3-second answer: Sagging foam = the foam collapses (or the springs/hog rings rust) — new foam (~$100-150/side) + a cover. Ripped covers = replacement covers ($150-400) or a quality reupholster. Seat that rocks or won't slide = the track bushings/rollers — clean + grease first (often free). The seats come out with 4 bolts (10-13mm), and the cover job is hog rings + patience.
The options
| Fix | Cost | Effort |
|---|---|---|
| Track clean/lube | $0 | 10 min |
| Foam + cover (DIY) | $150-400 | Afternoon |
| Reupholster (shop) | $400-800 | Hand it off |
| New aftermarket seat | $300-800+ | Bolt-in |
The DIY
- Seat out (4 bolts; unplug the power/airbag harness if equipped; watch the airbag wiring).
- Strip the cover (hog-ring pliers — cut the rings, keep the good ones).
- New foam (or rebuild the springs with zip ties on a collapsed seat — the shade-tree fix that works).
- Cover on, hog rings back (or zip ties — works fine), reassemble.
- Bench vs buckets: same job, buckets are easier.
The safety note
If your truck has side airbags in the seats (some 96s), disconnect the battery and wait before unplugging the seat harness — and never pierce the airbag module wire.
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