Pleather vs Leather

[Grady]

Dumb question I suppose but how does an amateur tell the difference between them and generally speaking what (in a USA 1986 280i) is actually leather? Thanks Grady

[bradderztvr]

I would imagine the most reliable way is to look at the underside if you can, as leather will look like...er..... leather underneath, where the other stuff will have a woven fabric type underside.

[stevoj]

I think also if you put a couple of drops of water on (or leather cleaner), leather changes color slightly until it dries out again whereas I don't think vinyl does.

[adam quantrill]

If you rub it, vinyl squeaks, but leather moos.

[Fermit The Krog]

When pressed in with a finger real leather shall show it's grain, giving the appearance of a crinkled peach skin. I can take and post a photo if you need a visual. NB, I own a leather restoration co, and this is the two second test I use, is not a case of repeating old wives tales or similar

[ElvisWedgely]

When you burn leather it gives off a complete different smell to vinyl or plastic. I'm not saying you should burn your seats but sometimes under the seat you can get a section tucked away or sewn in, you may be able to cut a very small piece for testing.

Tony. TCB.

[GBinUSA]

Hi Grady,

We have the same model and year. I believe all that is leather are the seat fronts and the gear shifter boot. Everything else is vinyl, unfortunately.

Cheers, Gavin.

[adam quantrill]

The trouble is on half leather cars the seat face is leather, whereas the squab around the base is vinyl as is the seat back, and door cards, so different parts will burn differently.

Full leather has leather everywhere.