Choosing the Perfect Steering Wheel
When it comes to choosing a new steering wheel for your car, there are a lot of things to consider. What material is best suited for your driving style? What design do you prefer? Are there any specific features you need? Choosing the perfect steering wheel can be tricky, but don't worry - we're here to help.
How Are Aftermarket Steering Wheels Made?
Firstly, you'll need to figure out what material is best suited for the type of driving you’ll be doing. If you're after a steering wheel for the daily driver, choose Leather Steering Wheels or wood. Both of these materials are hard-wearing and much easier to keep clean when it comes to removing hand grime. Each material adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the interior, making them perfect for daily use, and you can pretty much guarantee they'll look stylish for years to come.
Suede Steering Wheels are ideal for track use as they offer a more tactile, motorsport feel but admittedly, suede is harder to keep clean so wearing racing gloves while on the track will ensure the steering wheel stays cleaner for longer.
Which Steering Wheels Are Right For My Car?
There are a few things to consider when making your decision. If you're just looking for something to replace your old, worn-out steering wheel, then any basic design will do. However, if you're looking for something premium with more features, or that's better suited for track or road use, then you'll need to consider the options available. Our steering wheel ranges cover pretty much every car available whether modern or classic, with Wood Steering Wheels and vintage steering wheels being very popular for use on classic cars for example.
Considering the size of the steering wheel you intend to use is also important. Go too large, and you’ll be struggling with legroom, go too small and the look and feel will be all off. It's all about finding what feels comfortable for you and your intended use. For example, using a flat-bottom steering wheel on a time-attack car, gives increased leg room for taller drivers, making it easier to enter and exit your car. However, if you're drifting, that same flat-bottom wheel would hinder steering motion, especially when spinning from lock to lock.
Whichever option you choose, using your existing steering wheel setup as a guide is always a good place to start to help you understand how the new wheel could potentially improve your driving experience.
Which Brands Make The Best Steering Wheels?
This is a big question with no right or wrong answer. Thankfully, we’re all different, but it’s up to you to decide which brand best suits your personality and how each steering wheel design complements your car’s interior. Whatever steering wheel you choose, you’ll want to ensure it’s right for you. At Driftworks, we have a huge range of steering wheels to choose from depending on your needs. Nardi, MOMO, and Personal are all prestigious Italian brands mostly preferred by car enthusiasts because of their racing heritage and premium craftsmanship. However, Vertex steering wheels, while still very much premium, offer an array of JDM Steering Wheels with beautifully embroidered designs that will certainly get people talking due to their slightly garish nature.
Advantages of Using Aftermarket Steering Wheels
There are several reasons why aftermarket Steering Wheels are popular among race car drivers. Firstly, they offer improved grip, often featuring ergonomic designs and materials that provide better grip than stock steering wheels. Additionally, many aftermarket steering wheels are designed to provide better feedback from the road, allowing drivers to have more precise control over their vehicles. Steering wheels made from materials like aluminium and carbon fibre are lighter than stock steering wheels, reducing the overall weight of the vehicle and improving performance. Moreover, aftermarket steering wheels come in a variety of designs and materials, allowing drivers to customise their vehicles to suit their preferences and driving styles.
Car Steering Wheels - Common Problems and Solutions
If you notice a squeaking or squealing noise coming from your steering wheel when turning, it might be a sign of a problem with the power steering system. First, check the power steering fluid level and if the issue persists, it's best to seek professional assistance.
Another thing to watch out for is a loose or wobbling steering wheel, which could be a result of worn-out or damaged steering components. Make sure all the steering wheel bolts are tightly secured.
Is your steering feeling stiff or difficult to turn? This could be due to a lack of power steering fluid or a problem with the power steering pump. Check the fluid level and make sure there aren't any obvious leaks.
Also, if you're having trouble with the buttons or controls on your steering wheel, it might be because of a faulty connection or wiring issue. Take a look at the wiring and connections, and if needed, get professional help.
Remember, if you come across any steering wheel problems you can't fix on your own, it's always a good idea to consult a qualified mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair. After all, ensuring safe and reliable driving is key.
Need any guidance or just want to know the most popular choices? Our friendly team are here to help and can be contacted via email at shop@driftworks.com or phone 0121 792 2000.