Thursday, October 18, 2018

Caring for your new Katzkin Leather Interior

You just bought and installed your beautiful new Katzkin Leather Interior from ShopSAR.com, and before you've even had a chance to put away your hog ring pliers you've had your first spill.

Now what?!?!?

Maintaining you Katzkin Leather Upholstery is easy!

Katzkin uses only the finest imported automotive leathers. Each hide receives a special protective treatment during the tanning process, to preserve and protect the grain from dirt and stains that come from everyday use. Maintenance is easy! Just follow these simple cleaning recommendations below. 

Spots & Spills on your Katzkin Leather

Blot excess liquid immediately with a clean absorbent cloth or sponge. If necessary, use clear, lukewarm water and gently wipe spill. If water is used, clean the entire area where the spill occurred. Dry with a clean towel and allow to air dry. Do not dry wet areas with heat dryers, hair dryers, etc. as this will damage the leather. 

For Stubborn Spots & Spills on your Katzkin Leather

Use a mild solution of Ivory® bar soap and clear, lukewarm water. Apply the soap solution to a clean, moist sponge or soft cloth and blot the area. 

Do not apply force or pressure, as the heat and friction of rubbing will damage the leather. Rinse and allow to air dry naturally. 

Do Not Use Saddle soaps, oils, abrasives, cleaners containing detergent (such as dishwashing liquids) Solvent-based cleaners (such as mineral spirits) Varnish or ammonia water or silicone-based products These types of cleaners will cause damage to the protective top coat of the leather and may void your warranty. 

Note regarding Blue Dye Transfer:

Some clothing items (such as darker jeans) contain dyes which may transfer to lighter color upholstery surfaces, including lighter color automotive leathers.  This dye transfer occurs naturally over time and does not reflect a defect in the finish of the leather. If you are concerned about the possibility of blue dye transfer, we recommend that you consider a darker color for your leather interior.

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Monday, October 23, 2017

LiquiCell Seat Inserts for Automobiles

Since we began selling Liquicell gel seat inserts as an option with Katzkin Leather Upholstery Kits around a decade ago, we've been really happy to see so many customers come back to us thrilled with their purchase. These individual thin gel pads (we've heard them compared to thick uncooked chicken cutlets) install between your factory foam and your new leather, acting much in the same way as "Dr. Scholl's" pads do for your feet. They aren't much to look at, but between your reviews and the science, we are sold!


“I am a sales rep who is in the car about 5,000 miles per month. I have had general discomfort and minor pain related to being in the car for long periods of time. I have been using [the] LiquiCell car seat pad for about 4 months. This pad makes sitting for extended periods of time very tolerable. No longer do I feel sore, stiff or fatigued when I get off the road for theday. I do not think I could go back to driving without LiquiCell’s seat pad.” - Kirk Hanson, Manufacturer’s Sales Representative

Using an innovative combination of a low viscosity fluid and strategically placed seal points that control the flow of liquid, LiquiCell reduces discomfort associated with prolonged contact between your body and your car, truck, or SUV seat. By equalizing perpendicular pressure at the point of contact (thus reducing pressure), soft tissue compression is greatly reduced thereby significantly reducing skin friction and soft tissue shear stress. Each LiquiCell pad is specifically designed - thin, light weight and extremely pliable - comprised of two urethane membranes sealed around a low viscosity liquid. Seal points control the flow of liquid to equalize pressure and provide a cushiony lubrication at the point of contact on the body. Under normal usage and operations LiquiCell will not burst or leak unless the outer skin is physically punctured or degraded.


  • Over 150% improvement in circulation
  • Reduces soreness in tailbone & back
  • Sit in comfort everywhere you go
  • Customizable for all vehicle seats and compatible with heated seats
Get more information on our Liquicell Product Page!


Monday, October 2, 2017

New Colors added to latest Katzkin Samples Book

ShopSAR.com is very excited to announce the release of the brand new Katzkin Leather Samples Book. As usual it features all of the different materials from the #1 name in automotive upholstery, but we have some brand new materials and colors added to the lineup!

PREMIUM COLORS:
Cement - a cool grey
Salsa - a fiery red
Hyper Yellow - the brightest yellow in the bunch

SUEDEZKIN COLORS:
Mango - you asked for an orange suede? we give you mango!

EXOTIC COLORS:
Electric Lime and Screaming Green - from neon down to a shade of apple
Camouflage - available in Realtree Wetlands and Woodlands

OUTLAW COLORS:
Outlaw Iron - a great steel colored tooled leather with a western feel

Of course we still have all the great Barracuda and Tuscany colors too, and you can see them all in the Katzkin Samples Book by clicking here!

As always, you get a full credit on your book back when you return it within 90 days!

