Are dealer floor mats worth it?

While a lot of vehicles come with factory mats already installed, these mats probably won&#;t meet your expectations.

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This is because most OEM floor mats aren&#;t designed well &#; they are often an afterthought by the vehicle manufacturer.

They are also usually rather expensive, especially when considering the quality you get.

But aftermarket mats are very affordable and they tend to do the job much better.

In most cases, these mats come with high edges, enabling them to work like trays and contain all the dirt. 

If you&#;re already thinking about replacing your factory floor mats, chances are you&#;ll be better off with a solid set of aftermarket liners.

If you need help replacing your factory car floor mats, send us a text at 281-761-.

-Alan

Factory/OEM Floor Mats 

Factory floor mats are also known as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) mats.  These normally come with the vehicle or are sold to you by the dealership, often at a very high markup.

The kind of factory floor mats you get depends on what the dealership or the salesman is offering.  Most often, factory mats are rather generic, not a true custom fit, are of poorer quality, and cost more than aftermarket mats.  

Factory vs Custom Fit Aftermarket Car Liners

Aftermarket car mats are designed and made by companies that specialize in floor liners. They live and breath floor liners, and incorporate customer feedback. To them, floor liners are not just an overpriced upsell.

Most aftermarket car mats have more coverage than factory mats, and simply look better than factory floor mats.

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Why aftermarket floor liners are better 

1. They have better fitment

While OEM floor mats are designed and manufactured by the same manufacturers as the vehicle, they normally come in a universal or semi-universal fit. One thing about universally fitting mats is that they are designed to fit multiple vehicles at once, which will prevent them from having a perfect fit to your specific vehicle.

But aftermarket mats are custom-molded and configured to fit the vehicle&#;s footwell perfectly. Take, for instance, WeatherTech DigitalFit. The floor mat is laser measured and made to follow the contours of the vehicle&#;s floor and have a seamless look.

You can see in the photo above, the floor liner hugs every part of the floor pan, from the bumps to the hump in the middle. Custom fit floor liners will fit your vehicle like a glove, they are specifically designed for your vehicle, not anyone else&#;s.

&#;The MAXpider floor mats and cargo mat fits like a glove. They are easy to take care of and look better than all others I&#;ve seen. PartCatalog was great to deal with and very fast delivery. Very happy with purchase.&#;

-Jeff K., review of 3D MAXpider Kagu Floor Mats

2. They are better quality

The quality of OEM floor mats really depends on what the dealer sells you.  When you buy a vehicle, most dealers try to sell you extra accessories like floor mats, window tint, pinstriping, etc. 

They know you are already spending a lot of money on your vehicle, and are probably willing to spend a few more dollars for extra accessories.

The problem is, usually these floor mats are way overpriced and are a lesser quality than you can get from an aftermarket mat. 

Floor mats are meant to give the dealership extra money, not to give you the best protection.

Aftermarket mats are designed by companies that specialize in floor mats.  The quality is usually significantly better than factory mats, and come with longer warranties.

For weather mats, this can mean that the rubber or plastic will last longer against work boots, harsh winters, etc.

For carpet mats, this usually means that the carpet won&#;t &#;pile&#; and will hold up better against frequent use.

3. They contain messes better

Factory mats usually don&#;t perform as well as aftermarket mats. This is because in most cases they are not engineered with the features like channeling, or raised edges, to contain dirt and provide maximum protection to your carpet. 

Aftermarket liners are specifically engineered the aim of protecting your carpets. They have more advanced surface channels and higher edges that ensure all the messes remain on the floor mat until you intentionally pour them out. 

Most OEM mats have shallow channels and flat edges. Good examples of high-performance aftermarket liners are Husky Liners and WeatherTech Mats.

&#;These floor mats are a perfect match and look excellent in my Tesla Model 3. Having raised edges makes sure any spills or other stuff doesn&#;t go under the mats and protects the car floor too.&#;

-Shail G., review of 3D MAXpider Kagu Floor Mats

4. They are usually cheaper

OEM weather floor mats are usually more expensive than aftermarket floor mats. This isn&#;t easy to notice since the price of the mats are usually rolled into the price of the vehicle.

