Is There A Difference Between OEM And Original Seats? Here’s What To Know

Key Takeaways: 

• Production vs. Installation: OEM and original seats may appear identical, but differ in who made them and when they were installed in the vehicle.
• Material Matters: Leather, vinyl, and cloth are the primary materials, each offering distinct advantages in durability, comfort, and maintenance.
• Smart Replacement Decisions: Identifying whether your seat is OEM or original can help you make better choices for replacements and long-term vehicle upkeep.

 

Understanding the distinction between OEM and original seats is crucial when replacing seats. While both options aim to provide a seamless fit and maintain the vehicle's aesthetic, they differ in manufacturing origin, availability, and installation processes. Recognizing these differences ensures you make informed decisions that align with your vehicle's needs and preferences.

At The Seat Shop, we’ve earned our reputation as the authority in factory-matched replacement seat covers and foam cushions. Since our inception in 2006, we've been committed to delivering OEM-quality products that restore your vehicle's interior to its original condition. Our dedication to precision craftsmanship and customer satisfaction has made us a trusted name in the industry.

In this piece, we will discuss the differences between OEM and original seats and provide insights to help you choose the best option for your vehicle.

 

 

Understanding OEM Seats

OEM stands for “Original Equipment Manufacturer.” In the context of vehicle seats, this means the seat was made by the same manufacturer that produced the parts for the vehicle brand, but not necessarily installed in the factory. These seats are built to match the specifications of the vehicle model they are intended for, offering a close fit in terms of design, material, and quality.

OEM seats are typically made to meet the same standards as those used during initial vehicle assembly, although they might be produced outside the original assembly timeline or location. This means the seats will often look, feel, and function the same as those originally included in the vehicle when new. Because of this consistency and compatibility, OEM options are commonly chosen for replacements.

Don’t settle for mismatched or poorly fitting replacements. The Seat Shop offers OEM seat covers and cushions that match factory specs down to the stitching. Upgrade today and restore your vehicle’s interior the right way.

 

What Does “Original” Mean When Referring To Seats?

“Original” seats refer to the ones that came installed in the vehicle when purchased from the dealership. These are the factory-installed seats, designed and assembled as part of the complete vehicle during production. They are considered the baseline standard for how the vehicle was initially configured.

Original seats are tailored to the vehicle’s make, model, and trim level. Because they come directly from the factory, they may include features or design elements that reflect the specific model year or production batch. Unlike OEM seats, original seats have the distinction of being part of the vehicle from day one, making them unique to the individual unit in some cases.

 

Core Differences Between OEM And Original Seats

While OEM and original seats are often similar in appearance and function, a few essential distinctions set them apart:

 

Manufacturing Timeline

Original seats are assembled and installed during the vehicle’s initial production. OEM seats, on the other hand, are produced by the same manufacturer but may be made after the vehicle’s production or offered as replacement parts.

 

Installation Origin

Original seats are factory-installed, meaning they were part of the completed vehicle when sold. Though they still conform to factory specifications, OEM seats may be installed later, typically during repairs, refurbishments, or upgrades.

 

Availability

Original seats can be difficult to source if you're replacing damaged or worn-out seating. OEM seats are more readily available through parts distributors and are made to fit and function just like the originals.

 

Wear And Condition

Original seats in used vehicles will show signs of use consistent with the vehicle's age and mileage. OEM replacements will typically be new or less used, offering better longevity moving forward.

 

 

How To Tell If Your Seats Are OEM Or Original

Identifying whether your seats are OEM or original often comes down to a few visual and documentation-based clues:

 

Check The Manufacturing Tags

Most seats have tags or labels underneath that include part numbers, dates, or manufacturer names. If the tag aligns with the vehicle’s original build date and specs, it’s likely original. OEM replacements may have similar tags but with different dates or batch codes.

 

Review Vehicle History

Maintenance or repair records might note if seats were replaced. OEM replacements are often documented during insurance claims or service visits.

 

Look For Minor Differences

Even though OEM seats are built to match original specs, subtle differences in stitching patterns, fabric texture, or seat controls might indicate a replacement. These differences won’t affect function but can explain the seat’s origin.

 

Wear Consistency

If the seat’s wear doesn't match the age or condition of the rest of the interior, such as newer-looking materials or less fading, it may be an OEM replacement.

