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Corvette: Interior Modifications

Interior modification options are plentiful. This article highlights three mods that you can accomplish yourself.

By Nick Vaughn - February 20, 2015

This article applies to the C5, C6 and C7 Corvette (1997-current).

It doesn't take long. Once you sit behind the wheel of your Corvette for a little while, you'll start to get a slight itch. It doesn't matter what year you own or what options it already has. You'll be driving along, your eyes will catch a glimpse of something, and next thing you know you're heading to your computer or favorite store to look for an upgrade or replacement part. This article is intended to give you a few ideas and options for interior modification for the C5, C6 and even the C7 Corvette.

Figure 1. The C7 factory interior is already well-equipped, but there's room to personalize.

Floor and Cargo Mats

Figure 2. WeatherTech is a purveyor of high quality floor mats.

DIY Cost – $60 to over $150
Professional Cost – Please don't pay a professional to do this.
Skill Level – Zero experience required.

Floor mats are one of the quickest and easiest ways to change the look of the interior of your car. There are so many different options to choose from that the most difficult part may be deciding what to purchase. Options range from inlay hard plastic to color-coded carpet to different blends and fibers, and let's not forget putting the logo on there as well. The odds of purchasing a floor mat that is supposed to match the exact color of your existing carpeting is slim. It may say it's the same, but unless your car has never seen the sun, it's unlikely to match, although it may be close. One thing you can do is purchase a floor mat with an opposite and darker color than your existing carpet. For example, if you have a light gray interior carpet, purchase a black floor mat. The contrasting color can make for a great accent.

Lighting Upgrades

Figure 3. LED interior light upgrades are available from forum sponsors.

DIY Cost – A few dollars to several hundred for LED options and kit size purchased.
Professional Cost – $100 to several hundred dollars.
Skill Level – Ranges from easy (plug and play) to difficult (challenging wiring and mounting).

Interior lights can be another one of those easy upgrade options, but if you want to go all out it can be more challenging. You can purchase lights of just about any color. Your preference will guide you along the way. Options include switching out wheel well lights, adding additional lighting in the back hatch area, and adding lighting to the trunk space if you have a convertible or Z06. LED lights are one of the easiest options to find online right now and can really highlight your personality on the inside of your Corvette.

Dash Trim Kits

Figure 4. Interior trim kits are available in many different finishes. Carbon fiber is a favorite.

DIY Cost – $150 to over $1,000.
Professional Cost – Cost of the kit plus a few hours labor.
Skill Level – Moderate; will take at least an hour, depending on the type of kit.

Trim kits are one of those purchases that can really highlight the details on your Corvette. Kits can be as basic as stainless steel or aluminum pieces that surround AC/heater vents, to pull on overlays that cover entire sections with carbon fiber weaving. You'll definitely want to scrub down the areas with alcohol to eliminate grime and oils before installation. Taking your time with installation is key when using 3M tape backing that comes with most kits. Depending on what you choose, most people may not know the additional detail is there, but you'll be able to enjoy the new highlights for years to come.

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