Steering wheel braid is a fairly popular and widely purchased car accessory. There are many reasons why drivers decide to buy it: a thirst for aesthetics, comfort, a desire to update the appearance of a familiar steering wheel or to preserve the presentation of the car interior for as long as possible, since the steering wheel is perhaps the most noticeable element of the car interior.
However, there are a number of difficult aspects in choosing a braid for a steering wheel, such as the choice of size, braid material, its design, color and method of fixation. Some steering wheel covers are quite easy to put on (provided the size is correctly selected), while others require quite a long and painstaking work on braiding the steering wheel using special ropes or threads.
From this article you will learn how to choose the size of the steering wheel according to the make of the car, what material should be preferred and how to properly put on and cover the steering wheel.
Steering wheels on a VAZ. Which one should I replace the standard one with?
The VAZ car became the best in the Soviet automobile industry, and its popularity is still quite high.
This is partly due to the high saturation of the market with these cars. They are available to almost every resident of the country, which is why they have become the “people's working” transport. Today, spare parts for VAZ are in demand, because so many cars needing maintenance require a large volume of parts. Among them is the steering wheel, some buy it simply to replace the old one, while others decide to embellish the interior a little, buying the steering wheel only for the purpose of some kind of tuning. It is important to consider that almost all steering wheels are interchangeable; in some cases you just need to use additional bushings.
Steering wheels for VAZ classic
VAZ classic includes all models up to 2108. Classic cars are more suitable for steering wheels in their own style, that is, without backlights and everything else. Steering wheels that are best suited are either strictly designed - dark, leather-trimmed, or made to look modern with wood-like plastic inserts or stainless steel metal inserts. Classics are attractive to some car enthusiasts only because they can still invariably retain their excellent appearance, even among modern foreign cars.
Classic VAZ 2107 steering wheel, fits VAZ 2101 - 2106 without any modifications
Option of a new steering wheel for VAZ classic No. 2
Option of a new steering wheel for VAZ classic No. 3
Classic style, not only in motoring, is an ageless style. Therefore, a well-maintained 2106 or 2101 has an excellent appearance and attracts with its style and shape, unusual for modern times.
Steering wheels for VAZ 2108 - 2109
VAZ2108 - 2109 cars are created in a more modern style, so so-called “racing steering wheels” are often used for such cars. Its main difference is its size, it’s just a little smaller in diameter.
Steering wheel for VAZ 2108, 2109, 21099 No. 1
Steering wheel for VAZ 2108, 2109, 21099 No. 2
Of course, it’s harder to make turns with such a steering wheel, there is less force available, but after driving a little, you get used to it, and it turns out to be much more convenient than the usual classic steering wheel. The fact is that with habit, the driver notices how much more comfortable and agile the steering wheel becomes. Although the gear ratio from the shaft does not change, the diameter of the steering wheel changes, and this gives a feeling of better sensitivity in driving the car.
Steering wheels for VAZ 2110 – 2112
These models are built using many modern inventions in the automotive industry, and the car body itself is made in a modern manner. Therefore, they are often tuned for sports cars using a variety of lights, both inside and outside, directly on the body. The right colors and well-placed LED strips can really transform a car. The steering wheels are also backlit.
Steering wheel option for VAZ 2110 - 2112, No. 1
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Steering wheel option for VAZ 2110 - 2112, No. 1
The steering wheel is made of transparent material, usually a silicone layer is applied to a metal frame, into which LEDs are mounted, arranged in such a way that when illuminated, it would seem that the steering wheel is glowing like one single lamp. Of course, there are other worthy solutions, so it's all a matter of taste.
Steering wheels for VAZ 2113 – 2115
The VAZ 2113 – 2115 models are created on the basis of modern cars, which ensures comfort and convenience when driving it. The body and chassis are more perfectly designed. Such cars are often left as is, that is, when buying a steering wheel, they choose classic options, with imitation wood and rich leather.
