What are the reasons for the loose plastic behind the steering wheel?
2 Answers
The screws or hidden fasteners on the steering wheel may not be tightened properly, or the steering wheel itself could be damaged. It's impossible for there to be no gap at all. Correct grip method: Place your hands at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions, gripping the edges of the steering wheel on both sides. Your four fingers from index to pinky should naturally wrap around the steering wheel from the inside out, while your thumbs rest naturally along the rim of the steering wheel, lightly touching the inner side. Advantages of correct grip: It allows for precise movements, enables maximum steering range when avoiding emergencies, and ensures accurate return to the center position when straightening the wheel.
That plastic cover doesn't fit tightly, I've seen this issue quite often during my many years of car repair. Most likely the plastic clips are broken - if you didn't carefully push the steering column cover into place during installation, you might have snapped the clips. Daily bumps and vibrations can also cause plastic components to loosen and deform, especially after summer heat exposure when plastic tends to shrink and warp. Dust or grime buildup in the clip slots may also prevent the cover from securing properly. I recommend regularly checking under the steering wheel and cleaning the gaps with a soft brush. If the cover is noticeably warped, it's best to visit a repair shop to replace either the clips or the entire cover, rather than letting small issues escalate and affect driving feel. Long-term neglect could even wear down internal wiring, leading to more serious malfunctions.
