Leather Steering Wheel Re-Wrap

[ErikA]

I thought I should give a plug for a new leather repair/upholstery guy, Pavel, operating locally: @leather_monkey_studio on Instagram / text 672-552-3303.  He recently re-wrapped a wheel for my car. 

The cost was significantly cheaper than the new-from-dealer wheels I purchased in the past from Porsche/BMW. 

He uses a special steering wheel specific hide imported from Germany used by the OEMs and can work to customize to suit or just do a nice OEM or OEM+ retrim. A nice upgrade for something you touch the whole time you're driving.  Will add some before and after pics when I install it (bought a worn out eBay core for $50). 10/10 would recommend!

 

[al k]

Thanks Eric! That wheel looks awesome...

Al

[ErikA]

Thanks Al!  Here's the before and after of the install.  Doesn't really do it justice, but suffice it to say, the feel/quality of what Subaru gives you versus what the German manufacturers do is a world of difference.  And you're touching it the whole time you're behind the wheel so it better be nice.  Pavel could have matched the perforated sides if I wanted by I prefer the feel of smooth leather.  Super happy with it!

 

[DavidM]

Did you have any challenges removing and reconnecting the airbag, horn, and controls?  I might explore options to wrap the wheel on my 993.

[ErikA]

Getting the airbag out is pretty straightforward - just make sure to disconnect the battery first!  In the 993/996 they're held in with torx screws, which makes the job easy.  In many other cars, they're held in by spring loaded bars and you have to figure out the right angle to fish your flathead into the back of the steering wheel to release them.  The rest is straightforward - generally the controls are held in with small screws that are accessible once the wheel is off and the plastic cover on the back is removed.

[ErikA]

Here's a good write up for the 993 on Rennlist: https://rennlist.com/forums/993-forum/902847-993-996-steering-wheel-removal-and-installation.html

[CarreraGT]

I've been following this guy for a bit. His work looks very nice.