Aftermarket floor mats come at a much lower price compared to the OE and they offer more protection. 

A good set of front custom floor mats can be found for as low as $84.90, and slightly more for floor liners.

5. They are easier to order

OEM mats are only found in manufacturer&#;s dealership stores. In order to get them, you have to visit the actual dealership, which can be an inconvenience. 

Especially because the finance manager will probably stop to say &#;hi&#; and try to pressure you into a new car!

This is not the case with aftermarket mats. You can purchase these online, in the convenience of your own home, and have them delivered to your doorstep. 

You can find aftermarket mats for both older and newer models unlike OEM which are usually only available for current or new models. 

6. They have better coverage options

Again, aftermarket floor liners beat OEM at this. Most OEM car liners do not have full coverage. Their short edges don&#;t cover the sides of the footwell, leaving them exposed to mud, dust, snow, and liquids. The flat edges also allow the elements to get underneath and this will cause quick wearing out of your carpet. The few that have full coverage usually come at very high prices.

But aftermarket car liners are designed significantly for maximum protection hence their high edges. These cover all the corners and sides of the footwell. Some even go a little bit below the seats and below the pedal. This allows them to offer the most protection against the elements.

7. There is more variety

OEM liners are available in limited varieties. This is why: take the case of Toyota. The only manufacturer of OEM Toyota liners is Toyota itself. 

But, for the aftermarket mats, there are several companies. Just to mention but a few, there are WeatherTech Floor Liners, Husky Liners, MAXpider, Lloyd and so many more. These companies manufacture the floor liners in different designs, finishes, and materials. As a result, you get many options to choose from.

8. They are available in more colors

Just like there are a variety of designs to choose from in aftermarket mats, so are there many colors. Most brands are available in black, gray and tan. Some of our mats, such as Lloyd Northridge come in more than 8 colors.

This allows you to pick the right color option to match other parts of your vehicle&#;s interior.  For example, if you have a black sports car with red interior stitching, you can design a set of black carpet mats with red stitching to match your vehicle.  To design your unique combination, check out the Lloyd Ultimat floor mats.

For more Wholesale Car Seat Floor Mats Supplierinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Most OEM car liners are only made in two color options, that is black and grey. Very few go beyond that and this limits your options.

&#;Awesome looking and custom fit mats. Embroidery color matches my seat belts and really accents the charcoal interior. Thanks!&#;

-Terry S., review of Lloyd Ultimat Carpet Floor Mats

9. They stay in place better

Both OEM and aftermarket car mats have retention systems but aftermarket manufacturers often go the extra mile to make the back of the mats non-skid, keeping them more in place. 

This can include &#;nibs&#; that further anchor the mats in, or a velcro-like bottom.

In a nutshell, aftermarket mats offer more benefits and they are your best chance at keeping your carpet clean and in perfect condition.

Our top picks for best aftermarket floor mats

Where do I buy dealer mats?

To buy dealer mats, you will need to go into your local car dealership or call them. For most people, walking into a car dealership is stressful and annoying, because the sales people will constantly try to upsell you.

Which are better, factory or aftermarket car mats?

Aftermarket floor mats are better than factory mats in nearly all circumstances. Aftermarket mats normally have better coverage, come at a cheaper price, fit better, and just look better than factory mats.

Why are factory mats usually so bad?

Factory mats are usually bad because they are an afterthought, and just another upsell the dealership tries to sell you on. Their goal is to first sell you a car, then sell you on overpriced accessories and add-ons to get more money out of you. This is why it&#;s better to purchase aftermarket floor mats, as they are usually much higher quality and better priced.

Last Updated on March 13,

When you enter a car dealership, you&#;re greeted with the enticing aroma of new cars, the sparkle of polished surfaces, and the promise of a smooth, comfortable ride. As you slide into the driver&#;s seat and settle in, you may notice the floor mats missing. It&#;s a common practice for car dealers to remove floor mats before showcasing their vehicles. But why do they do it? What&#;s the reasoning behind this seemingly puzzling ritual?

