OEM leather wrap steering wheel

I'm going to GUESS, that something like the steering wheel leather getting rough/smooth/worn over the course of 3yrs/36k is going to be considered "normal" wear and tear by the manufacturer. Especially with an item like a steering wheel that gets daily abuse and with things the manufacturer can't control like sweat, body oils, jewelry, etc. Usually if something like that happens within the first year you can have success in getting it replaced, but I kinda doubt they will do anything now.

It wouldn't hurt to talk to your dealer about it, but I would brace for disappointment.

 

You may be able to get a good price on replacement if you have a gentle conversation with the dealer's Customer Care Manager.
Remember that you can attract more flies with honey than you can with vinegar.

 

My '10 V = 2 yrs 4 mos old. Florida. I do garage park but it has seen its share of sun. The wheel is like new - no significant leather issues at all. Most of the hand wear would be at 12o'clock and 10/2 o'clock = again no wear at all.

I have had other cars in the past that had shown rough areas on the wheel after years, but cannot complain re the Prius so far. Of course the leather is not premium as upscale vehicles, but mine seems to be holding up very well.

Might you have had something on your hands (often) while driving like turpentine, (after painting) cologne, hand sanitizer, etc etc? Quite sure the dealer service rep would ask you that. Good luck...

 

Do you have Wolverine claws? ;-)

 

Yes, unfortunately I think wear on a leather wrapped steering wheel is going to be considered a "normal wear" item.

Also, so many factors can influence how quickly like something like that wears. From (don't be insulted) but from how clean your hands may often be, to whether or not you use a leather cleaner/conditioner on the leather. And also things like prudent use of a sun shade.

You might just try a good leather cleaner/conditioner, maybe it could rejuvinate it to the point you feel good about it, if not? You may be looking at replacement. Then going forward, I'd recommend leather conditioner periodically and prudent use of a sunshade.

PS: If you use a leather conditioner on the steering wheel, let it work in and be aware that some of them create a temporary slickness. Just wouldn't want to hear about you using some and losing control of your vehicle. I have a leather wrapped steering wheel and periodically use a very, very small amount of Meguiars leather conditioner on it...so far the wheel is holding up nicely, but when I first apply, I do have to be aware that I have done so and the wheel might be a little slick until it works in completely.

 

I have the same problem at the 12 o'clock position and have no idea how it got there. However, a good leather conditioner can fill in the roughness but this would need to be re-applied periodically.

 

If you haven't already done so try cleaning it, as mentioned by Electric above. I had that problem with my old Accord after several years of use and was getting ready to buy a new cover or a new steering wheel. I cleaned it using soap and water, that worked fine and it was nice and smooth again. A good leather cleaner might be even better.

 

clip your fingernails

 

Coat the steering wheel with vasoline and take it for a brisk drive on a curvy road. My guess is you will quickly forget the roughness.