Any tips on keeping new OEM steering wheel Matte?

[ando]

Originally Posted by Ajolives

That's it right there. I like how the textured leather (pleather?) is just as matte as the actual leather. I'm guessing you used it on everything?

Yep. This is the system which works for me.

On steering wheel:
•Leather Master Soft Cleaner

On all other leather:
•Leather Master Soft Cleaner
•Leather Master Leather Protection Cream

[dparm]

Originally Posted by Ajolives

First off, I've been reading around (plenty of posts already) and I'm thinking a weekly or biweekly wash with warm, soapy water and is in order.

There's a bunch of suggestions but I guess I'd just like to know if someone out there has kept the leather almost new over the years and would like to share how they did it.

Where I fall on my face is what protectant/cleaner to use, or if it's even recommended. I've used leatherique on my seats a couple times and it worked well, although the seats are not in the best condition and it did take some dye off.

I bought a F10 shift knob two years ago and it's kinda shiny already so either I wasn't washing it enough or using the wrong products or both.

This was a little longer than I anticipated, but appreciate any feedback, thanks!

Don't touch it? Seriously. The constant friction from your hands, coupled with any surface grime on them will effectively "polish" the leather over time. This is why the driver's seat tends to get shiny too: your pants are polishing the leather any time you shift in the seat (or get in/out).

Only thing you can do is just clean it periodically with a mild leather cleaner and make sure your hands aren't filthy.

[drwankel]

Cleaning and conditioning the leather is the trick. Mine looks almost new at 60K. Every time I've cleaned it, it's amazing how much dirt comes out of it.

The other thing I will say is helpful, is trying to just have clean, not sweaty hands to begin with when you are driving the car. Anything that is on your hands is going to get mashed or absorbed into the leather of the wheel. I'll usually make the effort to wash my hands after eating if I am driving the car for example.

The steering wheel condition can give you a big clue about how the owner took care of the car. If that steering wheel is still matte, I'd bet the owner took pretty good care of the rest of the car. If the wheel was shiny, I'd be immediately questioning how well the car was used and maintained.

[Z K]

My 2008 still has matte finish like it did brand new. I clean it with leather masters leather cleaner every few months. Applying most protectants make the wheel feel sticky or harder so I avoid that. Avoid anything abrasive - don't wear rings or have any hard surfaces contact the leather. Even rough skin can damage the leather over time.

I also make sure my hands are clean when driving. i.e. wash your hands after eating or touching stuff. Wipe sweat off your hands on your pants before touching the wheel. Or use gloves as others suggest. I wear gloves on track days when I know I'm pushing the car hard and can sweat more than usual. It is usually 60-70 degree temps here so I rarely sweat on my hands in normal driving.

[Ajolives]

Just finished a wipe down and after about 7 months it's still pretty clean and matte. I've found warm water wrung out of a thick microfiber really goes a long way, especially cause it's free. Even works on the dash and door cards.

Just grabbed some masters leather cleaner and giving that a try. Still plan on doing the coulour lock system as well - partially cause I plan on using their products to restore my seats down the road. I used Lexol products from advance auto and wasn't a fan.

[Helmsman]

Originally Posted by Ajolives

Just finished a wipe down and after about 7 months it's still pretty clean and matte. I've found warm water wrung out of a thick microfiber really goes a long way, especially cause it's free. Even works on the dash and door cards.

Just grabbed some masters leather cleaner and giving that a try. Still plan on doing the coulour lock system as well - partially cause I plan on using their products to restore my seats down the road. I used Lexol products from advance auto and wasn't a fan.

wheel looks brand new, well done!

[Ajolives]

Almost a year in, I've tried a bunch of different products but came full circle back to Leatherique and hot water rinse. I've got a stubborn spot where my left thumb goes and will reapply for a day or two.

[WArthog]

What should I do if my steering wheel is screwed up already? There are cracks all over the wheel, and chips in the top coat are coming out.

[shimmy23]

Originally Posted by WArthog

What should I do if my steering wheel is screwed up already? There are cracks all over the wheel, and chips in the top coat are coming out.

buy a new wheel and start fresh with proper care