You might be planning to change your car interior with more modern materials. Leather and plastic are popular options, but many drivers are turning to Toyota Softex.
Before trying the new material, it’s vital to learn its problems. So keep reading to learn the disadvantages of Toyota Softex.
Contents
Toyota Softex Overview
Toyota Softex is manufactured from synthetic leather. The material is a popular choice with people who don’t love animal-related products in their cars. Besides being environmentally friendly, Toyota Softex is elegant. Different environmental agencies encourage the use of Toyota Softex because it has fewer emissions to Mother Nature and is safe for human health.
Toyota Softex doesn’t need regular maintenance compared to other interior materials. In addition, you will love Softex because it has no lasting smell. However, the material is more expensive than cloth. The synthetic leather material is made to resist the following:
- Spills
- Wear from pet claws
Drivers and passengers will feel comfortable as it does not slip on sharp bends. That’s the reason Toyota Softex is popular in races. With Softex, passengers remain steady even when driving at high speed. Animal lovers, specifically those who fight cruelty to animals, are using Toyota Softex.
Toyota Softex vs. Leather
Toyota Softex is an artificial leather material that maintains the premium feel of the original leather. Unlike leather, Softex is more durable and matches perfectly with Toyota interiors. Toyota Softex boasts of a higher level of breathability than original leather. As a result, your interiors will remain cool even in the summer months.
In addition, Softex tends to absorb water faster. Therefore, it’s easier to wipe spills on a Softex interior than on leather. Besides, Toyota Softex is made with fewer organic compounds and emits less CO2.
The material continues to gain popularity as it does not absorb dirt easily. Like leather, Toyota Softex has passed numerous durability tests.
Some Common Toyota Softex Problems
Here are the most common Toyota Softex Problems.
Appearance
Vehicle owners consider appearance when choosing a product. In terms of luxury, Toyota Softex is softer than leather. People will purchase a vehicle with more expensive interiors. Toyota Softex is beautiful but not luxurious like leather.
Toyota has fewer luxury cars, so it came up with the fabric without considering fashion. Although Toyota Softex comes in numerous colors, it’s not sumptuous. That’s why fashion lovers avoid the material. However, simple people choose Softex because it’s affordable.
Less Durable
Although Toyota Softex is made with quality synthetic leather, it’s less durable than leather. While the thin feature of Toyota Softex improves breathability, it’s prone to damage. People will choose leather over Softex because thicker fabric lasts longer. Vehicle owners often complain that Toyota Softex wears out after months.
Toyota Softex is not the perfect choice if you use your car daily. For instance, a steering wheel with Softex will not endure friction for years. You must keep changing your interiors if you carry passengers.
Softex Does Not Protect the Seats
You will easily maintain seats made from Toyota Softex, but it’s hard to protect them from damage. Leather seats are cleaned with oils and other products. However, Toyota Softex advises its users not to use specific products. It’s not advisable to use benzene and gasoline products on Toyota Softex.
Toyota Softex restricts vehicle owners from using alcohol-based products on seat areas. Unfortunately, it’s hard to follow all these restrictions to the latter. For instance, using benzene discolors the fabric.
Average Resale Value
Your vehicle will depreciate more if it features Softex interiors. It’s worth noting that Toyota Softex interiors will sell at a lower price even if you properly maintain them. Used leather costs more than Softex.
Prone to Creases and Wrinkles
Although other materials develop creases over time, Toyota Softex is more prone to creases and wrinkles than pure leather. You will notice more creases on the driver’s seat when using Toyota Softex.
The driver’s seat is always moving more than other seats. If you don’t find a way to protect the interior from creasing, your seats will wear down quickly. It’s hard to avoid creasing, especially if you drive every day.
Pet Claws
Toyota Softex is a soft material, making it prone to tears and rips from your pets. Your four-legged companion will hardly slide on Toyota Softex even if it has a better grip. Your interior will tear when punctured by pets.
Is Toyota Softex Any Good?
Toyota Softex is a highly durable fabric. Softex also ensures comfort and unrivaled elegance in your vehicle. The material is anti-slip and ideal for people who travel long distances. If well maintained, Toyota Softex can last for over ten years.
The primary advantage of using Toyota Softex is its higher breathability and environmentally friendly characteristics.
Toyota Softex FAQs
Let’s discuss the most common questions about Toyota Softex.
Is Toyota Softex real leather?
Toyota Softex is made from synthetic material. The thermoplastic polyurethane material is an excellent alternative to natural leather. Although Softex can’t match genuine leather, it absorbs less heat.
How long does Toyota Softex last?
Toyota Softex will last for over ten years if well maintained.
Is Toyota Softex waterproof?
Toyota Softex isn’t waterproof but specifically made to resist spills. Softex absorbs liquids slower than other interior materials like cloth. So don’t worry if your kids spill soda or water on the seats. You only need a cloth to clean the seats.
Does Toyota Softex breathe?
Toyota Softex is known for its high breathability characteristics. You remain cool when you drive for long hours. Back sweats will be an issue of the past when choosing Toyota Softex for your seats. However, Toyota Softex does not breathe uniformly like cloth.
Parting Shot
Toyota Softex has pros and cons, and the choice mainly depends on your needs. Consider Toyota Softex if you desire an eye-catching interior. However, pure leather is ideal if you want a long-term solution.
Toyota Softex will only last longer if you maintain it. Wipe the spillage properly, and avoid using benzene as it can damage your car interiors.