Steering wheel for VAZ 2113, 2114, 2115, option No. 1
Steering wheel for VAZ 2113, 2114, 2115, option No. 2
Some people decide to decorate the interior in a racing style, in which case they choose the most modern models, here you only need to focus on the price, that is, how much you are willing to pay for a new steering wheel for your car. Modern manufacturers produce a huge assortment of car steering wheels, so there is simply no point in describing each of them; there are certain main differences between the models, but in general, any of the proposed steering wheels can be installed on any car produced by VAZ.
How to replace a steering wheel
The whole process is divided into several stages:
- Preparatory:
- Disconnect the battery by removing the negative terminal. If this is not done, a signal will sound when unscrewing the central nut with a screwdriver.
Remove the negative terminal of the battery
- Remove the ignition key from the lock.
- Lightly turn the steering wheel to lock the steering column.
- Place two marks: one on the steering wheel, the other on the dashboard so that they coincide in direction.
- Withdrawal.
- Installation.
Dismantling
To remove the steering wheel on a VAZ-2113, 2114, 2115 car, you need to:
- Using a flat-head screwdriver, pry off the plastic trim that is installed on the steering wheel cover. It is enough to press the latches. Act carefully so as not to break.
Removing the decorative trim
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws.
Unscrew the screws securing the steering wheel cover
- Remove the cover.
Remove the cover
- Place the socket head 24 on the knob and release the central nut.
Release the central nut
Attention! For safety reasons, it is recommended not to completely unscrew the nut so that it does not injure the driver when removing it.
- Holding the steering wheel with your hands and rocking it to the sides, remove it from the central shaft.
Removing the steering wheel
- It happens that it is not possible to immediately disassemble the steering wheel. A hammer and a drift come to the rescue. Place a piece of metal against the end of the central shaft, then use sharp and gentle blows of a hammer on the drift to move the steering wheel.
Removing the steering wheel from the center shaft using a hammer
- Salon VAZ 2110
Note! Help from a second person will be helpful. The process will speed up if an assistant pulls the steering wheel towards you at the moment of impact.
Installation
After removing the old steering wheel, you need to install a new part.
To install the steering wheel, you must:
- transfer the mark marked on the removable sample to the new copy;
- place the steering wheel on the central shaft so that the marks match;
Installing a new steering wheel according to the marks
- tighten the nut.
Tighten the nut
When choosing a product, you must carefully look at the compliance of the purchased item with the requirements of the manufacturer.
Replacing the steering wheel for VAZ 2113, 2114, 2115
Sometimes there are models of domestic VAZs in which, instead of a standard steering wheel, there is a representative of a prestigious car brand. This is the desire of the car owner to make his car more convenient, to give it individuality, to feel like driving a racing car. Removing the steering wheel on a VAZ and installing a new one is not a difficult task, but there are some nuances that vehicle drivers need to know about.
When to change your steering wheel
A car steering wheel is not a consumable item. It lasts as long as the car lasts. Therefore, there are no specific requirements for replacing the steering wheel on a VAZ.
The only reasons for removing the old model can be:
- the desire of the car owner to add new notes to the interior;
- make control comfortable;
- deformation due to an accident.
Required Tools
To remove a standard steering wheel and then install another one, you will need:
- Screwdriver Set;
- knob;
- socket heads;
- cloth, napkins for cleaning dust.
It will be useful to prepare a metal blank and a hammer, since there is a possibility that the wheel will not be easily removed from the central shaft.
- Tuning VAZ 2111: options for modifying the body, interior and engine
What is the diameter of the VAZ 2107 steering wheel
Car steering is one of the important mechanisms of any vehicle. It includes several components that are responsible for moving the car in the direction specified by the driver. An integral part of the steering mechanism is the steering wheel. Its presence allows you to control the front axle and steer the wheels.
VAZ 2107 steering wheel
The steering wheel is connected to the steering gearbox through an intermediate shaft. The entire steering design is designed to transfer the rotational force of the steering wheel shaft into a similar rotational force of the bipod shaft. When the steering gear lever turns and the steering linkage is applied, the front wheels rotate.
