Preserve Steering Wheel Finish/Appearance

galaxy

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How do you (if it's even possible) preserve that quality, gorgeous, satin finish/appearance on a nice, brand-new, leather steering wheel? Seems like you always see leather steering wheels (even in exact same cars) with that worn down look. The main thing I want to avoid is that shiny look they all seem to get! I hate that. Is keeping it clean key? I'd imagine they get a lot of dirt, grime, oils, and everything else off your hands. Are steering wheels coated like modern day leather seats are?
 
Cleaning is very important. The shine is left over body oils and things.

I've found Meguiars Ultimate spray wax / D156 to not add a lot of slippery feel to steering wheels. Clean very well first before applying.
 
I've been satisfied with Wolfgang Leather Cleaner, then Wolfgang Leather Conditioner, every 2-3 weeks. Wheel stays like new.
 
Cleaning is very important. The shine is left over body oils and things.

I've found Meguiars Ultimate spray wax / D156 to not add a lot of slippery feel to steering wheels. Clean very well first before applying.
You put D156 on a leather steering wheel?
 
Or you may consider doing what I did.

Since I am known for keeping a vehicle forever. I always purchase a few thing that I just know are going to look like crap in fifteen years or so. I bought a drivers seat cover, a horn pad, a steering wheel, a window switch cluster, knobs for the light, AC, and temp controls. And since I was buying the vehicle new I told the salesman that I wanted dealer cost on the spare parts as part of "the deal" That particular vehicle has now been in my garage for 25 years. Since I use it only for hauling big stuff or a trailer I see no need to buy a fancy new one.

And that is how I keep the steering wheel looking like new.:laughing:
 
I've had leather steering wheels for over 20 years and all have held up well. I follow a few simple guidelines that have worked well for me. First, avoid a death grip on the wheel. I've done some competitive driving and like a pool cue or golf club, a light grip offers the quickest reaction time and better steering feel, not to mention reducing wear. I'm in the car business and have seen many a steering wheel seriously worn from people clutching the wheel like someone's trying to take it from them. Secondly, keep it clean. A couple times a year I do a serious cleaning/coating. For years I used Lexol, but lately it's been Leather Masters. Maintenance, however has been very regular, at least bi-weekly. I keep a small bottle of Opti-Clean in my console and I'll give the wheel a quick wipe when I'm stuck in traffic or waiting to pick up someone. My current DD is a 2007 and the wheel still looks and feels near-new.

Bill
 
Another option is to install a wheel skins cover to preserve the original.
 
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