Why Do the Seats Crack So Easily on Acura’s TL? Anybody Know?

Question by Christopher: Why do the seats crack so easily on Acura’s TL? Anybody know?
My first ’06 TL had bad cracks in the leather, and I want to prevent it from happening to my second one, which is a 2008.

Best answer:

Answer by Chrys
keep the leather CLEAN and out of the sun…

Answer by Bash Limpbutt’s Oozing Cyst©
All leather will crack over time, especially if it’s not maintained properly. The best way to maintain leather is the old-fashioned way, with saddle soap and plenty of elbow grease. The popular spray-on, wipe-off “treatments” don’t get into the inner structure of the leather as saddle soap does and do little to actually protect and moisturize it. You need to clean it at least every 6 months, and every 3 months would be even better. Follow the directions on the can carefully and let it dry thoroughly before driving the car.

You also want to minimize exposure to direct sunlight. Window tint will help, but nothing beats a good opaque shade on each window, using a car cover, or covering the upholstery with a good terry towel when it’s not being used.

Cared for properly, leather upholstery will outlast the car. Do keep in mind that even with proper care, leather will show some signs of light cracking or veining as it ages. That’s part of the nature and character of leather, and if you’ve ever ridden in a carefully maintained 40 or 50 year old Rolls-Royce limousine you’ll know exactly what I mean.

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