If you've spent any time on the road, you know that the cab of a semi-truck can feel like a second home. There's something about a lush, leather-clad captain's chair that blends comfort and aesthetics. That is, until the inevitable happens and cracks start to appear on that once-pristine surface. So, what causes leather truck seats to crack? Find out what causes this unfortunate damage and how you can prevent it from happening too soon.

Consistent Use

Leather, that supple and timeless material, ages due to a variety of reasons. While time is certainly a factor, it's not the only one that causes the breakdown.

Leather is durable, but it is subject to wear with exposure to the world around it. Semi-truck seats support drivers for very long hauls, so they naturally endure a lot of wear and tear.

This is why it’s important to invest in durable leather seats for semi-trucks. Keep an eye on your seats when completing pre-ride inspections to identify potential signs of wear on the surface. Wearing out is inevitable, but some factors can hasten the pace, leading to unsightly cracks sooner than expected.

Direct Damage

Accidents can happen on the road to the interior of your truck as well as the exterior. If you are holding a rigid, sharp object and accidentally drop it on the leather, this can cause the truck seats to suffer wear more quickly. Don’t let accidental seat damage fester; immediately repair or replace the seat to ensure the damage doesn’t worsen.

To prevent your seats from quickly accruing damage, invest in the best-quality leather when purchasing your truck. It may seem like a small decision at the time, but it can make a significant difference over the life of the vehicle.

Overlooking Upkeep

One of the biggest issues that causes leather truck seats to crack is a lack of overall maintenance. The enemy of leather health is a buildup of dirt, grime, and oils.

Make it a part of your cleaning routine to clean off your seats, removing debris and maintaining the leather surface. Leather creams and conditioners keep truck seats healthy on the road. They are akin to moisturizers, replenishing the leather's oils and preserving its suppleness. Apply a high-quality conditioner every few months to keep your seats in great condition.

However, starting a good truck seat maintenance routine requires outfitting your truck with high-quality leather first. At GRA-MAG, our aftermarket semi-truck seats include leather designs that will withstand the test of time with routine care. Optimize your truck cabin with the right parts and a consistent routine to ensure the best experience during every drive.