Car Mats Honda Civic 2017 – The Ultimate Guide To Protection, Style

Let’s face it: whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend warrior hitting the trails, or just someone who enjoys a clean ride, your car’s interior takes a beating. From muddy boots after an off-road adventure to spilled coffee on the morning commute, the floor of your beloved 2017 Honda Civic is constantly under attack. But what if we told you there’s an easy, affordable, and incredibly effective way to defend your interior, enhance its look, and even boost your car’s resale value?

You’re in the right place! This comprehensive guide is dedicated to everything you need to know about car mats for your Honda Civic 2017. We’ll dive deep into choosing the right type, installing them like a pro, keeping them pristine, and even tackling common problems. By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert on selecting, maintaining, and maximizing the life of your Honda Civic’s floor protection, ensuring your ride stays looking sharp, no matter what you throw at it.

Understanding Your Options: Types of Car Mats for Honda Civic 2017

Choosing the right car mats for your Honda Civic 2017 isn’t just about picking a color; it’s about matching your lifestyle and protection needs. Think of it as specialized armor for your floorboards. Let’s break down the main types available.

All-Weather Rubber Mats

These are the heavy-duty champions, perfect for off-roaders, families, or anyone living in areas with harsh weather. Made from durable rubber or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), they feature deep grooves and raised edges designed to trap water, mud, snow, and spills.

Pros: Unbeatable protection, easy to clean (just hose them off!), excellent for extreme conditions.
Cons: Can feel less “luxurious” than carpet, might be heavier.
Best Use: Off-roading, snowy climates, construction workers, pet owners.

Carpeted Mats

Often standard equipment, carpeted mats offer a softer, more integrated look that complements your Civic’s factory interior. They come in various pile heights and densities.

Pros: Aesthetically pleasing, comfortable underfoot, helps with sound dampening.
Cons: Harder to clean tough stains, less effective against heavy liquid spills, can wear out faster in high-traffic areas.
Best Use: Daily driving, those prioritizing interior aesthetics, less exposure to extreme dirt.

Semi-Custom vs. Custom Fit

This distinction is crucial for optimal protection and safety.

Semi-Custom Mats: Designed to fit a range of vehicles within a certain class. They offer better coverage than universal mats but might have small gaps or not align perfectly with anchor points.
Custom-Fit Mats: Precisely molded to the exact contours of your 2017 Honda Civic’s floor. They offer maximum coverage, utilize factory anchor points, and look like they came with the car.

For the best protection and safety, always aim for custom-fit car mats Honda Civic 2017 specific. They might cost a bit more, but the peace of mind and superior fit are well worth it.

Hybrid Options

Some manufacturers offer hybrid mats that combine the best of both worlds – a carpeted top layer with a waterproof rubber backing. These can be a great compromise for those who want both protection and aesthetics.

The Unsung Heroes: Benefits of Quality Car Mats Honda Civic 2017

You might think car mats are just, well, mats. But investing in quality car mats for your Honda Civic 2017 offers a surprising array of benefits that go far beyond just catching dirt.

Protecting Your Investment

The original carpet in your Civic is expensive to repair or replace. Quality mats act as a sacrificial layer, absorbing all the abuse. This prevents wear, stains, and even mold growth in your vehicle’s underlying carpet, which can be a nightmare to deal with.

Enhanced Interior Aesthetics

A fresh set of mats can instantly refresh your car’s interior. Whether you choose sleek black rubber or a plush carpet, new mats contribute to a cleaner, more refined look. They can cover up existing wear on the factory carpet, making your Civic feel newer.

Safety First: Grip and Security

This is where quality really shines. Properly designed and installed mats feature anti-slip backing and utilize your Civic’s factory retention hooks. This prevents the mats from sliding under your pedals, which can be a serious safety hazard. Always ensure your mats don’t interfere with pedal operation.

Resale Value Boost

When it comes time to sell your 2017 Honda Civic, a pristine interior speaks volumes. Buyers will appreciate a well-maintained vehicle, and undamaged original carpet, protected by good mats, is a significant plus. It shows you cared for your car, which translates to a better selling price.

DIY Installation & Secure Fit: How to Car Mats Honda Civic 2017

Installing car mats in your Honda Civic 2017 is typically a straightforward process, but doing it correctly is vital for both protection and safety. Let’s walk through the steps.

