Leather on Steering Wheel Early Wear

[dach2k3]

True steering wheel on my 2015 is starting to wear at around the 7 o'clock position. I noticed some turn after my purchase that the leather there seemed to be thinner and stretched. My car is about 10 mo this old and has 14,600 miles on it.

Is this something that is covered under warranty? I am doing my service now and the rep is taking photos and told me that it would have to be approved for replacement. She said it would likely be approved but that they would have to order the part.

I am curious how much I might have to fight for it if it is not approved initially or if anyone else has seen similar wear on their steering wheel.

 

[ep010835]

Curious. Do you have the steering wheel set to "retract" out of the way when you enter/exit the vehicle? I'm wondering if you might be rubbing up against it every time you enter/exit the vehicle. Also, do you steer the car with your left leg and wear mildly abrasive clothing, e.g., jeans?

 

[dach2k3]

I do not have it set to retract, but the wear is on the inside of the wheel mainly. Still, I noticed from early in that the leather in that area is thinner or slightly more distressed than the rest of the wheel. The area rubbing away is about the size of a quarter now, and is not a big issue, but it will definitely continue to wear over time. This spot is where my left hand often sits on the wheel.

 

[Seattle Genesis]

It really hard to give advise to what we can not see. Send pics.

 

[Mark_888]

I would use some kind of leather protectorant. All people excrete some uric acid through their skin, and some people excrete more than others which can interact with the leather.

You can do a test of your skin as follows. Don't wash your hands for at least 4 hours and take a magazine and see if you can smear the ink with your fingers. If so, you may have too much uric acid.

 

[Bblktrk4me]

The fatigue of leather on steering wheels was a very common issue and documented on GENESIS COUPES. Many of the owners reported that the dealers replaced their steering wheels under warranty. They noticed better quality on the replacement wheels. Guess Hyundai found a deal on thin skinned cows!

At any rate, a good leather lotion may alleviate some issues.

Good luck with your dealer.

 

[dach2k3]

Well thanks for the answers for the most part. My question was most about getting it replaced via warranty. I use good quality leather cleaners and conditioners on my cars. As I mentioned, there is definitely a defect in the leather.

 

[Sal Collaziano]

Well thanks for the answers for the most part. My question was most about getting it replaced via warranty. I use good quality leather cleaners and conditioners on my cars. As I mentioned, there is definitely a defect in the leather.

Since the Genesis Coupe owners had theirs replaced under warranty I would imagine you would have the same opportunity. Please keep us posted...