Installing a steering wheel cover may seem simple, but doing it correctly can make a significant difference in both the appearance and functionality of your car's interior. A well-fitted steering wheel cover can enhance the comfort and grip while driving, protect your steering wheel from wear and tear, and elevate the overall aesthetics of your vehicle.
In this guide, we will provide clear and straightforward instructions to help you install a steering wheel cover correctly, ensuring you reap all the benefits it offers.
Choose The Right Size
Before starting the installation process, it is crucial to choose the right size for the steering wheel cover. A cover that is too small can be nearly impossible to put on, while a cover that is too large will not fit snugly and may affect your driving experience.
To find the right size, follow these steps:
Step 1: Measure your steering wheel
Using a measuring tape, measure the outer diameter (edge to edge) of your steering wheel in inches or centimeters. Make sure to measure through the widest part of the wheel, which is usually at the center.
Step 2: Determine the grip circumference
Next, you'll need to measure the circumference of your steering wheel's grip. Using a measuring tape, wrap it around the grip to find the distance around it. This measurement is essential to ensure that the cover fits comfortably in your hands and provide adequate grip for safe driving.
Step 3: Choose a cover that matches your measurements
Now that you have the measurements, you can choose a steering wheel cover that matches your steering wheel's diameter and grip circumference. Many steering wheel covers will have their size specifications mentioned on their packaging or in the product descriptions when shopping online.
It is essential to choose a cover that is specifically designed for your steering wheel size and grip dimensions to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Preparing the Steering Wheel
Before starting the installation process, it's crucial to prepare your steering wheel properly. This step ensures that the cover will adhere correctly and reduces the risk of it slipping during use.
Cleaning the steering wheel
The first step is to clean the steering wheel thoroughly. Use a clean cloth and some mild cleaning solution, or a specific car interior cleaner if available, to wipe down the steering wheel. This step helps remove any built-up dirt, grease, or oils that could undermine the grip of the cover.
Pay special attention to the grip area of the most steering wheel covers as it tends to accumulate dirt and oils from the hands.
You can also read our guide on how to clean the car seat covers properly.
Drying the steering wheel
Once your steering wheel is clean, be sure to dry it fully. Any moisture left on the steering wheel can cause the cover to slip during installation, resulting in inaccurate fitting. A clean, dry microfiber cloth is perfect for this job because it absorbs moisture effectively without leaving lint behind.
Adjusting the temperature
The temperature of the steering wheel can significantly affect the installation process of the steering wheel cover. If it's too cold, the cover might be too tight, making it challenging to stretch over the wheel.
On the other hand, if it's too hot, the cover can become overly elastic and hard to control. Aim for a moderate temperature. If you're in cold weather, you might want to warm up your car interior a bit. If it's hot, let the steering wheel cool down before starting with the installation.
Unpacking and Warming Up the Steering Wheel Cover
Now that your steering wheel is ready, it's time to prepare the cover.
Unpacking the cover
Remove your steering wheel cover from its packaging smoothly, taking care not to stretch or distort it unnaturally, as it may affect its original shape and size. Lay it flat for a few minutes; this allows it to regain its form after being packed.
Warming up the cover
Heating the cover makes it more flexible and easier to work with. There are a few different ways you can do this. If you're at home, one of the easiest methods is to leave it in a warm room for a while. If you're outside or need to speed up the process, another way to warm the cover is by leaving it in the sunshine for a few minutes. This allows the cover to become stretchable, fitting more easily, smoothly and snugly over the steering wheel.
Remember, it's crucial not to overheat the cover, as it could damage the material or make it excessively elastic. Monitor the process carefully, and as soon as it's pliable enough to stretch over your steering wheel, it's ready for installation.
In the next section, we will guide you through the actual process of installing the steering wheel cover, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
How to Put the Steering Wheel Cover On?
Getting the steering wheel cover onto the wheel is the heart of the installation process. Following the appropriate steps carefully can make the process smooth, ensuring a secure and comfortable steering cover fit.
1. Align the cover
Firstly, hold the steering wheel cover with the seam at the bottom of the steering wheel. The seam is usually where the material is stitched together and it's typically intended to line up with the bottom of the wheel for an optimal fit.
2. Stretch the cover over the wheel
Now, place the top of the cover over the top of the steering wheel, then gradually stretch the entire cover over the wheel.
It might require quite a bit of strength to pull it down and around the wheel. When doing this, make sure to keep the cover straight and aligned with the wheel to ensure that it fits correctly.
3. Work it all the way around
Once the top part is securely in place, repeat the same action for the sides, gradually working it down around the wheel. At this point, you should be able to pull it down enough on one side to stretch the other side and fit over the rest of the wheel.