A car steering wheel is a frame with a hub, rim and spokes. On the VAZ 2107, the steering wheel has 4 spokes, and the rim itself is made of special rubber. The steering wheel size on this car is 400 mm. This diameter is quite large by today's standards, but turning the steering wheel is not difficult. There is a pressure element on the steering wheel that allows you to turn on the sound signal.
Is it possible to install from another car?
The steering wheel on the VAZ 2107 differs from the steering wheel of the same “penny” or “six” in its more attractive appearance and comfortable grip. If for some reason the standard steering wheel does not suit you, there are options for replacing it with a part from other cars:
- "Kalina", "Priora", VAZ 2115;
- products from Chinese manufacturers;
- steering wheels from the “sport” category of such well-known brands as Sparco, Momo, etc.
How to trim a steering wheel correctly?
It's time to move directly to covering our steering wheel with the purchased braid, or to putting on a cover. As mentioned above, this activity is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. To simplify the whole process, I have prepared special photo instructions.
How to put the cover on the steering wheel?
The cover is pulled over the steering wheel from top to bottom. It is better when two people participate in this process: one fixes the cover at one point, preventing it from slipping and warping, and the second carefully tightens it. Sometimes the cover is put on quite tightly, and it is impossible to do without male strength.
How to cover a steering wheel with braid?
The process of tightening the cover may seem like a small thing to you compared to the complexity of covering the steering wheel with a thread and a needle. There are many methods, each of which depends on the individual characteristics of a particular braid model. I will suggest one method.
First, we put our cover on the steering wheel. In the case itself, holes for threads are already made in advance, because... the leather is quite thick, and it will be very difficult to pierce it on the steering wheel (all the work will “go away” and don’t expect a good effect.). In one place our thread with a knot is pierced, and the process of covering the steering wheel has begun.
This cladding method is the simplest, fastest and does not require special skills.
However, this cross method looks much more attractive. This stitch completely replicates the cross stitch method.
There is also this method.
This article was about how to choose a steering wheel braid. Ride in comfort!
Select the steering wheel braid of the required size and securely place it on the steering wheel
In one of the previous articles, we told you how not to make a mistake when choosing a steering wheel braid. Now, let's find out how to choose the required braid size, after which we will tell you about the unwritten rules for putting braid on the steering wheel.
Selecting the right size braid
There are two parameters by which the size of the braids is determined. The first is the diameter of the steering wheel, the second is the width of the rim circumference. If you don’t know the parameters of the steering wheel in your car, then there is one correct solution. Take a tape measure, sit in the car and measure the steering wheel. All is ready. Now you have all the necessary data on hand. If the car is not near you or you are buying a braid as a gift for someone, everything is a little more complicated.
The most common size of steering wheels on modern cars is M, that is, medium. In numbers it is 37-39 cm in diameter. More on girth width later. Almost all European and Japanese sedans, minivans and crossovers have an M-size steering wheel. Compact city runabouts are most often equipped with S-size steering wheels, and American cars are equipped with L-size steering wheels. Therefore, if you do not know exactly the dimensions of the steering wheel for which you are going to purchase a braid, then it is better In total, take size M. A braid of this size will fit well on both larger and smaller steering wheels.
Now about the girth width. Everything is very simple here. The vast majority of car steering wheels have a girth width of 82 mm. If you own an “American”, then your steering wheel is probably a little thicker. And if you are lucky enough to own an antique car from the middle of the last century, then your steering wheel is thinner.
So, we have decided on the sizes. It's time to learn how to safely fit your handlebar cover.
Learning how to correctly put the braid on the steering wheel
First of all, remove any sharp objects away from you, be it a screwdriver, pry bar, awl or anything else! No matter how much you would like to speed up the process of putting on the braid using these tools, remember that by using them, you risk damaging not only the braid, but also the steering wheel itself. To put it on, you only need the braid itself. Also, there is no need to pre-stretch the braid or heat it over an open fire. This will not lead to anything good.
