Car mat
 Accelerator trapped by unsecured floor mat, causing wide-open throttle (Associated Press) |
Vehicle mats, also known as "automobile floor mats", are designed to protect a vehicle's floor from dirt, wear, and salt corrosion.
One major use of a vehicle mat is to keep the car looking clean. Most mats can be easily removed for cleaning and then replaced. Some require points to ensure they remain fixed in position.
Vehicle mats are an interior car parts accessory that dealerships generally include with the purchase of a vehicle. However, with the surge in leasing organisations and sales through such channels, some cars are offered without them.
Vehicle floor mats come in a variety of shapes and materials. They may feature spikes, grooves, or caps to capture dirt and water, and be made from the synthetic rubber (often referred to as "vinyl" or "thermoplastic") or textile materials.
Floor mats should be distinguished from floor liners. Floor liners feature molded bottoms and edges that run along the walls of vehicles' foot wells, while floor mats are flat on the bottom and are fitted between foot well walls.
Vehicle mats generally come in two options: either rubber or carpet fabric. These differ in a number of ways, and each material provides advantages and disadvantages when compared to the other. For instance, carpet mats are generally tufted and have a rubberised anti-slip backing, while rubber mats are heavier duty and more durable.
Also, some car mats are the plain colour of rubber, while many others contain branded company logos, cartoon characters, or advertisements. They can also come in a wide range of colours.
The terms "universal" and "custom fit" differentiate between floor mats that will fit a multitude of different cars versus those that are specifically designed to fit only one chassis.
Some styles of mats may feature small, flexible spikes on their underside to grip carpeting underneath better, and many makeshift vehicle mats are becoming more popular, often taking the form of PVC alternatives, but rubber vehicle mats are still seen as the safest option.
Car mats produced by original equipment manufacturers must follow stringent regulations in the US, especially due to recent recalls of Toyota car mats that posed safety hazards. Factors that are regulated include odour release, durability, performance in various heat levels, etc.
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Wikipedia