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Steering wheel and dash

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by PRIUS_1976, Mar 16, 2012.

  1. PRIUS_1976

    PRIUS_1976 New Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
    Atlanta
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    New to the Prius family with a 2010 III, sunroof. Enjoying the car now seeing 55+ mpg!!!!
    Have few questions and thought i would ask the forum for input:
    1. Steering wheel - At the bottom, the steering wheel feels squarish - warped. While turning the steering wheel, i can feel the steering wheel go from round and almost have an edge at the bottom spoke. Is this normal?
    2. Are there recommended steering wheel covers - leather, wood etc?
    3. Any recommendations on making the dash area no so plasticky?
    4. I have lot of rattle from around the front dash, steering wheel area. Are these know issues/common problems that can be fixed easily or do I need to visit the dealer?

    Thanks in advance for the input.
     
  2. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    Hi and welcome aboard!
    1. Yes, normal. I place my left hand in this area to drive.
    2. They make leather covers and complete leather replacements (JDM). Spendy though.
    3. There are dash covers on ebay.
    4. You just have one rattle? Dealer can try to fix it but are often elusive. There are a few threads on here about fixes.
     
  3. PRIUS_1976

    PRIUS_1976 New Member

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    Thanks spiderman.
    I have several rattles....the one by the dash/steering wheel is the loudest.

    I will check out the leather covers and dash covers.

    The steering wheel might take some time getting used to. Not sure why it is not round (like normal).
     
  4. 1ULV2H8

    1ULV2H8 Member

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    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    II
    The flat bottomed steering wheel design allows more room beneath it in theory. Same design is used in some tight race cars.
     
  5. PRIUS_1976

    PRIUS_1976 New Member

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    III
    Interesting. While it makes turning the steering wheel quite different, I might be OK after using it for a while.
     
  6. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    It is an acquired taste, but I have since gotten use to it and don't even think about it anymore.
     
  7. PRIUS_1976

    PRIUS_1976 New Member

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    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
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    III
    2 weeks and about 500 miles, i am getting used to it now. Funny how the mind adapts.
     
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  8. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    Indeed. Took a day or two to get over the engine shutting down @ a stop. :)

    So do you drive with one hand now?