You only need to pay attention to the temperature of the steering wheel braid itself. If the process occurs in warm weather, then there are no problems. If it’s frosty outside, then before putting the braid on the steering wheel, put it in the cabin closer to the stove and bring it to normal temperature. After this, align the steering wheel and attach the braid to it. If there are notches or patterns on it, position them according to the position of the steering wheel. You need to start tightening the braid from the top, smoothly moving down. To make the process easier, help yourself with rotational movements around the rim of the steering wheel - this way the braid will sit on the steering wheel much faster. All. As you can see, nothing complicated.
We hope you will follow our recommendations. Then the selected steering wheel braid will serve you faithfully for more than one season.
Kinds
What is the clearance and ground clearance for the VAZ-2114
Not only the method of its fastening, but also further care and duration of operation depends on which steering wheel upholstery is preferred.
Leather braids
One of the most common materials for steering wheel covers is genuine leather, which is characterized by practicality in processing and durability. The material can be either regular or perforated. The holes on the case additionally decorate the product and add volume. In addition, the skin allows you to visually smooth out unevenness, if any. Since products made from such material are characterized by high performance, leather is considered the most convenient for the accessory in question. The material is easy to care for and hygienic compared to other types of braids. The leather-covered steering wheel can be easily wiped with antiseptic agents before driving. Such treatment will not cause any harm to the material, and will protect the driver from possible problems.
The high price tag for leather braiding may scare you off at first, but it would not be entirely correct to save on such an important element of the car’s interior. The cost is justified by the long service life and pleasure while traveling
One of the most common and practical materials for finishing the steering wheel is leather.
Made from eco-leather
Along with leather products, eco-leather covers are no less popular. Such braids are made on the basis of rubber. The material is called “breathable” artificial leather, where polyurethane is used instead of PVC. The undoubted advantage of such covers is the absence of toxic emissions. In appearance and tactile sensations, an eco-leather accessory leaves only a more positive impression. The use of rubber as a base gives such braids another advantage - ease of installation. Plus, the price is more affordable compared to leather cases.
Eco-leather as a material for braiding gives the accessory hypoallergenic and pleasant tactile properties, as well as an affordable price
Fur
Fur covers can attract attention only at first, but after a few days the material will show all its negative sides, which boil down to low practicality and soiling. The fur braid quickly wrinkles, the pile gets dirty, which worsens the aesthetic appearance, and this is especially true for light colors
Dirt and dust accumulate between the pile, which negatively affects hygiene. In addition, in the hot season, hands sweat, which leads to the steering wheel slipping when steering and reducing the level of safety when driving a car.
Fur braiding, apart from being attractive in the first few days, has no other advantages, since dust and dirt accumulate in the material, which negatively affect hygiene.
Wicker covers
There were times when domestic cars had braided wire braids. Such cases were endowed with high strength, because the plastic insulation of the wire was very rarely worn out. If we compare braided braids with natural leather, they are less attractive and have a low level of hygiene. Dust and dirt collect between the turns of wire, which can be difficult to remove. In this situation, solutions based on household detergents come to the rescue. In addition, such braiding hardens in winter and practically does not warm up, and you have to wear gloves to drive a car.
Braided braids were previously used on domestic cars and were characterized by abrasion resistance, but in winter it is not very convenient to drive such a steering wheel
Useful braids
You can make a steering wheel cover yourself, and the product will be not only beautiful, but also useful. To make it more comfortable, massage inserts are made on the outside
In addition to convenience, they will ensure better blood circulation in the fingers and palms, which is important for long trips. You can install heating under a homemade braid
This function will be especially relevant when operating the car in winter in Russian conditions. You can control the heated steering wheel using a button located on the instrument panel.
Rating of the best car steering wheel braids for 2022
The best manufacturers produce huge quantities of popular models of various accessories for cars. Improved new products go on sale every year. The list of necessary and practical products also includes a steering wheel braid. In order to avoid mistakes when choosing, you must first decide what they are and where it is better to buy them. This is what we want to talk about in this article.
