Is It Necessary to Wrap a Plastic Steering Wheel with Genuine Leather?
3 Answers
It is necessary to wrap a plastic steering wheel with genuine leather, as installing a genuine leather steering wheel cover provides a much better driving feel compared to the original plastic steering wheel. The genuine leather cover offers smoother handling. Below is an extended introduction: 1. The significance of wrapping with genuine leather: If the original steering wheel does not come with genuine leather and the grip feels unsatisfactory, you can choose to cover it with a steering wheel protector. This enhances the tactile experience when your palms contact the wheel and reduces wear on the steering wheel. However, there are a few points to consider when purchasing a steering wheel cover, as improper selection may affect driving safety. 2. The steering wheel as a critical component of the steering system: Any minor flaw can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, when selecting a steering wheel cover, it is essential to choose one that matches the original steering wheel's dimensions. If the cover is too large compared to the original steering wheel, it may slip during turns or when the wheel returns to center, resulting in insufficient steering response.
I've been driving for nearly twenty years. Plastic steering wheels tend to get slippery after prolonged use, especially in summer when palms sweat, which could potentially lead to accidents. After wrapping it with genuine leather, the grip becomes much more secure, and my hands don't get tired while driving—it feels like the steering wheel is an extension of my hand. However, there's no need to wrap it right away; you can wait until the plastic wears rough after three to five years. Cost-wise, a regular shop can do it for a few hundred bucks, which is more economical than replacing the entire steering wheel. Maintenance is also important—regularly applying some conditioning oil helps prevent cracking. From a practical standpoint, I think those who frequently drive long distances or live in hot climates might consider it, but for short commutes, saving that money is perfectly fine—plastic is sufficient.
From the perspective of anti-slip and safety, I highly recommend leather-wrapped steering wheels. Plastic steering wheels can become dangerously slippery during rainy seasons or after exercise, potentially leading to loss of control. Leather wrapping enhances friction, allowing for more precise steering and reducing accident risks. However, it's not a mandatory modification. If the factory plastic is well-designed, it can also offer decent anti-slip properties. Wrapping with leather requires some cost and effort, and choosing artificial leather or high-grade synthetic materials can improve durability. I would suggest regularly checking the steering wheel's condition and taking action at the first sign of wear to balance safety and cost. This is also related to driving habits—only frequent highway drivers need to prioritize this upgrade.