Katzkin Leather Samples Book





Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Installing Your Wheelskins Leather Steering Wheel Cover

Got 45 minutes and a relatively steady hand?

Then you have what it takes to add the luxurious feel of leather to your steering wheel!!!

Join the thousands of other drivers who have purchased a Wheelskins genuine leather steering wheel wrap and treat yourself! The leather wraps come sized specifically for your vehicle's year make and model for a snug custom fit. In the box you'll find a nylon lacing cord, a needle, and illustrated detailed installation instructions with the cover exactly as you designed it on ShopSAR. The holes are pre-punched on the inside seam with a patented lacing hole reinforcement to prevent tearing during installation. You just sew it right over your wheel. The illustrated Installation Instructions provided with your Wheelskins will show you how to lace around any spokes, or to use dummy stitches at the spokes if they are wider than about 1 ½ inches where they connect to the wheel.

While we're at it, care for your Wheelskins Steering Wheel Cover is pretty important as well...

Your Wheelskin is made of leather that is specifically tanned and finished for this product. It is  recommended that you gently use only water and a soft sponge or paper towel to remove any surface soil buildup. Avoid all purpose cleaners and protectants that will remove the special finishes and coatings on the leather. Most leather cleaners that are made for leather upholstery, which have hard finishes. These cleaners are unsuitable for the softer Wheelskins and should be avoided.

Follow these directions and you'll have a beautifully installed genuine leather steering wheel cover for years to come!



Friday, April 1, 2016

Katzkin Color Samples Available on ShopSAR

While Katzkin updates their official sample books, we are making genuine material swatch samples available on ShopSAR.com. Click here to visit our samples page where you will be able to choose up to ten colors that will be priority mailed to you, along with a color chart of additional options.



Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Why aren't our Car Covers 'Waterproof'?

It seems like that should be an obvious conclusion - that an outdoor can cover should be waterproof. But actually, that would be TERRIBLE for your car, truck, or SUV!



All materials from Coverking, who make our outdoor car covers, are breathable – this allows moisture which is trapped under the car to escape through the cover, preventing a “greenhouse” condition. That's what you would get with waterproof materials - condensation under the cover which may result in damage to your vehicle. That moisture will stay trapped under the cover and cause bacteria to grow more rapidly and eventually lead to oxidation and rust. We're talking about hundreds of dollars to repair.  So beware of covers that claim to be waterproof – a waterproof car cover can damage your vehicle. A car cover should be water resistant, to keep the vehicle from getting wet from dew or moisture, but not waterproof (or rainproof).

CLICK HERE to see our complete line of Car Covers for any situation or location!

Tuesday, March 8, 2016

Katzkin Leather Care and Maintainence

Katzkin Leather Upholstery Kits have received a protective treatment during the tanning process, which will protect the grain from the soiling and staining of everyday use. If necessary, we recommend the following procedures for cleaning:

For Spots and Spills: Blot excess liquid immediately with a clean absorbent cloth or sponge. If necessary, use clear, lukewarm water and gently wipe spill. If water is used, clean the entire area where the spill occurred. Dry with a clean towel and allow to air dry. Do not dry wet areas with heat dryers, hair dryers, etc. as this will damage the leather. 

For Stubborn Spots and Stains: Use a mild solution of Ivory bar soap and clear, lukewarm water. Apply the soap to a clean wet sponge and blot the affected area. Do not apply force or pressure, as the heat and friction of rubbing will damage the leather. Rinse and allow to air dry naturally.

DO NOT USE: Any Saddle soaps, oils, abrasives, cleaners containing detergent (such as dishwashing liquids), solvent-based cleaners (such as mineral spirits), varnish or ammonia water or silicone-based products as these types of cleaners will cause damage to the protective top coat of the leather and may void your warranty. Your leather has already been preserved in the tanning process and needs no maintenance other than the simple cleaning recommended.


We highly recommend using KATZKIN LEATHER LOTION available on ShopSAR.com for regular conditioning of your seats to keep them looking new for years to come! 

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Foose Designed Leather Kits at ShopSAR.com!



ShopSAR.com is proud to present a new line of amazing Katzkin Leather kits personally designed by Chip Foose, the legendary international automotive designer and star of television’s "Overhaulin”.

"I am excited to take my relationship with Katzkin to the next level through our licensing agreement,” said Foose. "Katzkin has the highest quality leathers and their craftsmanship and stitching is outstanding. I’m excited to see my concepts come to life, from my design to your car.”

Chip has designed exclusive Katzkin interiors for several popular models, including the Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Camaro, Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150 and Ford Mustang.

To see if we have a Foose Katzkin kit for your vehicle click here!

