What a leopard print steering wheel cover does and why people use them
A leopard print steering wheel cover is a fabric or synthetic sleeve that slides over your steering wheel to change its appearance and feel. The cover protects the wheel underneath from wear, sun damage, and cracking while giving your car interior a specific look. Most are made from faux fur, microfiber, or woven fabric with a leopard spot pattern printed or sewn on.
People use them for three main reasons: to refresh an older or damaged steering wheel without replacing it, to add a personal style element to the car's interior, or to improve grip and comfort during long drives. A worn steering wheel can become sticky or slippery; a cover solves that problem for under $30. They are also removable, so you can swap them out if your taste changes or if you need to sell the car.
Key Takeaways
- Steering wheel covers come in different materials — faux fur, microfiber, and woven fabric — and each affects grip, durability, and how straightforward they are to clean.
- Your steering wheel's diameter matters; most cars use 14.5 to 15 inches, but you should measure before ordering to avoid a cover that is too loose or too tight.
- Installation takes 5 to 10 minutes and requires only your hands or a plastic spoon to help tuck the elastic; no tools or adhesive needed.
- Faux fur covers shed initially and need regular brushing; microfiber covers are easier to maintain but may not feel as soft.
Measuring your steering wheel to get the right fit
The most common steering wheel diameter is 14.5 to 15 inches, but trucks, luxury cars, and older vehicles can vary. A cover that is too small will bunch up and feel loose; one that is too large will not grip the wheel and will slip while you drive.
To measure, wrap a soft measuring tape around the outside of your steering wheel at its widest point. If you do not have a measuring tape, use a piece of string, mark where it meets itself, and measure the string against a ruler. Write down the measurement in inches. When you shop, look for covers labeled with the diameter range — most will say "fits 14.5 to 15 inch wheels" or similar. If your wheel is 15.5 inches or larger, search specifically for oversized covers, as standard ones will not fit.
Choosing between faux fur, microfiber, and woven materials
Faux fur covers have a soft, plush feel and look distinctive. They shed noticeably for the first few weeks, so you will find loose fibers on your hands and clothes. They require regular brushing with a soft brush to keep the pile smooth and to remove dust. Faux fur is harder to clean if something spills on it, and it can absorb odors. It lasts 2 to 4 years with regular care.
Microfiber covers are made from tightly woven synthetic material that feels smooth and slightly grippy. They shed very little, are straightforward to wipe clean with a damp cloth, and do not absorb odors as much as faux fur. Microfiber is a good choice if you want low maintenance. It typically lasts 3 to 5 years.
Woven fabric covers, often cotton or cotton blends, offer a classic look and good grip. They breathe better than microfiber in hot weather, so your hands do not get as sweaty. They are machine-washable on a gentle cycle if you remove them. Woven covers last 2 to 4 years depending on the weave quality.
How to install a leopard print steering wheel cover
Installation is straightforward and takes about 5 to 10 minutes. You will need only your hands, though a plastic spoon or butter knife can help if the cover is tight.
- Remove the cover from its packaging and lay it flat for a few minutes so it relaxes.
- Locate the opening at the bottom of the cover — this is where you will slide it onto the wheel.
- Starting at the opening, begin sliding the cover onto the wheel. Work it around slowly, using both hands to stretch the elastic opening as you go.
- Once the cover is halfway on, pause and make sure it is centered. The seam should run straight down the back of the wheel.
- Continue sliding the cover the rest of the way around. The elastic will grip the wheel as you go.
- If the cover is very tight, use a plastic spoon to gently pry the elastic edge up and over the wheel rim. Do not use a sharp tool, as it can tear the cover.
- Once fully on, adjust the cover so the seam is centered and the pattern is straight. Smooth out any wrinkles.
The cover should feel snug but not painfully tight. If it is too loose and slides around, it is the wrong size. If it is so tight that you cannot get it on without tearing, remove it and order a size up.
Caring for your leopard print cover to extend its life
Faux fur covers need the most attention. Brush them weekly with a soft-bristled brush or pet slicker brush to keep the pile smooth and to remove dust and loose fibers. If something spills on faux fur, blot it when ready with a damp cloth and let it air dry. Do not rub, as that can mat the fibers. For stubborn stains, use a small amount of mild soap and water, then rinse with a damp cloth.
Microfiber covers can be wiped clean with a slightly damp cloth and dried with a towel. They do not need brushing. If the cover gets very dirty, you can remove it and hand-wash it in cool water with mild soap, then air dry it completely before reinstalling.
Woven fabric covers can usually be removed and machine-washed on a gentle cycle with cold water. Lay them flat to dry or hang them to dry. Do not put them in the dryer, as heat can damage the elastic.
All covers benefit from being stored in a cool, dry place if you remove them for long periods. Keep them away from direct sunlight when not in use, as UV light can fade the leopard print pattern.
When to replace your steering wheel cover
Replace a cover when the elastic no longer grips the wheel and it slides around while you drive, when the material tears or develops holes, or when stains or odors will not come out. A cover that is slipping is a safety issue because it can distract you or get caught on your hands while turning.
If the wheel underneath is still in good condition, you can remove the old cover and install a new one. If the wheel itself is cracked, peeling, or damaged, you may want to replace the wheel at the same time, though a new cover will hide minor damage for several more years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a leopard print cover fit my truck's steering wheel?
Most truck steering wheels are 15 to 16 inches in diameter, which is larger than standard car wheels. Measure your wheel first. If it is 15.5 inches or larger, search for oversized or truck-specific covers. Standard covers will not fit properly and will slide around while you drive.
Can I wash a faux fur cover in the washing machine?
Hand-washing is safer for faux fur. Fill a sink with cool water and mild soap, submerge the cover, gently agitate it, and rinse thoroughly. Machine washing can mat the fur and damage the elastic. Air dry it completely before putting it back on the wheel.
Does a steering wheel cover affect airbag deployment?
A properly fitted cover that sits on top of the wheel should not interfere with airbag deployment. However, if the cover is so thick or bulky that it changes the shape of the wheel or makes the airbag cover hard to identify, it could be a problem. Stick with standard-thickness covers and make sure the airbag area is not obstructed.
How do I remove a steering wheel cover that is stuck?
If the elastic has gripped too tightly or the cover has dried in place, gently work a plastic spoon or butter knife under the elastic edge and pry it up slowly all the way around the wheel. Do not yank or pull hard, as you can tear the cover or damage the wheel. Take your time and work a little bit at a time.
Will the leopard print fade if I leave the cover on in the sun?
Yes, UV light will fade the pattern over time, especially on lighter-colored leopard prints. If you park in direct sun regularly, consider removing the cover when the car is parked for long periods, or use a sunshade on your windshield to reduce heat and UV exposure inside the car.