Pedal covers are small parts, but you touch them every time you drive. A good set can add grip, protect worn rubber, and clean up the look of the footwell. The job is simple, but it has to be done right. A loose pedal cover can slip. That is not something you want while braking.
This guide is for installing pedal covers at home, step by step. It works for most cars, trucks, and SUVs with automatic or manual transmissions.
Tools and Items Needed
- New pedal covers: Rubber slip-on, clamp-on metal, or stick-on style
- Owner’s manual or quick measurements of your pedals
- Ruler or tape measure
- Cleaner: Mild soap and water or interior cleaner
- Rags or paper towels
- Rubbing alcohol: Good for final wipe before adhesive types
- Small flat screwdriver or plastic trim tool: Helps stretch tight rubber covers
- Spray bottle with water and 1 drop of dish soap: For rubber slip-on covers only
- Allen key or small wrench: For clamp-on kits (if included)
- Flashlight
- Gloves: Optional
Safety or Legal Notes
- Safety first: The brake pedal must have full grip and full travel. If anything rubs, binds, or slides, stop and fix it.
- Do not cover the pedal hinge: Only the pedal pad area should be covered.
- Check local rules: Some places can fail a vehicle inspection if a pedal cover is loose or blocks safe operation.
- Do not drive until tested: Do your first test with the engine off, then at low speed in a safe area.
Step-by-Step: How to Install Pedal Covers
1) Identify Your Pedal Type and Cover Type
Look at your pedals and your new covers. Most sets fall into three groups:
- Rubber slip-on: Stretch over the factory rubber pad.
- Clamp-on metal: Usually metal face with screws and a back plate.
- Stick-on pad: Adhesive-backed grip pads (most common for larger brake pedals in some kits).
Also note your transmission:
- Automatic: Gas and brake.
- Manual: Gas, brake, and clutch.
2) Check Size Before You Start
Do a quick fit check. Compare the new cover to each pedal. A cover that is slightly tight is normal for rubber slip-on types. A cover that is too big can slide and is unsafe.
If you are doing other simple interior upgrades, you may also like DIY seat cover installation since you are already working around the cabin.
3) Prep the Footwell
Slide the driver’s seat back. Remove floor mats. Vacuum the area if needed. You want clear space so nothing catches your hand or tools.
4) Clean the Pedal Surfaces
Cleaning is the difference between a cover that stays put and one that moves.
- Rubber slip-on or clamp-on: Clean with soap and water. Dry fully.
- Adhesive stick-on: Clean first, then wipe with rubbing alcohol. Let it air dry.
If the factory rubber pad is oily, gritty, or shiny, clean it again. Dirt acts like tiny ball bearings.
5) Remove the Factory Rubber Pad (Only if Your Kit Needs It)
Some clamp-on kits mount over the original pedal. Others require removing the factory rubber pad so the plate can sit flat.
- If you need to remove it: Pull one corner and work it off slowly.
- If it fights you: Use a plastic tool to lift the edge. Do not cut it unless the instructions say it is not needed anymore.
6) Install Rubber Slip-On Covers
Rubber covers can be tight. That is normal. The goal is a fully seated cover with no loose edges.
- Warm the cover: Leave it in the sun for 10 minutes or warm it indoors. Warm rubber stretches easier.
- Optional trick: Lightly mist the inside with water plus one drop of dish soap. Do not soak it. Do not use oil or grease.
- Start at the top: Hook the top edge onto the pedal first.
- Work down: Stretch the sides evenly.
- Finish at the bottom: Pull the bottom edge over the pedal until it snaps into place.
Wipe off any soap. Then tug on the cover by hand. It should not walk off the pedal.
7) Install Clamp-On Metal Covers
Clamp-on covers look nice and can grip well, but only if mounted correctly.
- Hold the cover on the pedal and check alignment: Your foot should hit the center of the pad.
- Attach the back plate (if included): Line up holes.
- Start all screws by hand: Tighten them a little at a time in a crisscross pattern.
- Do not overtighten: You can crack plastic parts or bend thinner metal.
After tightening, push and pull the cover in all directions. No movement is allowed.
8) Install Stick-On Pads (Adhesive Type)
Adhesive pads only work if the surface is clean and the pad is placed correctly the first time.
- Dry fit first: Hold the pad in place and mark the position with light tape if needed.
- Peel and place: Press the pad down firmly.
- Apply steady pressure: Hold for 30 to 60 seconds.
- Let it set: Wait the time listed on the package before driving. Many adhesives need several hours.
9) Check Pedal Travel and Spacing
With the engine off, press each pedal through its full range.
- Brake: Should not snag on carpet. Should not feel like the cover shifts.
- Gas: Must return smoothly every time.
- Clutch (manual): Must not bind at any point.
Also check side clearance. Your brake and gas should not touch each other with the new covers installed.
10) Road Test Safely
Start in a flat, open area. Drive slowly. Do a few gentle stops. Then do one firm stop. If anything feels odd, park and recheck.
If you ever notice odd pedal behavior during normal driving, like a delay or uneven response, it may not be the cover. It could be a drivability issue like car hesitates when accelerating, so troubleshoot before you keep driving.
Common Mistakes
- Buying the wrong size: Too big is dangerous. It can slide.
- Installing over dirt or moisture: The cover will creep and shift.
- Using oil to help rubber slide on: Oil can stay there and make it move later.
- Covering the pedal arm or hinge area: That can change pedal movement.
- Not tightening clamp screws evenly: One side loosens first.
- Not removing thick floor mats: Some mats can trap the pedal, especially the gas.
Maintenance Tips
- Weekly quick check: Wiggle each cover by hand when you clean the interior.
- Clean tread grooves: Dirt packs into grip patterns. Use a damp rag and a brush.
- Re-tighten clamp kits: Check screws after the first week, then every few months.
- Watch for peeling edges: Adhesive pads that lift should be replaced, not pressed back down permanently.
Cleaning the footwell is easier when it is part of your routine. daily car cleaning basics can help you keep grime off the pedals and mats.
Is It Worth It?
Pedal covers are worth it if your factory pads are worn, slippery, or ugly. They can also add a little more grip with certain shoes. But they are not worth it if the fit is not perfect. A cheap, loose cover is worse than no cover at all.
If you want simple upgrades that add comfort or confidence without big tools, you might also like car mods for driving confidence. Pedals are part of how connected you feel to the car.
Conclusion
Installing pedal covers at home is an easy DIY job if you take your time. Clean the pedals, fit the covers correctly, and test for full movement before you drive. Once installed right, pedal covers can add grip, protect the original pads, and make the driver area look cleaner.
