How to Cut Automotive Carpet

The carpet in an automobile will usually wear out before the vehicle outlives its usefulness to the owner. Whether the carpet shows worn bare patches, stubborn stains from spills or a permanent layer of dirt and grime from shoes and boots, over time the original carpet loses it aesthetic appeal. To replace old automotive carpet with new carpet, you must cut the new carpet precisely so in fits around the gearshifts, seats and other obstacles on the vehicle's floor.

• 1

  Lay out the new carpet, flat on the ground, and then place the old carpet directly over the top of the new carpet. Center the old carpet on top of the new carpet.

• 2

  Trace inside all cutout areas and holes of the old carpet, to mark the new carpet for cutting.

• 3

  Place the new carpet into the vehicle and center it so that the cutouts and holes line up with the appropriate areas. Use your utility knife to cut each hole and cutout. At any shift levers, simply cut a small "X" just large enough for the lever to fit through; thereafter, re-center the carpet in place and use your utility knife to trim the edges so you can mold the carpet to the floor.