2011 Prius IV. My steering wheel has worn down on the very top and has about a 2" tear in the leather now. Is there a way to repair this? Has anyone just removed all the leather and replaced it somehow?
I had a cover on my first car (1989 Ford Escort!) that worn down and hated it, it made the steering wheel too thick and uncomfortable for my hands.
If you search, you can find leather replacements. And youtube has a LOT of videos of people replacing them. You must have patience, and patience…...
Thanks, just watched a few. Yeah I don't know if I have that kind of patience (or skill for that matter). I did see one for a very thin cover, that may have to work.
IMO, replace the steering wheel with a compatible one in good condition. Junkyard or person parting a car out. I did this on my Fusion (RIP). It's worth it. I messed around with covers on an old Accord I had. Getting a new (good used) wheel is a better fix.
I think a restoration specialist would probably cement a patch under the tear, and find a way to close up the gap, while the cement solidifies. How that could be done, I have no idea.
I didn't think of that... but how is that done when you have an airbag there? Is it easy enough to switch out? Sounds complicated just thinking about it.
I don't know how difficult it would be to remove the steering wheel cover, but if it's too difficult, I might consider closing the gap with a temporary adhesive while the patch under the tear solidifies.
You could try and auto leather repair shop, or service. I knew a man years ago that did that, and it was amazing all the things he could do to repair all the stuff. AND, it looked great!
Watch a YouTube on it. Generally it's not too hard. I haven't done a gen 3, but I had to remove my son's gen 2 steering wheel when we did the evap core. There will be several electrical connectors. Airbags are pretty easy in my experience. But there is some danger with them.