Pre-Installation Checks

Before you even unroll your new mats, do a quick check:

Remove Old Mats: Always remove any existing floor mats before installing new ones. Stacking mats can create dangerous interference with your pedals.
Clean the Floor: Vacuum the underlying carpet thoroughly. A clean surface helps new mats sit flat and prevents debris from getting trapped underneath.
Identify Anchor Points: Locate the factory anchor points (hooks or posts) on your Civic’s floor. Your new mats should align perfectly with these.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Once you’ve prepped, installation is a breeze:

Start with the Driver’s Side: This is the most critical mat due to pedal interaction. Carefully position the mat, ensuring it lays flat and doesn’t obstruct any pedals.
Align Anchor Holes: Press the mat down firmly, aligning the holes in the mat with the factory anchor posts or hooks on the floor.
Secure the Mat: Push the mat onto the anchor posts until it clicks into place, or twist the hooks to lock the mat down. Always confirm the mat is securely fastened.
Repeat for Passenger and Rear Mats: Follow the same process for the front passenger mat and then the rear mats. While rear mats typically don’t have anchor points, ensure they sit flat and don’t bunch up.
Final Check: Once all mats are in place, sit in the driver’s seat and operate the brake, accelerator, and clutch (if applicable) through their full range of motion. Ensure there is no interference from the mat.

Securing Your Mats: Hooks and Anchors

Your 2017 Honda Civic comes equipped with specific floor mat retention systems. These are crucial for safety. Most commonly, you’ll find:

Post-Style Anchors: A raised post on the floor that the mat clips onto.
Hook-Style Anchors: A hook that rotates to secure the mat.

Always use these systems. If your new mats don’t come with corresponding holes or clips, they are likely not the correct fit for your Civic, and you should reconsider using them for safety reasons.

Keeping Them Fresh: Car Mats Honda Civic 2017 Care Guide & Best Practices

To maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of your car mats for Honda Civic 2017, regular cleaning and proper care are essential. A little effort goes a long way.

Regular Cleaning Routines

For everyday maintenance, these simple steps keep things tidy:

Shake Them Out: Every few days or once a week, take your mats out and give them a good shake to remove loose dirt and debris.
Vacuum: For carpeted mats, a quick vacuuming will pick up most surface grime.
Wipe Down (Rubber Mats): For rubber mats, a damp cloth or a quick spray with a hose followed by a wipe-down is usually sufficient.

Deep Cleaning for Different Materials

When regular cleaning isn’t enough, it’s time for a deeper dive:

Rubber/All-Weather Mats:
- Remove mats from the car.
- Hose them down thoroughly to remove loose dirt.
- Apply a mild automotive cleaner or a degreaser (like Simple Green diluted) and scrub with a stiff brush.
- Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is gone.
- Pro Tip: For stubborn stains or to restore shine, use a rubber or vinyl protectant after cleaning and drying.
Carpeted Mats:
- Remove mats and vacuum thoroughly.
- Pre-treat any stains with a dedicated carpet stain remover. Follow product instructions.
- Use an automotive carpet cleaner or a solution of mild detergent and water. Spray evenly.
- Scrub gently with a soft brush or microfiber towel.
- Blot excess moisture with a clean, dry towel.
- Pro Tip: For very dirty mats, a wet/dry vacuum or carpet extractor can work wonders.

Drying and Reinstallation

Proper drying is crucial to prevent mold and mildew:

Air Dry: Always allow mats to air dry completely before putting them back in your Civic. Hang them or lay them flat in a well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight to prevent fading or warping.
Avoid Heat: Do not use direct heat (like a blow dryer or clothes dryer) on rubber mats, as this can cause them to warp or crack.
Reinstall Securely: Once completely dry, reinstall your mats, ensuring they are properly anchored as described in the installation section.

Troubleshooting & Common Problems with Car Mats Honda Civic 2017

Even the best car mats for your Honda Civic 2017 can encounter issues over time. Knowing how to troubleshoot these common problems can save you headaches and keep your interior looking great.

Mats Shifting or Bunching

This is a significant safety concern and a common frustration.

Cause: Incorrect size, worn-out anchor points, missing anchors, or improper installation.
Solution:
- First, ensure you’ve removed any old mats.
- Check if your mats are custom-fit for the 2017 Honda Civic and use the factory anchor points.
- Inspect the anchor points themselves; if they’re broken or worn, they might need replacement (a simple DIY fix in most cases).
- Ensure the mat is fully pressed onto the anchors.
- If all else fails, consider replacing with a higher-quality, custom-fit mat designed specifically for your Civic.

Persistent Odors

Smelly mats can make your whole car smell less inviting.

Cause: Trapped moisture, food spills, pet accidents, or mold/mildew.
Solution:
- Deep clean the mats thoroughly as per the care guide.
- For stubborn odors, try an enzymatic cleaner designed for pet odors or a baking soda sprinkle (let it sit overnight, then vacuum).
- Ensure mats are completely dry before reinstallation.
- If the underlying carpet is the source, it might need professional cleaning.

Wear and Tear: When to Replace

Mats aren’t forever. Knowing when to replace them is key.

Signs of Wear:
- Holes or tears, especially on the driver’s side heel pad.
- Fading or discoloration that doesn’t clean up.
- Rubber mats becoming brittle, cracked, or losing their flexibility.
- Anchor holes becoming stretched or ripped, preventing secure attachment.
When to Replace: As soon as safety (mat shifting) or significant protection is compromised. Don’t wait until the underlying carpet starts to show damage.

