I'm confused now...Leather issues

MSOsr

New member
I have a 2005 Cadillac CTS-V that has 12,000 miles. The seats were like new a few thousand miles ago, but now the driver's seat is developing "wrinkles" at the front thigh area.



I put Leatherique reconditioner and Pristine Clean on it and it appeared a little better for about a week, but then the lines returned. I've also used Zaino leather conditioner.



Now I read posts that appear to say all of these products don't penetrate the leather and are basically worthless. What is the consensus of what I should do before it's too late to keep the leather from going totally downhill?



Thanks for your help!



Mike
 
Coated leathers are permeable. They can and do absorb moisture through the urethane coating. As to leather care, I believe Leather Masters is the best product available in the US. This is a great cleaner and protectant to apply to your leather.



For softening leather it is necessary to use a conditioner. The Lexus Conditioner does a decent job. After cleaning, apply the conditioner liberally and let it absorb into the leather for a couple hours. This works best if the car is warm inside as heat helps with the absorption. Wipe any excess conditioner off and buff dry with a separate microfiber towel. After buffing it down completely apply the Leather Master protectant sealer as per the instructions to help keep the leather supple.



The best thing you can do to prolong the life and looks of your leather is to keep it clean. Dirt and grit abrade the coating and the stitching. I'd recommend cleaning your leathers frequently.
 
Thanks!



I had been using Zaino about every 2 months. My car is cover-parked always and I think the leather may have been getting a little dry.



I'm going to clean and protect more often now.



Mike
 
Leather quality in cars has been going down hill for over ten years now. I have attended leather workshops at several national car club meets during this time. It is my understanding the hides are cut half as thin as they used to be and hides are being used from animals that would not have been used in the past, especially in high end cars.

I have cars from the 1960's that still have their original hides and look great. I have friends and family who are driving high end cars that the leather looks worn within a few months of purchase.
 
Any recommendations for keeping the leather as supple as possible? I'm thinking Leatherique rejuvenation to soak in for a number of hours (maybe overnight), followed by LM protection cream.



Sound like a plan?



Mike
 
DNC said:
Leather quality in cars has been going down hill for over ten years now. I have attended leather workshops at several national car club meets during this time. It is my understanding the hides are cut half as thin as they used to be and hides are being used from animals that would not have been used in the past, especially in high end cars.

I have cars from the 1960's that still have their original hides and look great. I have friends and family who are driving high end cars that the leather looks worn within a few months of purchase.



Yes, splits are becoming more common in the leather industry. Whether it makes it into autos, I am not sure. As for new cars being worn in a couple of months, that should not be happening. I have seen it happen over the course of two years or so, but not months. If it does, then take the car back to the dealer.
 
your car has a 4/50 bumper to bumper warranty. you should have some time left. take it to the dealer. i have an issue with mine (CTS, DD) and they are going to repair it (drivers seat and center arm rest). i love cadillac and how they treat you. i've driven them since my first new 1977 coupe de ville. they will most likely take care of it. they are not like the other GM divisions.
 
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