How to Replace the Armrest Leather on a CR-V?
3 Answers
After opening it, identify the type of clips and use a plastic panel to safely remove them—it's unlikely to cause damage. Before applying glue, align the armrest leather properly and mark the position with a pen. Once the glue is applied, the leather cannot be moved unless you reapply the glue.
I enjoy working on my car in my spare time and have replaced the CRV door armrest leather several times. The first step is to remove the door panel—use a plastic pry tool to gently lift the edges, being careful not to damage the clips. Then, unscrew the fastening screws, usually T20 Torx type. Disconnect the window switch connector, making sure to note its position to avoid reversing it later. Next, remove the armrest component. If the old leather is glued on, peel it off slowly—using a hairdryer to heat and soften the adhesive makes the job easier. After cleaning the door panel surface, align and stick the new leather, pressing from the center outward to avoid air bubbles. Finally, reassemble the door panel, securing the screws and clips. The whole process requires patience. A basic tool kit is quite affordable, costing just around 100 yuan, saving you over 300 compared to a shop visit. Be sure to buy CRV-specific parts for a perfect fit—avoid cheap universal ones that may loosen. Test the switches to ensure everything works. It takes about two hours, but it’s a lot of fun.
As someone who frequently works on car repairs, I believe the key to replacing the CRV armrest leather lies in patience and proper tool preparation. You'll need plastic pry bars, a screwdriver set, and a hairdryer. Before starting, disconnect the battery to prevent short-circuit risks—simple safety measure. When removing the door panel, locate those hidden screws, such as those inside the handle or storage compartment. Unscrew them first, then gently separate the panel with the pry bar—avoid using excessive force to prevent interior damage. Before removing the old leather from the armrest, soften the adhesive with heat. When fitting the new leather, press the edges flat and secure them with clamps for a few minutes to dry. Before reassembly, double-check all wiring connections to avoid future window malfunction issues. The entire process can be done solo at a low cost—high-quality replacement leather materials cost just a few dozen bucks, saving you significant labor expenses. I recommend purchasing OEM-matched leather covers for better fit and durability. The DIY job takes about an hour to complete.
