Hi guys!

I'm thinking of changing the steering wheel in my '04 X-fire for a thicker one. I have fairly large hands and really like the feel of the wheel in my everyday car, a Volkswagen ID3, so thought I would go for something similar. I found a company that builds custom steering wheels upon request, for many makes and models including the Crossfire (see https://www.realcarbontastic.com/pro...paddle-shifted). But as it is quite expensive and US based (I'm in Sweden), I was wondering if anyone here has any experience with this company. Is it legit? Are the products good quality? Appreciate any help!

All the best
Carl

Moderator note: Title edited to enable better search function

 

Hi Carl,
I am wondering if it would be less expensive to take it to a local leather shop and have them make a new cover for the steering wheel.
They might be able to use a much thicker leather and match the color. It may be worth a try.
John

 

When I bought my car, it had padded leather steering wheel cover. I peeled it back to make sure it was in good shape but then left it on. I figured I would take it off when I got home. After 27 hours in the car, I decided I liked it, and it is still on there.
A cover would definitely be a cheaper route to go. If you decide to go with the new wheel, make sure you have a reader that can take care of any airbag warning lights if encountered.

 

Thanks for the tips guys, I'll check it out before ordering a whole new wheel. Love this forum!
/C

 

I purchased this one on Amazon and it fits and feels really good
I also like the look

Steering Wheel Cover for Crossfire

Steering Wheel Cover for Crossfire

 

That's the thickness I'm looking for! Looks like a good grip. I'll let you know what I decide and post an image when it's done. Got my hands full with other improvements right now, though: mending chips in the paint, fixing the license plate lamps, fixing broken speakers, putting on new rims and tires, painting and mounting diffusers and a front splitter, changing the air intake and exhaust, remapping the ECU... Reckon the steering wheel will have to wait a while. Man, the guy who owned this car before me did not take proper care of it--but it's shaping up.

All the best!
Carl

 

I bought that same steering wheel cover based on Valk's recommendation a while back.
Works great for me.
Jim

 

How much thickness does it add, would you say? It's hard to tell from pictures. I'm looking for a much thicker feel than the original. I've read differing reviews on these wheel covers; some say they work fine others that they slip on the wheel when you turn it. How's the feel? Also, I'm thinking "Made in China = sweat shops, poor quality in the long run, and carcinogenic materials in the leather" but I might be overthinking it :-)

All the best
Carl

 

 

No slip on the wheel.
Good grip for hands.
Had a slight smell at first but that went away quickly.
A lot cheaper than custom wheel that you are looking at.
I would say to try this first.
Jim

 

I bought a sew on steering wheel cover kit on amazon. It took about 2 hours but it looks like the factory wheel and its very comfortable.
It hasn't slipped in over a year.
Link to sew on steering wheel kit

 

Thanks Jim, I'll try this first and see how it feels. I would prefer a flat-bottom wheel but it's quite expensive to get a custom one. If I do get one, I'll post something about it.

All the best from Sweden!
Carl

 

Steering wheel feels good with the cover.

Not a lot of room in and out of the garage!

Beautiful! 19 inch rims front, 20 inch back.

I've taken to liking the billet grille. Thought about getting an original when I bought the car, but now I'm going to leave it on.

 

Looking good !

 

Those wheels; what are the specs? (width and offset)
I have read here that 19s don't fit in the front so the next question is what tire size is up front?

Very nice fitment!

 

The steering wheel and the car look great!
Thanks for updating us and the pictures!