Reviving the interior of your used Volkswagen Golf (2013–2019) can breathe new life into your driving experience. Whether you're dealing with worn-out seats, faded carpets, or general wear and tear, a comprehensive interior restoration can make your Golf feel brand new. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to restore your Golf's interior, from deep cleaning to installing custom accessories.
1. Deep Cleaning the Interior
Start your restoration with a thorough cleaning:
- Vacuuming: Remove all floor mats and vacuum the carpets and seats to eliminate dirt and debris.
- Upholstery Cleaning: Use a specialized upholstery cleaner or dry foam with a soft brush to clean fabric seats and door linings. VW recommends this method for effective cleaning.
- Dashboard and Trim: Wipe down all plastic and vinyl surfaces with a suitable interior cleaner to remove dust and grime.
2. Restoring or Replacing Seat Covers
Seats are often the most visibly worn parts of a car's interior. Consider these options:
- Custom Seat Covers: Invest in high-quality, custom-fit seat covers designed specifically for the Volkswagen Golf 2013–2019. These covers not only protect your seats but also enhance the interior's appearance.
- Material Choices: Choose from materials like faux leather, neoprene, or breathable fabrics, depending on your comfort and aesthetic preferences.
- Color Options: Select colors that complement your Golf's interior or opt for contrasting shades for a bold look.
For a selection of custom seat covers, visit our Seat Covers Collection.
3. Upgrading Floor Mats
Floor mats protect your car's flooring from dirt, moisture, and wear. Consider the following:
- All-Weather Mats: Durable and easy to clean, these mats are ideal for various climates and conditions.
- Custom Fit: Ensure the mats are tailored to fit the contours of your Golf's floor for maximum coverage and protection.
- Material Options: Choose from rubber, carpet, or hybrid materials based on your needs.
Explore our range of floor mats in the Floor Mats Collection.
4. Refreshing the Headliner
A sagging or stained headliner can detract from your car's interior. To restore it:
- Cleaning: Use a gentle fabric cleaner to remove stains and odors.
- Repairing Sagging Areas: Apply adhesive sprays designed for headliners to reattach any loose fabric.
- Replacement: If the headliner is beyond repair, consider replacing it entirely for a fresh look.
For a visual guide on headliner removal and replacement, watch this headliner removal tutorial.
5. Restoring Interior Trim
Over time, plastic trims can become scratched or faded. Here's how to restore them:
- Cleaning: Use a plastic-safe cleaner to remove dirt and grime.
- Repainting: For severely faded trims, consider repainting them with a plastic-specific paint to restore their original color.
- Protecting: Apply a UV protectant to prevent future fading and damage.
For detailed steps on restoring plastic trims, refer to this interior trim restoration guide.
6. Enhancing the Dashboard and Console
The dashboard and center console are focal points of your car's interior. To enhance them:
- Cleaning: Use a microfiber cloth and appropriate cleaner to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Repairing Scratches: Minor scratches can be treated with plastic polish or trim restorer.
- Adding Accessories: Consider adding custom accessories like dash covers or trim kits to personalize your interior.
7. Installing Interior Accessories
Accessories can add both functionality and style:
- Seat Gap Fillers: Prevent items from falling between seats.
- Sunshades: Protect your dashboard from UV damage and keep the cabin cooler.
- Ambient Lighting: Add LED lighting to footwells or under seats for a modern touch.
Browse our Interior Accessories Collection for more options.
8. Addressing Common Interior Issues
Be aware of these common issues in used Volkswagen Golf models:
- Water Leaks: Check for water accumulation in the footwells, which may indicate door seal issues.
- Blower Motor Problems: If your cabin fan isn't working properly, it may need replacement.
- Squeaky Suspension: Unusual noises may stem from worn suspension components.
For more information on common problems and solutions, visit this comprehensive guide.
FAQ
Q: Can I install seat covers myself?
A: Yes, most custom-fit seat covers come with detailed instructions and can be installed with basic tools.
Q: How often should I clean my Golf's interior to keep it looking fresh?
A: A light cleaning (vacuuming, wiping surfaces) once a week is ideal. Perform a deeper clean with upholstery and carpet treatment once a month or as needed.
Q: What are the best products to restore faded trim and plastics?
A: Look for interior-specific trim restorers with UV protection. Avoid harsh cleaners not intended for automotive use, as they may dry out or discolor plastics.
Q: Are your seat covers compatible with heated seats and airbags?
A: Yes. Our Custom Luxury Leather Seat Covers are fully compatible with heated seats and side airbags for Volkswagen Golf models from 2013–2019.
Q: What’s the easiest way to protect my cargo area from spills or pet hair?
A: Install a Matching Trunk Mat (Full Cover) or the more budget-friendly Base Trunk Mat. Both are waterproof, easy to clean, and custom-fit for your Golf’s trunk space.
Q: Where can I find a full interior bundle for my Golf?
A: For the best value, combine:
These products work together to restore, protect, and upgrade your interior all at once.
Final Thoughts: Bring Your Golf’s Cabin Back to Life
Whether you just picked up a pre-owned Golf or want to refresh your long-time daily driver, restoring the interior is one of the most satisfying upgrades you can make. It improves comfort, increases resale value, and makes driving more enjoyable day after day.
From custom seat covers to waterproof floor mats and cargo liners, Car Mats Customs makes it easy to transform your Golf’s interior with durable, stylish, and functional protection.
Explore our top Volkswagen Golf upgrades:
Want more restoration tips? Check out these helpful reads:
- Interior Upgrade Guide for Used SUVs
- Top Seat Covers for Volkswagen Golf 2013–2019
- How to Clean Your Custom Car Mats
Disclaimer: Volkswagen, Golf, and all related model names are trademarks of their respective owners. Car Mats Customs is not affiliated with or endorsed by any vehicle manufacturer. All references to vehicle models are made solely for the purpose of demonstrating product fitment and compatibility.