Remember, it's essential not to rush the process – take your time to ensure the cover goes on smoothly and accurately.
Adjusting the Cover on the Wheel
Once you've got the cover on the wheel, you may need to make some adjustments to ensure it's correctly positioned and the cover fits properly and comfortably in your hands.
1. Fine-tune the positioning
After installing, adjust the cover to make sure it's even all the way around the wheel. You can do this by gently twisting and turning the cover until it sits perfectly on the wheel. Check the alignment of the seams if any - they should be at the bottom of the wheel.
2. Test the fit
Next, move your hands around the wheel just as you would while driving, you should be able to grip most steering wheels comfortably without any loose areas. The cover should fit snugly over the steering wheel, without any loose sections, while still allowing you to grip the wheel properly for safe driving.
3. Final inspection
Finally, step back and take a look at the front stretch-style steering wheel cover to ensure it is evenly placed and visually pleasing. Does it look straight? Is it too tight or too loose in any areas? A well-fitted steering wheel cover not only enhances your driving experience but it also lifts the overall appearance of your car's interior.
Post Installation
The steering wheel cover installation process is not complete until you have confirmed that your new steering wheel cover ticks the boxes of grip, comfort, and appeal.
1. Checking the grip
Your steering wheel cover should have a firm, non-slip grip that allows you to maintain control of your vehicle at all times. Test this by driving your vehicle in a secure location, ensuring that your fingers do not slide, and you can hold the steering wheel grip even at different angles and positions firmly.
2. Assessing comfort
Comfort is subjective and personal. What one person finds comfortable, another might not. Spend some time driving with your new cover to ensure it feels good in your hands.
The material should feel pleasant, neither too hard nor too soft, and it should not dig into your hands or fingers while driving.
3. Visual appeal examinations
Beyond functionality, a steering wheel cover should enhance your vehicle's aesthetic. Step back and take a good look at it, ideally in daylight. Does it suit your vehicle's interior? Are you happy with how it looks? A visually appealing steering wheel cover is one that complements your car's interiors and personal style.
4. Maintenance and care
To keep your steering wheel cover looking new and performing well, you need to clean and maintain it regularly. The cleaning process will largely depend on the cover's material but usually involves a gentle surface cleaning using a mild detergent solution and a soft cloth.
Ensure it is fully dry before using your vehicle. Proper maintenance can dramatically extend the lifespan of your cover and keep it looking its best.
Conclusion
Installing a steering wheel cover correctly is more than a visual upgrade; it also enhances your drive's control and comfort. From measuring your steering wheel and choosing the right cover to the actual purchase and installation process, every step is crucial. And, post-installation, taking good care of your cover will make sure it remains in excellent condition for longer.
We encourage you to take your time with this process, ensuring each stage is carried out thoroughly for the best results. And if you're still looking for a premium quality steering wheel cover, we recommend our luxury steering wheel covers available at Seat Cover Solutions. Their expert design ensures easy installation, superb grip, and an elegant appearance, making your driving experience safer, more comfortable, and more stylish. Happy driving!
FAQs
What's the easiest way to put a steering wheel cover on?
The easiest way is to first warm up the cover to make it more flexible. Then, align the cover with the wheel starting from the top and gradually stretch it down and around the full wheel ensuring an even and smooth fit.
Why is my steering wheel cover hard to put on?
It might be because the steering wheel cover is too tight or cold. When it's too tight, it lacks the necessary stretch to fit onto the wheel. If it's cold, the material becomes stiffer. Heating the cover gently can make it more pliable, ensuring easier installation.
How do you position a steering wheel cover?
Start by aligning the cover's seam (if any) at the bottom of the steering wheel. Then place the cover over the top of the wheel, stretching it gradually down over the wheel, ensuring a smooth fit. Adjust it until it sits perfectly on the wheel.
How do you put a car wheel cover on?
Clean and dry the steering wheel first. Warm up the steering wheel cover to make it flexible, align it at the top of the steering wheel, and gradually stretch it down over the entire wheel. Adjust until it fits smoothly and snugly.
What is the trick to putting a steering wheel cover on?
The trick to installing a steering wheel cover smoothly is to heat it a bit beforehand. This makes the material more flexible, easier to stretch, and fit over the wheel. However, be cautious not to overheat it as that might damage the material or make it too elastic.
What is the easiest way to put a steering wheel cover on?
The easiest way is to warm the cover and ensure it's flexible. Start from the top part of the steering wheel, then gradually put the cover on, moving it down around the wheel evenly.
Are there different size steering wheel covers?
Yes, steering wheels and their covers (such as leather steering wheel covers) come in different sizes to fit different steering wheel diameters. It's essential to measure your steering wheel carefully and choose a cover size that matches it for an optimal fit.
