Steering Wheel Peel
 

The 'leather" on my '15's steering wheel is peeling. It's acting like cheap "bonded" leather furniture in that a thin outer layer of material peels off leaving a substrate of [something] behind.

I'm not really interested in repairing (probably throwing time away) or replacing with OEM (throwing money away). So, among the substantial array of replacement wheels out there, does one rise to the top in terms of quality? I have no issue with the overall feel of the OEM wheel other than its diseased skin.

Cheapest solution is likely to have it re-upholstered by someone. Probably how you'll get the best quality leather, too.

I have a REAL (brand name) Leather steering wheel for my 2017. It is fantastic in terms of fit & finish and doesn't look too aftermarket except for the D-shape. This is what I have: https://www.86worx.com/real-original...eel-kouki.html.

It appears they have a zenki version too which isn't a D-shape but from the same company: https://www.86worx.com/real-gun-grip...ing-wheel.html

Very unlikely you will find a "real" leather steering wheel that isn't an exorbitant cost. Re-upholstery will be your most economical option.

They are all generally synthetic, bonded, or PVC leathers at this vehicle price point. They are fine until they get a tiny little scratch/tear and then they peel as you describe.

I see you live in Texas... does the car sit out in the sun a lot? Regular UV treatment (I like 303 leather conditioner) and a sunshade will help your new one last a lot longer for future.

Getting it wrapped by Sweidit will cost about $300.

I've had a Cusco steering wheel for the last 4 years and it's the best mod I've done to the car IMO. These cars deserve a smaller, thicker steering wheel.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/02...g?v=1576510302

Here ya go - :D

I get this a bit when the weather is cold. When it's warm, no peeling. Keeping my wheel as long as possible, all the aftermarket wheels are just too thick and chunky.

Thanks, folks. I may shoot Sweidit a massage. I had not heard of them. If they can do the work they say they can - I may well bite. The big downside is the lead time.

i just pick at it until there's nothing under my hands to bother me

:lol:

:bow:

Or....

You can buy a factory wheel in perfect condition (albeit from a wrecked car) for about $35. Don't want to go to a yard? They are on ebay for under $50.

Then again, I am "a guilt free parts vulture".

I was looking at ebay and mostly everything was 150-200. Guess I gotta keep looking.

Not worth more than probably 50 to me. If I can find one it'll be either as a donor to ship out for a rework or to fill in for mine while it goes to the hospital.

Edit: Just took a quick look at ebay - there are a couple in the 70-90 range. That said, 90 + 300 gets real close to new decent wheel money.

My 2015 steering wheel is also peeling. It even is peeling where I rarely have my hands. Looks like crap.

I don't think that would stop the habit, hands have a habit of wondering.. you will find new things to unpick!!!