Using Aftermarket Steering Wheels in Cars Safe?

Upgrade Your Driving Experience with Aftermarket Steering Wheels

The car steering wheel is the most intimately used point of contact between a driver and his or her vehicle.

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Although new cars have pre-assembled steering wheels, many enthusiasts upgrade or even change their factory-installed steering wheels to aftermarket ones in order to improve comfort and aesthetics.

Indeed, such improvements, including steering wheel covers, may enhance the driving experience dramatically.

Why do people replace steering wheels?

For several reasons, people replace their original steering wheel with a different one.

Some just want an upgrade in that it has issues, such as stiffness, misaligned, or the ball joint is almost worn out.

Others simply want to have a better look and drive from their vehicle.

Be it for comfort or style, an aftermarket steering wheel can bring you so many benefits, you’ll see through those changes.

Before You Mount An Aftermarket Steering Wheel-Things To Ponder On

Even though there are many options that take place with modification of after-market wheels, it is important to note that most of them do not have an airbag.

Most of the factory-installed wheels come with airbags to ensure safety, but the after-market wheels don’t.

It would therefore be important to look at this aspect before making the shift.

Key Reasons for Buying Aftermarket Steering Wheels

1. Improvement in Appearance

Most drivers opt to replace the original steering wheel just to improve the interior aesthetic appeal of their car.

There are plenty of options that vary in design, color, and material: carbon fiber, leather, suede, for example.

For colder periods, steering wheel covers provide an extra layer of warmth.

2. Customization and Flexibility

One of the fantastic advantages of aftermarket steering wheels is that they will enable owners to personalize their wheels to any preferred size and diameter based on his driving style.

Standard car owners mainly have their steering wheels ranging from 10 to 15 inches.

Sports cars tend to have a small diameter in terms of steering wheel size, ensuring that the driver has more control.

• Small Diameter Wheels: It actually provides more legroom and better response but may require more effort from the driver during the process.
• Large-Diameter Wheels: Easier to handle, better suited for those drivers who prefer comfort over performance. OEM steering wheels are usually larger to accommodate airbags.

3. Affordability

Coming to cost, aftermarket steering wheels are relatively cheaper than OEM types. However, always keep in mind the material quality, design, and overall longevity of an aftermarket steering wheel whenever you buy one. You want to always get your money’s worth.

How to Install an Aftermarket Steering Wheel

Now, if you have bought an aftermarket steering wheel, that’s a step by step installation guide.

Though, of course, it’s always better to seek the help of a professional mechanic at the job.

Step 1: Car Battery Removal

To make sure the airbag doesn’t inflate accidentally during the installation, disconnect the car battery first.

Step 2: Removal of Steering Wheel Cover

Next, take out the steering wheel cover. From here, disconnect the wiring that was attached to the airbag.

Step 3: Unbolt the Hub Bolt

Ensure that the car wheels, as well as the steering wheel, are straight. Use an Allen or socket wrench to unscrew the hub bolt and remove the existing steering wheel.

Step 4: Install the Hub Adapter

Get a compatible hub adapter for the car model. Mount it firmly before proceeding.

Step 5: Fit the New Steering Wheel

Mount your aftermarket steering wheel on the hub adapter, center it with your steering column. Change the battery and take it for a test drive to check steering and horn operation.

Pro Tip: Finally make sure to always give your vehicle a test drive to try out your new steering wheel at the end.

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