Thursday, December 31, 2015

Installing Headrests from your Katzkin Kit

In our latest installation video the ShopSAR restlylers give you some tips for a successful install on some brand new headrest covers which are included as past of a Katzkin Upholstery Kit.



Just remember these three tips if you are tackling this job yourself:


1.       You must compress the foam.
2.       You must firmly grip the new cover in a way that you support and protect the seams as they can easily split and tear during install.

3.       Cover the foam with a thin plastic bag. Two great examples are a dry cleaning bag and the grocery store fruits and veggie bag. 

Watch the video and enjoy your new interior!

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Zkintech - The Newest Look From the Leather Experts at Katzkin

"Consumers have come to expect a full interior transformation, not just leather seating."

Katzkin has met this challenge by taking interior design to the next level. With their new Zkintech series they introduce a new collection of design choices that offer an elegant enhancement of the factory look with tailored stitch lines, all the way to elevated luxury with additional hints of color, texture and detail.



More single tone interiors with tailored details like stitches and perforation. Seats wraps are high contrast to the rest of the interior. More use of seat faces, not inserts or body. Katzkin’s new line of exclusive designs feature tailored stitch and trim options on some of their best selling leather interiors including:


  • Hyundai Sonata
  • Ford Mustang (Coupe and Convertible)
  • Chevrolet Tahoe
  • Chevrolet Silverado
  • Chevrolet Suburban
  • GMC Sierra
  • GMC Yukon
  • Honda Accord Sedan
  • Toyota Tundra Crewmax
  • Ram 1500
  • Jeep Wrangler

These kits may come in several colors designed to compliment the factory interior, but cannoy be customized further (ex. different two-tone combinations, embroideries, etc.) and each style is specific to the vehicle that Katzkin has designed it for. 




Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Automotive Grilles from E&G Classics

American made Chrome grilles, mesh grilles, vertical bar grilles, billet grilles, and their popular Black Ice grilles - for more than 3 decades, E&G Classics has been the leader in automotive aftermarket restyling and the top name in custom grilles. Their grilles and accessories are produced with unparalleled attention to detail using only the highest quality materials.. Combined with ShopSAR.com, a ShopSAR.com is an Authorized E&G Classics Dealerleading authorized E&G Classics dealer with experience installing their grilles in our New York shops, you've got an unbeatable combination.
Each E&G grill is made with the newest technology, contemporary design and the most up to date manufacturing capabilities. No cheap plastic parts or short cuts! Their process has been created some of the highest quality stainless steel grilles on the market, made to prevent corrosion and stay beautiful over the years Whether you have a Cadillac, Ford, Hyundai, or Nissan, their range of custom aftermarket grilles for cars, trucks, and SUVs has no equal! Every grille comes with all necessary hardware and detailed instructions with photos to make installation as easy as possible. Backed by a 3-year, 36,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty, you can be confident your grille is made to last.
ShopSAR.com always keeps a large stock of E&G Classic Grills in our New York and Maryland warehouses, so your free US shipping will be fast as well! And with all out years of experience installing, not just selling E and G, you’re sure to get the help you need getting just the right custom grill for your vehicle!
E&G Classic Grilles at ShopSAR.com

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Ordering Aftermarket Katzkin Leather Upholstery: How to Understand Your Vehicle’s Seats

With thousands of upgrades for car and truck models from more than 50 vehicle manufacturers, from Acura and Audi to Volkswagen and Volvo, Superior Auto Restyling has it all. Few products, however, are more popular with customers than our aftermarket leather interior selections, especially the outstanding leather auto upholstery fabric choices from Katzkin. We've been selling Katzkin leather seats since 1986, when they first hit market.

Now, nearly three decades later, Katzkin has become incredibly well known for the fine quality and remarkably precise fit of their vehicle interiors. In addition to the auto aftermarket market, which, pardon the pun, they have "sewn up," Katzkin also supplies Ford Motor Company with the leather for its vehicles' interiors. In addition, it is the only maker of leather seat accessories tested/approved for use in use in Fiat and Dodge-Chrysler vehicles, such as the Jeep and Dodge Ram trucks.

Monday, October 19, 2015

Katzkin Leather - A Guide to Buy Online at ShopSAR.com

So you have decided to buy a Katzkin upholstery kit online? Whether you are upgrading from cloth seats to leather or replacing an old worn factory leather interior, a Katzkin replacement upholstery kit will dramatically transform your vehicle’s interior. Katzkin kits are manufactured in Montebello, California. Each kit is made to your specifications, and because they are custom ‘made-to-order’, they cannot be canceled, refused or returned . So how do you keep this a positive experience and ensure that you have ordered correctly?

