I really am enjoying my Prius III, but I can't stand the steering wheel (I almost bought a GTI instead as it has such an awesome wheel!)...it seemed silly to pay $2000 more for a IV, when the only real benefit for me was the wheel (I actually prefer the cloth seats). So what are my options? Wheelskins seem impossible to install, and also have mixed reviews... Any other options here? I really don't want to spend $800 for a new wheel... Aftermarket specialists here in LA? Thanks.
It's my number one issue with the Prius. My hands feel weird - in not a good way... I just noticed these: Toyota Prius 10 Wood Effect Steering Wheel Cover | eBay They come in black 'wood', or a normal wood tone..... I'm guessing I'll have to buy them - because it helps the front - but really I hate hate the back feel - maybe these with something else on the back (you can't see that side)????????????
So I have one of these inbound (price is $39.99 - but Ebay accepted bid was $30). I'm kinda excited about the thing - figure I can glue leather to the back (can't see it), and it should be a nice smooth steering wheel?????
I can't see it being a nice smooth steering wheel given that the wood parts stick out in several places and your hands are going to hit them all the time. Why not just have a shop professionally wrap it in leather?
Currently, I have one of those cheapo padded vinyl covers with the wraparound lacing. Tacky-yes, comfortable-yes. I'm still looking for something better, I can't check out Ebay from my work (blocked) but, I do have the address now and can check it from home. Let me know how you like it.
I dislike my steering wheel, but for a different reason. I wish the wheel spokes spacing gave me more room to rest my hand/wrists, yet still let me grasp the steering wheel. Maybe the spokes could have been placed at the top of the wheel. I do like the fact that the steering wheel is thick. The thickness makes for a more reactive grip regardless if it's plastic, leather or wood simulated.
One of the reasons I bought the Prius was the modern and original looking steering wheel. I think it suits the modern style of the Prius.
I also dislike my steering wheel. When cruising, I like to rest my hands on the bottom of the wheel, but it hurts my hands on long trips on the Prius's 4 spoke wheel. Two things I would have wished for: thumb rests and a 3 spoke wheel.
some people complain about the texture of the steering wheel. put some water on your hands and go driving. you will then understand that toyota did it for a reason.
You HATE your steering wheel? Don't you think it knows that? I think you need to change your attitude. They can sense those feelings. You get back what you project... I'd say, some counseling...some group led discussions in a steering wheel hatred support group. "Hello, my name is Manku, and I have a hard time coming to grips with my steering wheel." Seriously? You have options. I've actually heard good things about Wheelskins. Uniformly, the stories are that installation is time consuming and requires sacrifice, BUT most stories I've read people are ultimately happy with the end results. I think you have options, but if wheel covers aren't one's you are willing to accept, then options in the "budget realm" may become limited.
Just a dumb question...can you get a IV steering wheel from Toyota and install it on a III/II?? If someone really hates the II/III steering wheel, then it should be an option (if doable).
^^ It should be do able in theory. However, I haven't found any US wheels. From what I've found the JDM wheel works but there's an airbag issue or something making it dangerous. Not sure exactly though. Someone wants to let me borrow their wheel, I'll test it on my car. I have no problem taking it apart and putting it back haha
