I know this might seem like a small issue, but I can’t get over how easily the plastic on the back of the seats scuffs in my 2024 Santa Fe. We don’t even have anyone sitting in the back often, so I’m not sure what’s causing it. I have a 16-month-old in a rear-facing car seat, and it’s in the middle seat, so it’s definitely not from her kicking the back of the seat. I’ve been noticing it while we travel for Thanksgiving. Anyone else dealing with this or have ideas on how to get rid of it?
I can’t tell from the pictures, but there are two kinds of scuffs. One is when material gets on the plastic and can be wiped off. The other is when the material is actually removed, leaving a permanent mark. For the latter, there’s not much you can do, but prevention is key (kind of like putting a screen protector on your phone). I haven’t seen anyone try this, but here’s a link to some back seat protectors: link. Not sure how well they’d fit on a Santa Fe though.
I know you’re probably careful putting your seat and kiddo in, but from experience, it can be a bit of a messy task at times!
@Reeve
Haha, yeah, loading up for daycare in the mornings is definitely not graceful! You’re probably right though — I’m probably the one making these scuffs without even noticing as I frantically search for another book or toy to distract the little one. I’m usually super careful with all my things… even our trash can is one of those fancy Simplehuman ones, haha! But I guess I’m just disappointed that the seats aren’t tougher. Thanks for the link! I’m going to look into those protectors and see if they might help. Also, rubber floor mats are on my wish list for Christmas, so maybe I’ll add something like this too.
Have you thought about using a clear matte film? It’s kind of like a protective wrap for interiors. It keeps the look but protects the plastic. Here’s an example: link
@Zeke
It kind of reminds me of those plastic covers my grandma used to put on her couches.
@Zeke
I wonder how well that holds up? Have you tried it?
Teo said:
@Zeke
I wonder how well that holds up? Have you tried it?
I haven’t tried it yet, but I plan to once I get delivery. My X3 has similar plastic, and I wish I had done this when I first got it.
@Zeke
I’m curious too — how long does the contact film last? Sounds like a great low-cost option, but I don’t want to be replacing it all the time.
Yep.
It’s so easy to scuff! I swear, I just sneezed and scuffed the seat.
Darcy said:
It’s so easy to scuff! I swear, I just sneezed and scuffed the seat.
That’s how it feels! Just a little bump and it’s done.
I agree! I bought some protectors, and they really do make a difference. They look much better. link
Nori said:
I agree! I bought some protectors, and they really do make a difference. They look much better. link
I came here to say this! Seat covers are a must, especially when you have kids. My 7 and 9-year-olds seem determined to destroy the back of the seats.
All the hard plastic in the Santa Fe seems to scratch easily. I had my last vehicle for 12 years and 250,000 miles, and the interior held up better. My trunk area is already a mess, and I’ve only had this one for 8,000 km. You can get felt covers on eBay for the hard plastic surfaces if you want to cover them up.
Do you take the car seat in and out often? Those things can be a bit awkward, and rubbing against the seats can cause scuffs.
Haha, sounds like you’re wrestling back there.
Wow, were you carrying a lion?
Cai said:
Wow, were you carrying a lion?
Haha, reminds me of the Hangover movie when Mike Tyson’s tiger woke up in the back of that car.
I’ve been really disappointed with how the plastics hold up. I already have scratches around the center console and climate control areas. I’m honestly pretty upset about it. We had a 2010 Tucson, and the interior held up much better.