Beyond the Basics: Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Car Mats Honda Civic 2017

As enthusiasts, we care about our vehicles, and increasingly, we care about our planet. The good news is that there are growing options for sustainable car mats for Honda Civic 2017.

Recycled Materials

Many manufacturers are now producing mats from recycled plastics, tires, or other post-consumer waste. These mats often offer the same durability and protection as their virgin material counterparts but with a significantly reduced environmental footprint.

Look For: Brands that explicitly state their use of recycled content.
Benefits: Reduces landfill waste, conserves resources.

Biodegradable Options

While less common, some innovative companies are exploring biodegradable materials for car mats. These options aim to break down more naturally at the end of their life cycle.

Considerations: May not yet offer the same extreme durability as rubber, but technology is advancing rapidly.

Extending Mat Lifespan

The most eco-friendly mat is the one you don’t have to replace often. By following the care guide and choosing high-quality, durable mats, you naturally reduce waste. Proper cleaning and maintenance are key to making your mats last for years.

Pro Tips for Choosing Your Next Set of Car Mats Honda Civic 2017

Ready to upgrade or replace your mats? Here are some final car mats Honda Civic 2017 tips from the FatBoysOffroad crew to help you make the smartest choice.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Be honest about how you use your Civic. Do you frequently haul muddy gear? Have kids or pets? Live in a snowy climate? These factors should heavily influence whether you lean towards all-weather rubber or carpeted mats.

OEM vs. Aftermarket

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Mats: These are Honda-branded mats, guaranteed to fit perfectly and match your interior’s aesthetic. They often come with a premium price tag.
Aftermarket Mats: Available from various third-party brands (e.g., WeatherTech, Husky Liners, Lloyd Mats). Many offer custom-fit options that rival or even exceed OEM quality, often at a more competitive price. They might also offer more color or material choices.

For the 2017 Civic, both OEM and reputable aftermarket custom-fit options are excellent choices. Just ensure the aftermarket mats specify “custom-fit for Honda Civic 2017.”

Read Reviews and Warranties

Before purchasing, always check reviews from other 2017 Honda Civic owners. Look for feedback on fit, durability, ease of cleaning, and any common issues. Also, check the manufacturer’s warranty. A good warranty indicates confidence in their product’s quality.

Don’t Forget Cargo Liners!

If you’re serious about protecting your Civic, extend your coverage to the trunk or cargo area. A custom-fit cargo liner can save your carpet from groceries, tools, and muddy gear, just like floor mats protect the cabin.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Mats for Your Honda Civic 2017

Are OEM mats always better than aftermarket options for my 2017 Civic?

Not necessarily. While OEM mats guarantee a perfect factory fit and match, many aftermarket brands like WeatherTech and Husky Liners offer custom-fit mats that are equally, if not more, durable and protective, often at a better price point or with unique features. It largely depends on your specific needs and budget.

How often should I clean my car mats?

For rubber mats, a quick hose-down and wipe weekly is ideal, with a deep clean monthly. Carpeted mats should be vacuumed weekly and deep cleaned every 1-3 months, depending on usage and how dirty they get. The more frequently you clean them, the longer they will last and the better your interior will look.

Can I use universal mats in my 2017 Civic?

While you *can* technically use universal mats, it’s generally not recommended, especially for the driver’s side. Universal mats often don’t fit securely, can slide around, and may interfere with your pedals, posing a safety risk. For the best protection and safety, always opt for custom-fit mats designed specifically for the 2017 Honda Civic.

What’s the best way to remove tough stains from carpet mats?

For tough stains, immediately blot (don’t rub) with a clean cloth. Then, use a dedicated automotive carpet stain remover, following the product instructions carefully. For really stubborn stains, a mixture of warm water and a small amount of laundry detergent, scrubbed gently with a brush and blotted dry, can work. Always test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area first.

Do car mats affect my car’s resale value?

Absolutely! Quality car mats protect your original carpet from wear, stains, and damage. When you go to sell your 2017 Honda Civic, having a pristine factory carpet underneath well-maintained mats (or even just the original carpet in excellent condition because of the mats) will significantly contribute to a higher resale value and make your car more appealing to potential buyers.

There you have it, folks! From understanding the different types of car mats for your Honda Civic 2017 to mastering their installation, care, and even tackling common issues, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to keep your Civic’s interior looking fantastic and protected for years to come. Remember, these aren’t just accessories; they’re essential gear for any driver who cares about their ride.

By choosing the right mats and giving them the care they deserve, you’re not just buying a product; you’re investing in the longevity, safety, and aesthetic appeal of your Honda Civic. So go ahead, get those perfect mats, install them securely, and enjoy a cleaner, safer, and more stylish ride. Stay safe and stay comfortable!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.