- 6.1 HuiER
- 6.2 FCC
- 6.3 Dermay
- 6.4 ALLGT
- 6.5 Stenzhorn
- 7.1 Audew
- 7.2 Wcesidon
- 7.3 Spokle stoa
- 7.4 HuiER
- 7.5 Ecocar Accessories
- 8.1 Dermay
- 8.2 Dermay
- 8.3 Mc Driver
- 8.4 Cobra
- 8.5 Derbi-XL
- 8.6 Rubin
- 8.7 DKDFCD
What is this accessory and what is it for?
The steering wheel braid is a special cover, the main task of which is to optimize the contact of the palms with the steering wheel, taking into account the personal wishes of the person. The factory option is not acceptable for everyone. It is standard and may not satisfy the driver's needs. You have to choose the product for the steering wheel of your car yourself. It is not only practical, but also decorates the inside of the car.
Many people wonder how necessary this device is? It is much easier for owners of leather salons. Everything about them is beautiful and harmonious, there is no need to change or adjust anything. Owners of cheap cars are very interested in this topic. To somehow get away from factory minimalism and make your iron horse more modern and attractive, you need to try starting with braiding.
This event is the simplest and does not require significant investments. This is especially important for those who purchased a used car, where it is scary to touch the steering wheel.
According to buyers, the main purpose of the accessory comes down to the following:
- Performs the function of a kind of cover.
- Helps maintain the original appearance of the steering wheel.
- Does not allow palms to slip.
- Promotes driving safety.
- Increases the thickness of the steering wheel.
- Makes the girth more comfortable.
- Allows for aesthetic renovation of the car interior.
- Protects the steering wheel from exposure to sunlight, significant temperature changes, drying out and excessive moisture.
- Hides defects that appear over time.
Types of popular models
Regardless of whether the product is domestic or foreign, it is divided into two categories:
- Regular cases. No additional fixation is provided. Simply put on the steering wheel. The process takes no more than 15 - 20 minutes, if only the size is chosen correctly. The manipulation can be done independently, without the involvement of assistants. The advantages include a variety of models, colors, ease of installation. From an aesthetic point of view, they are a little inferior to cladding. They may also fit loosely on the handlebars and stretch out over time.
- Covers – coverings. People call them “new skin”. Available with or without lacing. Positive characteristics include aesthetics, tightness, reliability and durability. There are few negative points, but they are worth mentioning. To put them on, you will need to spend a lot of free time, show experience and dexterity in this matter. In addition, you need to be able to hold a thread and a needle in your hands and have at least a little experience in sewing. To get the perfect result, you will have to remove the steering wheel.
Material of manufacture
Today, manufacturers have launched the production of accessories of different sizes and for different brands of cars. In addition to functionality and appearance, they also differ in the material of manufacture. Both traditional and unique finishing materials are used. They are mainly used for covering upholstered furniture. Each type has both its advantages and disadvantages. But they all improve the appearance of the interior, take care of safety, improve driving quality, and make the trip more comfortable and less tiring. Let's look at each option in more detail:
Type | Description |
Genuine Leather | The most expensive and prestigious models. Used for constriction. The result is a great look and a pleasant feeling. Palms don't slip. This is especially important in extreme heat, when the driver tends to sweat. Sweat is absorbed and does not spread over the surface. The driver's hands always remain dry. |
Microfiber | Concentrated all the best qualities of nonwoven materials. Distinctive features of the composition: ventilation, anti-allergenic. The palms hold the steering wheel tightly and do not slip. |
Alcantra | New in this area. An excellent solution for all machines. The base is polyester fiber using a non-woven method. The polyurethane coating gives strength. Between the palm and the steering wheel there is a springy layer, very convenient and comfortable. It allows air to pass through and prevents your palms from sweating. Looks beautiful and lasts a long time. The variety of colors is enviable. |
Eco leather | It is considered a substitute for genuine leather. It looks rich and costs little money. The service life is not as long as its natural counterpart. Over time, you will have to replace it with another one. |
Tweed and velor | A distinctive feature is a bright design solution, pleasant to the touch, tightly fits the steering wheel, increases safety and comfort. After its installation, a ventilated pad is created between the palm and the plastic rim. |
