Leather steering wheel restore

[Nikonite]

My steering wheel is quite dull around the rim but shiny in the little used parts. Does anyone know if its possible to restore the dull parts?

[mandp]

A photo would be useful.

[Dinski]

My steering wheel is quite dull around the rim but shiny in the little used parts. Does anyone know if its possible to restore the dull parts?

Are you saying you want a shiny steering wheel?

[ChrisRs]

As said..Dont you mean, restore the shiny parts?

[Nikonite]

No the shiny parts seem to be the original look, the edges are sort of Matt and worn. I'll take a photo tomorrow

[neiln]

Is it real leather?  If so then it needs to be fed/nourished like any leather product, to stop it drying out.  Try hide food, or saddle soap.  These will clean and nourish, but damage can't be repaired.

[Nikonite]

It is leather yes, it has just lost some of its black dye I think as it looks more grey. I think it may also be dirty as it's not smooth like where the spokes meet the rim.

[simonsheil]

http://www.leatherrepaircompany.com/product-category/leather-repair-restoration/

Not used them yet, but going to be ordering in the near future to have a go on some bolster wear.

[neiln]

Forgot to say, careful applying stuff to the steering wheel, some treatments may leave it slippy for a short while which isn't good.

 

For colour restoration I'd look a product like a shoe leather dye. http://www.timpson.co.uk/shop/c/20/shoe-care/s/117/shoe-dye/g/154/leather-shoe-dye/p/964/dylon-leather-shoe-dye-black

 

Buy try it cautiously on a small, inconspicuous spot.

[ChrisRs]

A quick look on eBay has revealed this: You might want to consider?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_nkw=leather+steering+wheel+restoration

[Richf]

On my phone at the moment but there is a good thread on a BMW forum where the owner used a magic eraser/sponge , have a Google

[Nikonite]

Picture as promised, it's in sunlight which shows the problem but exaggerates it somewhat. Will have a look at solutions offered. Hopefully you can see the shine I spoke of, I did look at dye products but couldn't see any mention of the finish. Thanks

[samuir1974]

Picture as promised, it's in sunlight which shows the problem but exaggerates it somewhat. Will have a look at solutions offered. Hopefully you can see the shine I spoke of, I did look at dye products but couldn't see any mention of the finish. Thanks

 

Wow - that "looks" quite severe! :peek:

 

Is the dull area - dirt and grime on the surface... or more that the material surface is actually worn and disintegrating?

[Richf]

Think that may be beyond hope but I have used this method before

 

 

The magic erasers are quite abrasive so be gentle , afterward allow the wheel to dry fully and then give it a generous coat of a leather conditioner well rubbed in

 

Gliptone conditioner is very good http://www.liquidleather.com/car-shop.html failing that the Autoglym stuff is readily available

 

I suspect however you would be better doing something like this

 

[neiln]

I think that damage is the top layer of leather has been worn away. (probably a treatment on a cheap leather rather than the top of full grain leather). That will be tough to repair.  Let us know what you try and how you get on.

[Titanium_Man]

On my phone at the moment but there is a good thread on a BMW forum where the owner used a magic eraser/sponge , have a Google

I've also seen one used on here to good effect, so I've bought one ready for when I'm ready.

[Nikonite]

It is definitely the top layer worn away, it's a genuine skoda wheel so not sure what the leather is. I think Richf is right the second kit looks the best option if it doesn't work it's a good excuse to upgrade me thinks . Thanks guys

[Dinski]

Wow, I'm guessing it's quite old? I would you autoglym leather care products on it. But don't expect miracles as that looks a real mess.

[Sparkly]

That looks entirely goosed my friend.

The wheel has gone full circle from matte leather from factory to a big build up of oils from your hands sending it shiny and then has worn back to matte. This looks like material that has abraded away over time. Just how old is the car/wheel?

That need a retrim or a new wheel.

Or leave it as it is, cleaning products will soak into that porous surface and cause more issues I think.

[Nikonite]

The outcome of this is one I am happy with. I bought the wheel restore kit and after lots of prep, degreasing, light sanding, 5 coats of dye and 4 coats of sealer I am very happy. The kit came with both matt and gloss sealer and as I had two wheels I did one of each. I think I am decided on the matt but that may change. Very pleased though.

[NorthernMonkey]

Good save, well done

[Nikonite]

Cheers saved a few bob

[samuir1974]

The outcome of this is one I am happy with. I bought the wheel restore kit and after lots of prep, degreasing, light sanding, 5 coats of dye and 4 coats of sealer I am very happy. The kit came with both matt and gloss sealer and as I had two wheels I did one of each. I think I am decided on the matt but that may change. Very pleased though.

 

 

Nice job mate - and a great result.

 

Thanks for sharing

[KBPhoto]

Given the condition they were in, that is a top job. And for a good price. Well done.

[ChrisRs]

Great work

Well done