 

Material Options: Leather, Vinyl, And Cloth Explained

Regarding OEM or original seats, the materials used significantly affect comfort, maintenance, and durability. Here’s what to know about the three main types:

• Leather: Often found in higher trim levels, leather provides a smooth and durable surface. When maintained properly, it’s resistant to cracking and wear and offers a firmer feel. Leather can be easier to clean but may require conditioning over time to prevent drying out.
• Vinyl: This synthetic material mimics the look of leather but is generally more affordable and easier to maintain. Vinyl is known for being highly resistant to stains and moisture, making it a practical choice for everyday use. It can feel warmer to the touch in sunlight and may not have the same breathability as leather or cloth.
• Cloth: Typically featured in standard trim levels, cloth offers a soft and breathable experience. It doesn’t get as hot or cold as other materials, but can be more prone to staining. However, many modern cloth seats come treated with stain-resistant coatings, increasing their practicality.

 

Should You Replace Your Seats With OEM Or Original?

Choosing between OEM and original seats depends mainly on your goals – whether you're focused on matching your vehicle's original setup or simply seeking a reliable replacement.

• OEM Seats are a practical choice if you need a new seat that fits correctly and functions as intended. They’re made to match the design and dimensions of the original seats, so installation is straightforward, and the result feels consistent with the rest of the interior.
• Original Seats may appeal more to those who prioritize maintaining factory authenticity. If you’re restoring a vehicle or aiming to preserve its original condition, sourcing a matching original seat, preferably from the same model year, can help retain the original aesthetic.

In most cases, OEM seats offer the most straightforward path forward, especially when an exact match in appearance and function is acceptable. The decision ultimately comes down to availability and the importance of having seats installed at the time of manufacture.

At The Seat Shop, we engineer. Our OEM products are made with precision to align with the original fit, feel, and finish of your vehicle's seats. Trust the team that understands what quality should look and feel like.

 

 

Final Thoughts

OEM vs. original seats serve the same fundamental purpose – delivering comfort and safety while complementing your vehicle’s interior. The best option depends on what matters most to you.

If you value ease of replacement, consistent fit, and availability, OEM seats are the logical choice. They meet the same design standards and offer dependable performance.

If you're more concerned with maintaining factory authenticity – especially for older or collector models – original seats may be worth seeking out, even if they require more effort.

Either way, both seats are built to align with your vehicle’s specifications and interior design, using reliable materials like leather, vinyl, or cloth. Understanding the differences helps you make an informed decision that supports your vehicle’s long-term appearance and functionality.

 

Read Also: 

• The Complete Guide to Auto Interior Restoration: How to Bring Your Vehicle Back to Life
• DIY or Professional? How to Decide If You Should Reupholster Your Vehicle's Seats
• OEM vs. Aftermarket Seat Covers: Which Is Best for Your Vehicle?

 

Frequently Asked Questions About The Difference Between OEM And Original Seats

What does OEM really mean in the automotive seat industry?

OEM in the seat industry refers to seats made by manufacturers who supply parts to vehicle brands. These seats are built to the specifications required but may not have been factory-installed in the original vehicle.

 

Are OEM seats ever better than original seats?

OEM seats can sometimes include updated materials or slight design improvements over the original production batch, especially if developed after initial feedback or part revisions from the manufacturer.

 

Do insurance companies cover OEM seat replacements?

Yes, in many cases, insurance policies will cover OEM replacements when seats are damaged due to accidents, especially if the policy includes OEM parts coverage.

 

Can OEM seats impact the resale value of a vehicle?

Generally, OEM seats maintain resale value well because they meet factory standards. However, some buyers may value factory-original parts more when authenticity is a priority.

 

Are original seats always made by the same company as the OEM?

Often, but not always. Some vehicle brands use multiple suppliers for the same seat models, depending on trim or region, so the “original” seat might have been produced by a vendor different from the aftermarket OEM option.

 

Are seat airbags affected when switching from original to OEM seats?

If the OEM seat is appropriately certified and matched for the vehicle model, airbags should function as intended. Still, professional installation and part matching are crucial for airbag safety systems.

 

Do OEM seats include all hardware and wiring?

Not always. Some OEM seats are sold as shells or base models and may require separate purchases for wiring harnesses, switches, or mounting hardware.

 

Can I mix OEM front seats with original rear seats?

Yes, but be cautious. While dimensions and fit are usually compatible, slight differences in wear, stitching, or fabric tone could make the interior appear mismatched.

 

Is it easy to find OEM seats for older vehicle models?

It depends on the model's popularity and production run. OEM seats for common or recently discontinued vehicles are easier to locate, while rare models may be more complex to match.

 

Are aftermarket seats the same as OEM?

No. Aftermarket seats are produced by third-party brands that are not associated with the original vehicle manufacturer. OEM seats are built by authorized suppliers and meet factory specifications, unlike many aftermarket options.