The purpose of this study was to asses the fate of incomplete seating of press-fit acetabular components. From 1990 to 2002, 587 hip arthroplasties were performed using a single-design acetabular component inserted with a press-fit technique with no additional fixation. Complete radiographic follow-up at a mean 9.2 years was available for 343 cases. One hundred thirty-three acetabular components had incomplete seating on the initial postoperative radiograph and 210 cases had complete seating. Of 133 components, 125 (94%) had evidence of complete zone 2 filling. Zone 2 focal osteolysis was present in 22 patients. There were no intraoperative fractures. No acetabular components were revised for loosening. Incomplete seating of press-fit acetabular components is safe and effective in achieving initial and long-term fixation. Zone 2 lucencies when present initially are not associated with increased failure risks. Vigorous attempts to completely seat the acetabular component appear to be unwarranted.