Keeping the interior of your Hyundai Elantra clean and protected starts with a high-quality set of floor mats. These simple accessories play a big role in shielding your vehicle’s carpet from dirt, water, debris, and daily wear. But choosing the right mats is only part of the solution—proper installation is key to maximizing their effectiveness and ensuring a secure, clean fit.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to install front and rear mats in your 2017–2022 Hyundai Elantra. Whether you’ve just purchased a set of custom-fit all-weather mats or are upgrading from your vehicle’s original ones, following the right installation process will help you get the best out of your investment.
Why Proper Installation Matters
Improperly installed mats can shift underfoot, interfere with pedals, or leave parts of your floor exposed. That not only impacts cleanliness—it can also be a safety issue. Correct installation ensures:
- A secure fit that stays in place while driving
- Full coverage over high-traffic areas like the driver's heel pad and passenger footwells
- No bunching, curling, or wrinkling that can create hazards
- Maximum protection from spills, mud, and moisture
Installing mats correctly takes just a few minutes and helps prolong the lifespan of both the mats and your vehicle’s flooring.
Step 1: Choose the Right Mats
Before installation, make sure you’ve selected mats that are specifically made for your Hyundai Elantra’s model years between 2017 and 2022. Custom-fit mats designed for this generation will align with the vehicle’s contours and anchoring points, offering better performance than universal options.
For premium fit and full-vehicle coverage, consider the Luxury Custom Car Mats Set from Car Mats Customs. It includes front and rear mats engineered to match the Elantra’s flooring precisely.
Step 2: Remove the Old Mats
Begin by removing any factory mats or aftermarket liners already in your Elantra. Even if they appear clean, they can interfere with the fit of the new set.
- Start with the driver’s side. Pull the mat straight upward to avoid dislodging or damaging the retention hooks.
- Repeat for the front passenger mat and both rear mats.
- Vacuum the exposed floor area to remove dirt, debris, or moisture before placing new mats.
Note: Never stack mats on top of each other. This creates a risk of slippage and pedal interference.
Step 3: Identify Mat Positions
Lay out your new mats next to the vehicle to identify which piece goes where. Custom-fit sets will have mats shaped to match the layout of each footwell:
- The driver’s side mat will include cutouts for the accelerator and brake pedal areas and often has a heel pad for durability.
- The passenger side mat is typically symmetrical and covers a wide, flat footwell space.
- Rear mats may be two separate pieces or a single large mat that spans the width of the back seat.
Ensure each piece is oriented correctly before beginning installation.
Step 4: Secure the Front Mats
Most Hyundai Elantra models from 2017 to 2022 include a floor mat retention system—small plastic clips or hooks that secure the front mats in place. Here’s how to install them:
Driver’s Side
- Align the mat with the footwell shape and retention clips.
- Press down on each retention point until it clicks into place or loops securely.
- Check that the mat lies flat and does not interfere with the accelerator or brake pedal.
Passenger Side
- Place the mat into the footwell and ensure it fits snugly along the edges.
- Some models may also include retention clips—secure them if available.
- Verify the mat lies flat without any folding or lifting at the corners.
For more on why correct placement matters, check out our related blog: How to Maintain a Clean Truck Interior.
Step 5: Install the Rear Mats
The rear footwell in the Hyundai Elantra 2017–2022 varies slightly by trim but is generally flat and wide enough to accommodate either two separate mats or one full-width rear mat.
Separate Rear Mats
- Place each mat behind the driver and front passenger seats.
- Align the mats so they hug the floor contours without overlapping each other or the front mats.
- Ensure they don't slide or wrinkle—some may include textured backing for grip.
One-Piece Rear Mat
- Lay the full-width mat across the rear footwell from door to door.
- Center it so that it fits snugly around the center hump and doesn’t curl up at the edges.
- Smooth out any air pockets and verify a flush fit around seat mounts.
Proper rear mat installation prevents shifting under passengers’ feet and ensures easy cleaning after muddy shoes or pet hair accumulates.
Step 6: Test for Movement and Pedal Clearance
After all mats are installed, sit in the driver’s seat and press the accelerator, brake, and (if applicable) clutch pedals through their full range of motion. Make sure the mat does not interfere with any pedal. Even a slight obstruction can become a serious safety issue.
Perform the same check on the passenger and rear sides by applying hand pressure or standing on the mats briefly to verify they don’t move. If you feel any slipping, adjust the mat or retention clips until secure.
Step 7: Adjust for Trunk and Cargo Mats (Optional)
If your mat set includes a matching trunk liner, now is the time to install it. The Hyundai Elantra 2017–2022 has a flat trunk floor with minimal protrusions, which makes installation simple:
- Remove any loose items or cargo from the trunk area.
