The Porsche 928 is an iconic grand tourer that blends luxury with performance. While its V8 engine and futuristic design have aged gracefully, the interior—especially the leather seats—often shows signs of wear after decades. Cracked leather, faded color, and tired interior trim are common issues for classic 928s. Fortunately, with the right tools and techniques, you can restore your interior to look and feel like new.
1. Assess the Condition of the Interior
Before you start, carefully inspect:
- Leather seats: Look for cracks, dryness, fading, or deep scratches.
- Dashboard and trim: Check for sun damage, peeling, or warping.
- Carpets: Look for stains, dirt buildup, and worn spots.
- Headliner: Make sure it’s not sagging or discolored.
If the leather is just dry and faded, you can restore it. If it’s torn or severely damaged, professional reupholstery might be the best option.
2. Gather Your Tools and Materials
You don’t need a workshop, but you do need the right supplies:
- Soft microfiber cloths
- Leather cleaner (pH-balanced)
- Leather conditioner or rejuvenator
- Leather dye kit (if recoloring is needed)
- Soft detailing brushes
- Plastic trim cleaner
- Carpet cleaner or upholstery shampoo
- Vacuum cleaner with crevice tool
3. Deep Clean the Leather
- Vacuum first: Remove dust, crumbs, and dirt from the seats and creases.
- Apply leather cleaner: Use a microfiber cloth or a soft brush to gently scrub the surface.
- Wipe clean: Remove the cleaner with a damp cloth, avoiding excess water.
- Let it dry completely before moving on.
Tip: Never use household detergents—they strip away natural oils and damage leather.
4. Restore Leather Color and Texture
If your leather is faded:
- Light sanding (optional): For rough patches, use 800–1000 grit sandpaper lightly.
- Apply leather dye: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, using thin, even coats.
- Allow to dry: Usually 24 hours between coats for best results.
- Seal and protect: Finish with a leather sealant to lock in color.
5. Condition the Leather
After cleaning or dyeing:
- Apply a quality leather conditioner to replenish oils and keep leather soft.
- Work it in with a cloth and let it soak overnight.
- Buff lightly the next day for a smooth finish.
Pro tip: Condition leather every 3–6 months to prevent drying and cracking.
6. Clean the Rest of the Interior
- Dashboard & door panels: Use a plastic/vinyl cleaner to remove dirt and restore shine.
- Carpets & floor mats: Vacuum thoroughly, then shampoo and dry.
- Headliner: Lightly clean with a damp microfiber cloth (avoid soaking—it can cause sagging).
7. Final Touches
- Replace worn trim pieces if needed.
- Install new floor mats for a fresh look.
- Use a UV protectant on leather and plastics to reduce future sun damage.
8. Maintenance Tips
- Park in the shade or use a windshield sunshade to protect your leather.
- Wipe down leather seats regularly to prevent dust buildup.
- Address spills immediately to avoid staining.
Conclusion
Restoring the leather seats and interior of a Porsche 928 is a rewarding DIY project. With patience, the right products, and regular maintenance, you can keep your 928’s cabin feeling as luxurious as the day it rolled out of the factory. Whether you’re preparing for a car show or simply want to enjoy your drive in comfort, a refreshed interior will make your 928 truly shine.
