Is It Necessary to Add a Steering Wheel Cover?
4 Answers
The main purpose of a steering wheel cover is to prevent slipping and wear. Whether to install one or not depends on the original material and quality of the steering wheel. Below are the relevant details: 1. Based on the steering wheel material: If the steering wheel is made of hard plastic, it is necessary to install a cover. If the material is soft rubber, it is optional. 2. Based on driving conditions: When turning the vehicle, especially on unpaved roads or construction site surfaces, it is advisable to install one. Driving on uneven or bumpy roads can create reverse forces that affect steering. A steering wheel cover increases grip friction, improving control. 3. Based on vehicle usage frequency and personal needs: For frequently used vehicles, installing a cover helps protect the steering wheel from wear. It also prevents hand slipping during turns, enhancing grip and steering precision.
Whether a steering wheel cover is necessary depends on personal circumstances. I believe safety comes first, as the original design of the steering wheel already takes grip and emergency handling into account. If you add a cover, especially those with patterns or made of thick materials, it might slip during sharp turns, which is a matter of driving safety. Worse still, some low-quality covers can interfere with airbag deployment. I once used a leather cover on the highway and nearly had an accident due to unstable handling. It wasn't until I visited a repair shop that I learned the original steering wheel is the most reliable. Therefore, it's generally not recommended to add a cover unless it's a professionally certified product, and you regularly check its security. Saving a bit of money is better spent on vehicle inspections to ensure safety.
I personally quite like using steering wheel covers, mainly for comfort and aesthetics. In winter when it's cold, the original steering wheel can be freezing to the touch, and adding a fleece cover makes it much warmer; in summer when hands sweat while driving, a non-slip cover provides a better grip. Plus, you can change up the design to reflect your personality. Of course, it's not a necessity—if your original steering wheel has good material or you usually drive short distances, you might not need to spend the money at all. The cover on my car has been in use for over two years, and I feel it has protected the original wheel from wear, but it's important not to buy one that's too thick to avoid affecting handling. Overall, it's a convenient little accessory, and the key is to choose based on your preferences and lifestyle.
From a practical perspective, I personally think it's unnecessary to spend extra money on steering wheel covers. The steering wheel itself is designed to last for ten years, and under normal use, the wear and tear are minimal. Having driven for over a decade, I've found myself frequently replacing steering wheel covers, and the cumulative cost ends up being more expensive than original factory repairs. Additionally, improperly installed covers can easily slip or accumulate dust, adding to maintenance hassles. Therefore, it's more cost-effective to save that expense and focus on maintaining tires or the engine instead. Moreover, driving without a cover provides a more natural feel.