- Vacuum the floor and wipe down with a damp cloth if needed.
- Place the liner so that it aligns with the cargo floor edges and folds up slightly along the sides.
To match your interior setup, consider the Matching Trunk Mat Full Cover from Car Mats Customs, which offers full coverage and non-slip protection for pets, groceries, and gear.
Cleaning and Maintenance After Installation
Proper mat care ensures your interior remains clean and functional long after installation. Whether your mats are rubber, TPE, or hybrid, here are some care tips to keep them in top shape:
Weekly Maintenance
- Shake out mats to remove loose dirt, sand, and small debris.
- Wipe down with a damp microfiber cloth or paper towel for light dust and grime.
- Vacuum the carpet edges around the mats as needed.
Monthly Deep Cleaning
- Remove all mats from the vehicle.
- Rinse with a hose or wipe with a wet cloth, depending on the material.
- Use a mild soap if heavily soiled (avoid harsh chemicals or bleach).
- Air dry completely before reinstalling.
For more in-depth care tips, especially for all-weather products, read our guide: How to Clean Your Custom Car Mats Without Damaging Them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best mats, incorrect installation or care can reduce their effectiveness. Watch out for these common mistakes:
- Stacking old mats underneath: This can cause bunching or reduce pedal clearance.
- Not using retention clips: Failing to anchor the mats leaves them prone to movement.
- Skipping cleaning routines: Dirt buildup beneath mats can lead to carpet discoloration or mold.
- Ignoring edge curl or damage: Frayed or damaged edges can snag on shoes or slide around.
A few simple checks and a regular cleaning habit will go a long way in protecting your Elantra’s interior over the long term.
Why Custom-Fit Mats Are Ideal for the Hyundai Elantra
While universal mats may seem convenient, they rarely offer the tailored coverage and secure fit needed for optimal interior protection. Custom-fit mats designed specifically for the Hyundai Elantra’s dimensions ensure you get:
- Better pedal clearance and safer driving
- Contoured edges that trap debris and water more effectively
- Full coverage for front and rear footwells
- Anchoring systems that work with your vehicle's hardware
To explore high-quality, vehicle-specific options, visit our Luxury Custom Car Mats Set product page for full compatibility with the 2017–2022 Elantra.
Next, we’ll explore scenarios based on how you use your Elantra: daily driving, pet transport, weather-heavy environments, or rideshare. Each case requires a slightly different mat strategy, which we’ll break down clearly.
Use Cases: Matching Mats to Real-World Driving Needs
Every Hyundai Elantra owner has a different routine—some drive solo to work, others carpool with kids or pets, and some use their vehicle for rideshare or delivery. Choosing mats that suit your specific lifestyle helps you protect your interior where it matters most.
Scenario 1: Daily Commuter
If you use your Elantra mainly for getting to and from work or school, focus on comfort and cleanliness. You’ll want mats that:
- Have a non-slip surface for safe driving in business shoes or heels
- Trap dust, gravel, and road salt tracked in from parking lots or sidewalks
- Offer a clean, professional look
Custom-fit all-weather mats with subtle styling offer both function and appearance, making them ideal for city driving and regular use.
Scenario 2: Parents or Family Transport
If your Elantra frequently carries children or young passengers, messes are inevitable. Consider mats that:
- Have raised edges to trap spills from snacks or drinks
- Are easy to remove and rinse clean
- Resist staining from mud, crayons, and dropped food
Pairing floor mats with custom leather seat covers can create a full-proof system for kid-proofing your interior.
Scenario 3: Pet Owners
Transporting pets—whether a small dog in the rear footwell or a large one in the trunk—requires specialized mats. Look for features such as:
- Scratch-resistant surfaces that hold up against claws
- Textured grip to keep pets from sliding during turns
- Waterproof or water-resistant construction to handle accidents or wet paws
For full coverage, consider pairing floor mats with a Base Car Trunk Mat for added cargo area protection.
Scenario 4: Rideshare or Delivery Driver
When your Elantra is part of your job, keeping the interior clean and professional is essential. Prioritize mats that:
- Offer a sleek, presentable look for passengers
- Are quick to remove and clean between shifts
- Hold up to heavy foot traffic and long hours of use
Long-term durability is especially important in this scenario, making high-grade materials worth the investment.
Maintaining Mats in Extreme Weather
Driving in regions with heavy rain, snow, or dust requires additional consideration. Mats should be chosen based on climate to ensure year-round reliability.
