Steering wheel cover: how to choose the best (comfort + safety) in Portugal

Steering wheel cover: how to choose the best (comfort + safety) in Portugal

A steering wheel cover is one of the cheapest accessories with the biggest impact on daily use: it improves grip, reduces wear and tear, and makes driving more comfortable in both hot and cold weather. But it only works well if it meets two rules: the right size and a firm grip .

1) Why is it worth using a steering wheel cover?

  • Protects the original steering wheel (especially "soft touch" parts that peel).

  • Improves grip during urban driving.

  • It helps with thermal comfort (less "freezing" in winter, less "boiling" in summer).

2) Safety first: what you should NOT do

A) Avoid slippery covers

If the cap rotates or "moves" in your hands, it's dangerous: it hinders micro-corrections and can be distracting. The right choice is exact size + material with good grip.

B) Do not place accessories in the airbag area.

Decorative decals placed in the center of the steering wheel (above the logo) can become projectiles when the airbag deploys. The NHTSA has issued public warnings about decorative decals on steering wheels that have caused serious injuries when the airbag has been deployed.

Simple rule: the steering wheel can have a rim cover, but don't touch/add anything to the center (airbag).

3) How to measure the steering wheel (and not get it wrong)

Search the product page:

  • compatible diameter (e.g., 37–39 cm, 39–41 cm, etc.)

  • “elasticity” and type of fixation

How to measure in 30 seconds:

  • It measures the diameter from end to end of the steering wheel (the outer part of the rim).

If you are "between sizes," choose the size that fits most snugly , as long as it is recommended by the manufacturer.

4) Materials: which to choose (pros and cons)

Synthetic leather (PU)

  • Premium look and easy to clean.

  • It can get quite hot in the sun; look for perforated/non-slip models.

Textured silicone / rubber

  • Excellent grip.

  • Simpler design; widely used for daily driving.

Fabric / microfiber

  • Comfortable and "less hot".

  • It can get dirty faster; it needs washing.

Ideally in Portugal: non-slip surface + easy to clean (for daily use).

5) Correct installation (so it doesn't come loose)

Quick method:

  1. Slightly warm the cover in the sun (if it's rigid) — it becomes more pliable;

  2. First, secure the top part of the steering wheel;

  3. It goes down and adjusts with both hands;

  4. It confirms that it neither rotates nor creates "folds".

If it still wobbles after installation, replace it with a better size/material.

6) Maintenance and hygiene (yes, this matters)

The steering wheel accumulates sweat and grease, which reduces grip.

Simple routine:

  • Clean once a week with a damp cloth;

  • Once a month: deeper cleaning (depending on the material).

FAQ — Steering wheel covers

Does a steering wheel cover damage the original steering wheel?
Normally not. The biggest risk is using a cheap cover that doesn't fit properly and creates friction. Replace it if there are any gaps.

Can I use any "universal" cover?
Yes, but only if the size is right and it doesn't slip. Safety > aesthetics.

And what about "bling" / decals in the center of the steering wheel?
Avoid it. There are official safety warnings about this type of accessory due to the risk of airbag deployment.