Steering Wheels

Steering Wheels are one of the most easily overlooked aspects of driving comfort. Like any other car part, they can become worn and unattractive with age. Luckily, there are many choices available for anyone looking for a change.

Aftermarket Steering Wheels

• A sport steering wheel can be a great way to dress up the interior of any car. However, buyers should be aware that not all steering wheels will simply "bolt up" to their steering column. Often, custom adapter plates are required to securely attach a new wheel. Buyers should check with equipment vendors to determine if a plate is needed for their vehicle. Many quality vendors will offer any needed components at the time of purchase.


• Sport wheels that are not a direct factory replacement may require some wiring work to make non-standard horn buttons operate correctly. This is an important factor to consider, as an inoperative horn will result in a safety inspection failure.

Safety

• Great care should be taken when choosing an aftermarket steering wheel. Some wheels (regardless of price or manufacturer) may not meet state safety requirements for size, and many will not have any way to integrate the factory airbag. Additionally, factory steering wheels are designed to deform in the event of an accident. It is important to find a replacement wheel that will preform the same function.


• Removal of the airbag will result in the illumination of a warning light. This is a safety feature meant to monitor the condition of the factory airbag electronics.


• It is possible to add an airbag to a vehicle without factory equipped devices, but systems are often not cost effective. Generally, the best way to upgrade is to purchase a more modern vehicle.

With a bit of careful consideration, any motorist can purchase an aftermarket or replacement steering wheel that will deliver as many worry free miles as the well-seasoned unit they plan to upgrade.