Silicone | The main quality is the density and strength of the fit to the rim. Pleasant to the touch, lifts the driver's mood. Contact with the steering wheel with such matter is constant and is not lost for a moment. Cleans well. Available in a variety of colors. |
Sponge | It seems that the product consists of many pad inserts. They are made of foam rubber, fabric or leather. There are from 6 to 10 pads per design. |
Sheepskin, sheepskin, mouton, faux or natural fur | Pleasant to the touch, soft, warm. More suitable for female drivers. Hands do not freeze in winter. Driving a car with such an accessory is comfortable and cozy. |
Size chart
What to look for when choosing products? Of course, based on her size. Even if you like the product, but it was manufactured by KAMAZ, then it simply will not suit your VAZ: it will not fit tightly on the steering rim, it will constantly move out, twist, and even fall off. Driving a car in this situation is not only inconvenient, but also dangerous. At the most inopportune moment you can lose control. Which product is better to buy? One that not only appealed visually, but also fits the size of the car. Products are manufactured to suit different steering wheel diameters. The size chart is as follows:
Size | Parameters (cm) | Who is it suitable for? |
S | 35-37 | Oka, Tavria. |
M | 37-38 | VAZ from 08 to 15 models, crossovers, foreign cars. |
L | 39-40 | Niva, Volga, VAZ. |
XL | 42-43 | UAZ, Gazelle. |
XXL | 47 | Almost all trucks are of foreign origin. |
XXXL | 49 | BELAZ, KAMAZ, MAZ. |
How to choose the right one
You just have to visit a car store and you can get lost in the huge range of products. You can choose from heated products, with a relief for your fingers, with a non-standard design, corrugated, smooth and perforated texture, with embroidery and chrome elements, even imitation wood. The recommendations of experts are as follows. Regardless of your own selection criteria, you must pay attention to the following parameters:
- Fixation method. There are two main types: a cover and a device that requires covering and is fixed to the steering wheel using a needle and special threads. Each option has both advantages and disadvantages. Fixed devices are easy to put on, but can stretch and slip over time, interfering with vehicle control. Must be fully consistent with the existing interior. If you have to sew it on, you need to do it very carefully. If everything is done professionally, then no one will guess that this accessory is not “original”.
- Material. It all depends on personal preference. Men choose strict leather products, while women opt for cheerful velor, fur, foam rubber, suede or other soft fabric. The most durable material is genuine leather, however, its cost is high. Foam rubber products belong to the budget category, but their service life is minimal.
- Design solution and colors. The product is available in different colors, so choosing one to match the design will not be difficult. If you have a strict black car interior, you should not covet pink or blue products with birds or butterflies. They will look meaningless and alien there.
Which company is better to purchase a product, everyone chooses independently, based on personal preferences. It is advisable to visit branded stores and purchase a suitable model there. If any difficulties arise, a professional sales manager will be happy to help you, introduce you to the latest arrivals, tell you about all the advantages and disadvantages of the product, and help you make a choice.
You can order a product online in an online store, having previously read customer reviews, reviewed the products offered, and made sure of the integrity of the supplier. No one is safe from receiving a cheap Chinese counterfeit.
What are there
What is the diameter of the exhaust pipe of a VAZ 2107?
Typically, steering wheel covers are made of leather, leather substitute, foam rubber (sponge).
A win-win option is leather. Despite the fact that this is the most expensive material, it has many advantages.
The advantages also include elasticity, strength, and ease of maintenance of the material.
Such braids look expensive and stylish.
If you still don’t like the price, you can choose covers made from leather substitute or sponge.
Leatherette braids are similar to leather braids, so if you are on a budget, you can choose this option.
Sponge steering wheel covers make driving especially comfortable, as the foam rubber prevents your hands from slipping.
There are interesting models that take the shape of the driver’s hands and seem to “remember” it.
There are also models with special pads that massage your palms while driving, which prevents your hands from getting tired.
The advantages are also the low price compared to leather and a variety of colors, which allows you to take into account the tastes of any consumer.
Gel braids are distinguished by their characteristic angularity.
The voluminous protrusions inside are filled with a special gel composition.