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of car dealerships and the intricate details of why they remove floor mats. We&#;ll explore the practical and strategic reasons behind this practice, offering valuable insights for car dealers and prospective buyers.

Understanding the Importance of Floor Mats

Before we unravel the mystery behind their removal, let&#;s first acknowledge the significance of floor mats in a vehicle. Floor mats are not just simple pieces of fabric or rubber placed on the car&#;s floor; they serve several essential purposes:

1. Protection: Floor mats protect the vehicle&#;s carpeting from dirt, moisture, and wear and tear. They are a barrier between your shoes and the car&#;s delicate interior.
2. Cleanliness: By trapping dirt, debris, and liquids, floor mats help maintain a clean and hygienic interior. This is particularly crucial if you frequently have passengers, including children or pets.
3. Aesthetics: Floor mats contribute to the overall aesthetics of the car&#;s interior. They come in various styles, colors, and materials, allowing car owners to personalize their vehicles.
4. Resale Value: Well-maintained floor mats can positively impact a car&#;s resale value. A clean and well-kept interior is more appealing to potential buyers.

Given these benefits, it&#;s reasonable for car buyers to expect floor mats when they step into a new vehicle at a dealership. However, the reality often differs.

The Puzzling Practice of Floor Mat Removal

1. Aesthetic Presentation

One of the primary reasons car dealers remove floor mats is to enhance the aesthetic presentation of the vehicles. Walking into a showroom, you&#;re greeted with pristine, spotless cars designed to capture your attention and imagination. No matter how stylish, floor mats can disrupt this visual harmony.

Car dealers understand the importance of creating a showroom experience that makes a lasting impression on potential buyers. They meticulously prepare their vehicles for display, paying attention to every detail, including the absence of floor mats. This allows potential buyers to see the unblemished beauty of the car&#;s interior, emphasizing its cleanliness and elegance.

2. Preventing Wear and Tear

While floor mats are excellent at protecting the car&#;s carpeting from daily wear and tear, they are not invulnerable. Constant foot traffic, test drives, and handling by prospective buyers can lead to premature wear and staining of floor mats. This can be particularly evident in high-traffic areas like the driver&#;s side.

By removing floor mats, car dealers can extend their lifespan and preserve their quality for the long term. This ensures that the floor mats remain in top condition for as long as possible, even if they are eventually included with the vehicle sale.

3. Hygiene and Maintenance

Maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of showroom vehicles is paramount for car dealerships. As countless potential buyers explore the cars, controlling what comes into contact with the floor mats is challenging. Shoes, clothing, and even outside contaminants can be transferred onto the mats, leading to a buildup of dirt and germs.

Car dealerships prioritize cleanliness to provide customers with a safe and welcoming environment. By removing floor mats, they can better manage and maintain the hygiene standards within the vehicles on display.

4. Encouraging Customization

When selling a vehicle, car dealers often want to showcase the potential for customization and personalization. As a simple yet impactful accessory, floor mats can be easily swapped out for different styles and colors.

By not including floor mats, car dealers subtly convey to potential buyers that they can choose their floor mat options. This can be an appealing prospect for those who want to put their personal touch on their new vehicle.

A Step-by-Step Guide for Car Buyers

Now that we&#;ve uncovered the reasons behind floor mat removal, let&#;s provide a step-by-step guide for car buyers to navigate this aspect of the car purchasing.

1. Ask About Floor Mats

When considering a vehicle at a dealership, inquire about the availability of floor mats. Please don&#;t assume they come with the car; dealers may have removed them for the abovementioned reasons.

2. Negotiate Inclusion

If you find that floor mats have been removed, don&#;t hesitate to negotiate with the dealer. You can request that they include a set of floor mats as part of the deal. This negotiation can be an excellent opportunity to gauge the dealer&#;s willingness to accommodate your needs.

3. Explore Customization

If the dealer does not include floor mats, view it as an opportunity to personalize your vehicle. Research various floor mat options that suit your style and preferences. You can find a wide range of floor mats in terms of material, color, and design to match your taste.

