edges, the elastic does the work of holding the cover in position during normal use. Periodic removal for cleaning is a 5-minute task per seat.
The original upholstery underneath is protected from the wear, dirt and contamination that occupant use causes, the covered seat keeps its visual finish unchanged across many years of use. The technical team is available to advise on the right cover specification for a specific car and intended use.