Bespoke Motorsport Steering Wheel Restoration
Some steering wheels are simply components. Others are part of the character of the car — and this three-spoke motorsport-style wheel is a perfect example.
This wheel arrived with a distinctive deep burgundy suede-style covering, giving it a classic motorsport appearance. Rather than replacing its character with a generic modern finish, the restoration was approached with the aim of preserving its original identity while bringing the wheel back to a high standard.
The three-spoke metal centre gives the wheel its unmistakable competition-inspired appearance, while the unusual burgundy finish around the rim creates a striking, period-style look.
Restoring More Than Just the Covering
A proper steering wheel restoration isn’t simply a case of removing the old material and putting something new over the top.
We assess the condition of the wheel, the rim, spokes and underlying structure before deciding how best to restore it. Where appropriate, existing materials and components can be retained and restored rather than automatically replaced.
For this wheel, particular attention was given to:
- Restoring the steering wheel rim
- Carefully preparing the existing surfaces
- Retaining the distinctive three-spoke design
- Re-covering the rim in a rich burgundy suede-style material
- Achieving an even, consistent finish around the entire circumference
- Carefully finishing the joins and transitions around the spokes
- Maintaining the character of this unusual motorsport-inspired wheel
A Wheel With Character
We don’t believe every restoration should look brand new and modern.
Sometimes the best restoration is one that respects what was already there.
With classic, competition and specialist steering wheels, originality and character can be just as important as the finish itself. Material choice, colour, stitching and the way the covering follows the shape of the wheel can completely change its appearance.
Our approach is to understand the wheel first, then determine what it needs.
Crafted by Hand
Every wheel presents its own challenges.
The shape of the rim, the transition into the spokes, the material thickness and the way the covering needs to sit all have to be considered before the final finish is applied.
It’s the small details that make the difference — every seam, every edge and every transition needs to be right.
At Pride Car Customs, our approach combines traditional trimming skills with a broader mechanical and restoration mindset. That means we’re prepared to look beyond simply replacing a covering and consider how a steering wheel can be repaired, restored and transformed while retaining the features that make it special.
From Tired Motorsport Wheel to Bespoke Finished Wheel
This restoration demonstrates what can be achieved with a steering wheel that has a distinctive design and plenty of character.
The finished wheel retains its three-spoke motorsport appearance and deep burgundy colour, while giving the rim a fresh, carefully finished appearance suitable for a specialist, classic or competition-inspired build.
Not every steering wheel needs to be replaced. Sometimes it just needs someone with the skill and imagination to restore it properly.