Share Report

When is The Right Time to Replace Your Trunk Mat?

trunk space

A New Trunk Mat Can Make A Big Difference

We look at signs to keep an eye out for when determining the appropriate moment to make this change!

By The Editors

Fri, Jan 3, 2025 09:48 PM PST

You know that you should change your car oil every 7,500 miles, and your air filter every 12 months. But how do you know that the time has come to replace your trunk mat? Truth is, most people never do, or they replace it once they can no longer stay in the car because of the smell coming from the back.

Trunk mats are one of the most essential yet underappreciated components of your car's interior, protecting its trunk from spills, dirt, wear and tear while upholding its value and cleanliness.

Unfortunately, over time even durable trunk mats may show signs of age which reduces their effectiveness. Knowing when it is necessary for change is key to protecting both cleanliness and value in your car's trunk.

Replace It with an Authentic Trunk Mat

Step one in replacing your trunk mat is selecting an authentic model designed specifically for your vehicle model. Generic mats might seem cheaper but often lack the quality and fit that a genuine trunk mat offers. So, if you’re driving a 2018 Impala, then look for an authentic 2018 Impala trunk mat replacement from a trusted seller on the market.

Original equipment manufacturer mats are made with resilient materials designed to complement and extend the overall design and functionality of your vehicle, and to withstand wear and tear, spills, and harsh weather conditions. By investing in an authentic replacement mat for your trunk you not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but ensure your cargo doesn't shift around too easily when driving - protecting both its integrity and practicality!

Chevy Impala
Chevrolet Impala

By selecting an original trunk mat you are making an intelligent investment while simultaneously improving practicality in a car's trunk space.

Noticeable Wear and Tear

Over time, trunk mats endure considerable wear from heavy items like luggage and groceries, which may result in cracks, holes, or thinned areas indicating wear-and-tear that is no longer providing as much protection for the items in your trunk as it once did. When this occurs it indicates your mat no longer provides adequate safety coverage compared to when first purchased.

Cracked mats expose your trunk's base to damage caused by spills or sharp objects, leading to unsightly stains or scratches that are hard to repair. Furthermore, damaged mats make cleaning your trunk harder as dust and debris gather in its cracks. Should this become an issue it should be replaced in order to restore functionality and hygiene. If these issues arise it's a clear sign your mat needs replacing for both functionality and cleanliness reasons.

Persistent Odors and Stains

If your trunk mat has become the victim of spills, mud, or other contaminants over time, it may develop persistent odors or stains which prove difficult to eliminate even with thorough cleaning efforts. Even after numerous washing sessions may remain visible making your car's trunk appear and smell unsightly.

When a spill occurs, it should be cleaned off as soon as possible to restore them back to looking their best and prevent unpleasant odors from permeating through and ruining the driving experience. A new mat can bring life back into your trunk's look and smell better as a driving experience, providing greater enjoyment on every drive!

Upgrade for Enhanced Features

Consider replacing your trunk mat due to the upgraded options available available. Modern trunk mats feature better functionality and convenience compared to older models; some now include raised edges to contain spills while others come equipped with eco-friendly materials that make maintenance much simpler.

Upgraded trunk mats may come equipped with non-slip surfaces or waterproof features for additional interior protection, making your trunk mat even more adaptable for various needs. Ultimately, upgrading can greatly increase your trunk's functionality allowing more efficient use when needed.

Seasonal and Environmental Considerations

Your trunk mat might need replacing depending on the season or environment you use your car in. Snowy climates make mats vulnerable to road salt damage from road salt sprinkling as they melt on roadsides; hot climates cause certain materials to degrade more rapidly causing warp or degradation faster.

If your trunk contains outdoor gear that tends to cause a mess, such as gardening tools or sports equipment, its mat may deteriorate more quickly over time. As such, replacing it periodically or following prolonged exposure to harsh conditions is key in maintaining both cleanliness and condition in your trunk.

Regular Maintenance Extends Lifespan

Maintaining and replacing a trunk mat over time may become necessary. However, regular care and attention may help lengthen its life span. By cleaning regularly and minimizing weight loads on it, regular care may help delay early wear-and-tear damage to prevent early deterioration; nevertheless, even with all our best intentions we must eventually replace our trunk mat in order to achieve peak performance.

When replacing your trunk mat, be sure to find one that complies with both the needs and usage patterns of your vehicle. By investing in high-quality replacement mats you ensure long-lasting protection for the trunk of your car while decreasing future replacement needs.

Bottom Line

Understanding when it is necessary to change out your trunk mat is critical in maintaining the interior and functionality of your car's trunk. From wear-and-tear indicators, persistent odors, and upgraded features available; several indicators should signal it's time for an upgrade. When investing in a trunk mat, keep these signs and considerations in mind so your car remains in peak condition no matter the challenges it encounters along its journey!

Featured image bt Mike Bird.

Image of the Impala by Robert Balog.

This article was compiled by the editors of LACar.

You Might Also Like These Articles:

porsche taycan at sunset with a camera crew

Taycan Turbo + Super Bowl = ?

leh-keen-porsche-taycan-in-garage

Porsche Taycan Breaks Indoor Speed Record

gymkhana car barely staying on dock while racing

Launch Control: Road to Gymkhana

BMW 2 front with signature BMW grille

BMW 2 Press Launch Lunch-Shoot

Elvis-singing-with-minis-in-background

MINI USA Looking for #MINILoveStories