Wet Climates
- Look for deep grooves or high ridges to contain rainwater or slush
- Ensure mats have a raised perimeter to prevent runoff onto the carpet
- Non-slip backing is especially important to prevent shifting
Hot Climates
- Use UV-resistant materials that won’t crack or fade in heat
- Ventilated or perforated mats help reduce heat buildup
- Light-colored options may help reflect some sunlight
Dusty or Sandy Environments
- Choose mats with textured surfaces that catch fine particles
- Vacuum regularly to prevent grinding dirt into the carpet
- Wash mats with a hose or pressure washer for deep cleaning
For more details on selecting mats based on climate, visit our related post: Weather Protection Tips for SUV Owners.
How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Mats
Even the best floor mats won’t last forever. Over time, wear and tear can affect their ability to protect your vehicle. Here are signs that it might be time to replace your mats:
- Cracking, curling, or fraying edges
- Stains or odors that won’t go away despite cleaning
- Loss of grip or sliding underfoot
- Damaged or missing anchor points
Driving with worn-out mats not only looks unkempt—it can also increase your risk of damage to the original carpet. When it’s time to upgrade, make sure to choose options that are compatible with the Elantra’s model years and interior shape.
More Resources for Hyundai Elantra Owners
Looking for additional ways to protect or upgrade your Elantra’s interior? Explore these related blog posts for detailed, practical advice:
- Complete Interior Upgrade for SUV Owners
- Durability Technology in Custom Car Mats
- Pet-Proofing Your Hyundai Interior
These resources provide a broader look at care techniques and accessory ideas, including seat covers, cargo liners, and all-weather upgrades—all designed to help your Elantra stand up to real-life use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do custom-fit mats work for all Elantra trims?
Yes. Most custom-fit mat sets are designed to match the floor dimensions of the entire 2017–2022 generation, including trims like SE, SEL, Limited, and Hybrid variants. However, it’s always a good idea to verify compatibility with your trim level before purchasing to ensure features like anchor clips and cutouts are in the correct positions.
Are all-weather mats worth the investment?
For most drivers, yes. All-weather mats offer superior protection against liquids, debris, and wear compared to carpeted mats. They’re especially useful in regions with heavy rain, snow, or mud and are much easier to clean.
Can I install mats without retention clips?
While it’s possible, it’s not recommended. Retention clips or anchors prevent mats from sliding under the pedals, which is essential for safety. Always use the factory anchor points or secure alternatives to hold the mats in place.
What’s the difference between TPE and rubber mats?
TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) is a modern material that combines the flexibility of rubber with the strength of plastic. It’s odorless, recyclable, and more resistant to temperature extremes. Rubber mats may be more affordable but can be heavier and may emit a scent when new.
Can I pressure wash my floor mats?
Yes—for most rubber and TPE mats, pressure washing is safe and effective. Just be sure to avoid using high-pressure nozzles too close to edges or logos, as this could cause peeling or damage. Allow the mats to fully dry before reinstalling to prevent mildew underneath.
Will mats help with interior odors?
Mats alone won’t eliminate odors, but they can prevent lingering smells by keeping moisture, food crumbs, and pet messes off the underlying carpet. Regularly cleaning your mats can go a long way in maintaining a fresh-smelling cabin.
What if my mats don’t align perfectly?
Custom-fit mats should align closely with the contours of your vehicle’s floor. If yours do not, recheck the product fitment or installation. Sometimes, they need to settle or be realigned to sit properly. Avoid trimming unless the manufacturer specifies it is safe to do so.
Can I use the same mats if I upgrade to a newer Elantra?
If you stay within the same generation (2017–2022), there’s a strong chance the mats will fit. However, if Hyundai updates the interior floor layout in a newer model year outside that range, you may need a new set designed for the newer design.
Final Thoughts
Installing mats in your Hyundai Elantra 2017–2022 is a simple yet impactful way to preserve your car’s interior, improve cleanliness, and enhance resale value. With the right set of mats—whether for daily driving, family outings, or pet transport—you’re investing in practical protection tailored to how you use your vehicle.
Remember, proper fitment, material selection, and regular maintenance are the pillars of long-term performance. When paired with other interior accessories like custom leather seat covers or a matching trunk mat, your vehicle becomes easier to maintain and more comfortable to use every day.
We hope this guide gave you the clarity and confidence to select, install, and maintain the best floor mats for your Hyundai Elantra. If you’re ready to explore more upgrades, browse our full collection of custom-fit interior accessories.
Disclaimer: This blog post is provided for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Hyundai Motor Company or the Hyundai Elantra brand. Vehicle names are used solely to describe product compatibility. Car Mats Customs designs custom-fit interior accessories and is not associated with any original equipment manufacturers.