Timbo1980 wrote:Hi all,
On a slightly different topic, does anyone know if its possible to replace the leather part of an 2013 SR5 steering wheel with a vinyl version, without changing any of the other components of the steering wheel (wiring, buttons, position sensor etc)? The buttons I have on the wheel are audio, phone, 'mode' and the cruise control stick.
After 230k kms the leather on mine is badly worn, and I am planning to keep this car pretty much forever, so I would like something more durable. I did ask an auto sparky at one stage if it could be done and he said due to the SR5 having stability control etc, there were position sensors in the steering wheel and that wouldn't be compatible with any of the vinyl replacements. What I am wondering is if there is any way to replace just the leather wrapped part of the wheel with vinyl, but leave all the buttons and electronics the same?
Cheers.
Interesting Query. Dad had a Ford Exploder years ago and the vinyl cover wore through to expose the buttons underneath. I think from memory it was cruise control stuff. Never really did anything with it, but one idea might be to look for a decent upholsterer and see if they can do anything with it? The main issue you'll face is likely to be having to remember where the buttons are actually located under the new cover you get.
One thing I might mention is that I think you'd be better getting leather if you can, vinyl can dry out and crack quite quickly ... especially if you're in a dry climate area. Leather on the other hand can last extremely long time, especially if you keep it treated with good quality leather protection creams. The name of which escapes me right this second and it's too cold outside for me to go out to the shed right now and check.