Preserve Steering Wheel Finish/Appearance

[galaxy]

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?

[Tempest45]

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.

[SYMAWD]

Clean it often.

[texasgibby]

I've been satisfied with Wolfgang Leather Cleaner, then Wolfgang Leather Conditioner, every 2-3 weeks. Wheel stays like new.

[galaxy]

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?

[Cliffnopus]

How about: Wash your hands before you go for a drive?

[oldmodman]

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.

[PA DETAILER]

Clean it often. Mine still looks new! I use the Mckees below. Has a cleaner in it too.

McKee's 37 Interior Surface Protectant is a multi-surface shield for your vehicle’s interior. In addition to protectants, McKee's 37 Interior Surface

[BillyJack]

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

[The Guz]

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