4. Consider Aftermarket Options

If the negotiation with the dealer doesn&#;t yield the desired result, or if you prefer a specific floor mat, consider aftermarket options. Many third-party manufacturers offer high-quality floor mats that can be tailored to fit your vehicle perfectly.

5. Maintain Your Floor Mats

Once you have your floor mats, it&#;s essential to maintain them properly. Regular cleaning and care will ensure they continue to protect your car&#;s interior effectively. Follow the manufacturer&#;s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to maximize their lifespan.

Conclusion: The Art of Car Dealership Presentation

In conclusion, removing floor mats in car dealerships is not a mere oversight but a deliberate strategy to enhance the visual appeal, protect the mats themselves, maintain hygiene standards, and encourage personalization. While it may initially seem puzzling to potential buyers, understanding the reasoning behind this practice can lead to more informed and confident car purchasing decisions.

As a car buyer, you can negotiate and choose the floor mats that best suit your preferences. Whether you opt for the dealer&#;s offerings or explore aftermarket options, the ultimate goal is to ensure your new vehicle has floor mats that enhance aesthetics and functionality.

So, the next time you step into a car dealership and notice the absence of floor mats, remember the hidden secrets behind this practice. It&#;s all part of the art of car dealership presentation, designed to create an unforgettable experience for you, the discerning buyer.

FAQ: All About Car Floor Mats

Why don&#;t cars come with floor mats?

Cars typically do not include floor mats as standard equipment because manufacturers aim to keep the vehicle&#;s base price as low as possible. Including floor mats as standard would increase the overall cost, and not all buyers may want or need them. This allows manufacturers to offer a more affordable base price while allowing buyers to customize their vehicles according to their preferences.

Do cars really need floor mats?

While floor mats are not an absolute necessity, they are highly recommended for several reasons. Floor mats protect the car&#;s carpeting from dirt, moisture, and wear and tear, which can significantly extend the life of your vehicle&#;s interior. They also help maintain cleanliness and hygiene, making your car a more pleasant and comfortable environment. So, while not mandatory, floor mats are a practical and beneficial addition to any vehicle.

What is the purpose of a car floor mat?

The primary purpose of a car floor mat is to protect the vehicle&#;s carpeting from dirt, moisture, and damage. They act as a barrier between your shoes and the car&#;s delicate interior, preventing stains and wear and tear. Additionally, floor mats contribute to the aesthetics of the car&#;s interior and can be personalized to suit the owner&#;s style.

Do all new Toyotas come with floor mats?

Not necessarily. Whether a new Toyota comes with floor mats depends on the specific trim level and package the buyer chooses. Base models may not include floor mats as standard, while higher trim levels or packages may include them as part of the vehicle&#;s features. It&#;s essential to check with the dealership or review the vehicle&#;s specifications to confirm whether floor mats are included.

Is matting good for cars?

Yes, matting (using floor mats) is beneficial for cars. It helps protect the car&#;s interior from damage, improves cleanliness, and enhances the overall appearance. Matting is an effective way to preserve the quality of your car&#;s carpeting and maintain its resale value.

Should you get mats with a new car?

Purchasing floor mats with a new car is generally a good idea. While they may not be included as standard equipment, purchasing floor mats from the dealership or opting for an aftermarket set can help protect your investment. Floor mats are a relatively inexpensive accessory that can significantly benefit your car&#;s interior.

How long do car floor mats last?

The lifespan of car floor mats varies depending on material quality, usage, and maintenance. High-quality rubber or carpeted floor mats can last several years with proper care. Regular cleaning and avoiding excessive wear and tear can help extend their longevity. However, inspecting and replacing floor mats is a good practice if they show signs of significant wear or damage.

Is a rubber mat better for a car?

Rubber mats are an excellent choice for car floor mats, especially in areas with high moisture or where you frequently encounter dirt and debris. They are easy to clean, durable, and protect against water and stains. However, the choice between rubber and carpeted mats ultimately depends on your preferences and your vehicle&#;s specific needs.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Truck floor Mats Wholesale. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.