There are two important rules to follow that will insure that you are buying the correct kit:

Rule #1 - Choose the right pattern. Understanding your vehicle’s seat specifications will make this process easier and less confusing when viewing the different pattern choices available online. Carefully look over your front and back seats. Pay attention to headrests, armrests, airbags, seating capacity, consoles, etc. Then compare your vehicle configuration to the available pattern details on the website. Familiarizing yourself with the details of your seats and the terminology will allow you to better understand the available options. But don’t worry, our Katzkin specialists at ShopSAR will email you after an order has been placed online, and before the kit is manufactured. This email will review the details of the seat specifications on your vehicle to ensure that you have ordered the correct pattern.

Rule #2 -  Choose the right colors. ShopSAR provides a reference chart which outlines all of the factory interior color names for most vehicles over the last 10 years and cross references the Katzkin recommended color for that interior. Don’t be fooled – different auto companies have different names for the same color, and similar names for different colors! If you are thinking about two-tone or customizing your kit with exotic materials, we recommend using the Katzkin sample book to make your final decision. With the disparity in monitor settings we know it can be tough to make an important choice like your vehicle's leather color selection by staring at a screen on your computer, smartphone or tablet. A sample swatch book is available from ShopSAR.com. The book contains all of the Katzkin materials and colors, including ‘Suedezkins’ and ‘Exotics’. Using the sample book is the most accurate way to choose your color. The best part is that the full cost, including shipping of the sample book is refunded when you purchase your kit from ShopSAR. And again, don’t worry, our Katzkin specialists at ShopSAR will email you after an order has been placed online but before your kit is manufactured. This email will review your color selections if we see that you didn’t get a sample book or if you have chosen a non-recommended color.

Lastly, you don’t have to order on the computer. If for any reason you are unsure of your vehicle details or the terminology used, not comfortable with ordering online or just want to speak with someone, call us! Everyone has a cell phone and every cell phone has a camera. Take pictures of your front and back seats and email them to us. We will walk you through the process and take your order over the phone. ShopSAR values your business and wants the process of buying a Katzkin kit to be a positive and trouble free experience.


Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Product Spotlight: Painted Body Side Moldings for Cars

There is nothing quite like buying a new car and basking in that new car smell. While today’s cars come equipped with GPS and Bluetooth technology, upgraded safety features and even Internet connectivity, they come with very little in the way of protection from dings and bumps to the doors. Parking lots can be a risk with a new car unless you’ve installed protective car door moldings. Roaming grocery carts are a new car owner’s worst nightmare, but with car trim moldings you can rest easy knowing your car is safe from small dings and scrapes from grocery carts, other cars and anything else that’s waiting around the corner.

Friday, September 4, 2015

Top 5 Aftermarket Accessory Upgrades

Car accessories aren’t just for looks. The best aftermarket car accessories help retain a car’s value and even provide an added incentive for potential buyers when it’s time to sell. Top auto upgrades can even increase the value of your car or truck while protecting it from daily wear and tear. So we’ve chosen the best aftermarket accessories for protecting and adding value to your car or truck.

Friday, August 21, 2015

Katzkin Leather Interiors

Katzkin leather interiors constitute a dramatic upgrade not only in the areas of feel, wear and the possibility of staying cooler, but also as an improvement in style. Katzkin has always been renowned for producing high-quality car leather upholstery, and their leather seats make for spectacular interior styling in cars.

Katzkin has been manufacturing custom leather interiors since 1986, and they have a number of impressive relationships across the automotive industry. These include being the official leather supplier for Ford Motor Company and Shelby American, Inc., as well as being the only tested and approved leather seat accessory for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Fiat cars. Clearly, they are one of the most trusted sources of leather upholstery in the industry, and their quality and performance is unmatched.

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

How to Increase the Value of Your Car

As soon as you drive your brand new car out of the dealership, its value immediately depreciates as much as 20%. And while it can be tempting to pump a lot of money into upgrading your vehicle when you’re preparing to sell, rarely do these customizations actually add to the resale value of your car. It is advisable that you instead focus on your car’s original condition, perform routine maintenance and handle any necessary fixes that might prevent the car from running at the peak of its performance. The brief guide below will outline several ways that you can increase the value of your car when you choose to pass it on to another lucky driver or trade it in for another vehicle.

Know resale values when you buy – If you’re currently shopping around for a newer vehicle and know that you’ll be unloading it after a couple of years, be sure to do your research on the makes and models that hold their value the best. These cars will typically have a history of being durable and reliable, therefore making them more attractive to potential buyers. Makes like Toyota, Honda, Subaru, Lexus and other imported vehicles typically hold their value better than most. Used car pricing websites like Kelley Blue Book are helpful in providing resale estimates, so you can get a better idea before you even buy.