Introduction: Driving Safety Comes First
It’s been years since the universal steering wheel cover was invented, and nowadays, many people take it more as a decorative item rather than a functional driving component. But regardless of comfort or decoration, driving safety is the most important thing. Not all designs are suitable for real driving scenarios, and in this article, we’re going to talk about the practical risks and legal boundaries of several popular designs of the universal steering wheel covers, and what design principles can effectively address these issues.
1. Crochet Steering Wheel Covers: Suitable for Decorative or Parked Use Only
Why Crochet Steering Wheel Covers Are Popular but Unsafe for Driving？
It has been a widely joked-about topic in many crochet groups, whether a crochet steering wheel cover is suitable for driving, which is always regarded as “cute” or “comfortable”. Why do people always disagree with this kind of post?
Image generated for visual reference purposes only.
Material Properties and Loss of Steering Control
Lots of crochet makers said that,” After learning that it might cause accidents while driving, I stopped selling these covers.” The knitting yarn is known for its comfort, high heat retention, nice material for all kinds of DIY, but anti-slip performance is not one of its material properties. When using crochet steering wheel covers, it can significantly reduce the precision of grip, and will slip against the steering wheel easily, which increases the risk of accidents.
Warnings From Road Safety Authorities
Let's check what RSGB Limited and The Automobile Association of England, which has been providing rescue service for over 100 years, say:
Among the harmful hacks is the ‘Cosy Car’ makeover – which involves drivers creating a cosy, cottage-style interior by adding a crocheted steering wheel and gear stick cover, painting the sun visor, and adorning the ceiling with multiple badges.
The AA says more than 8,000 Google searches are made a month for ‘steering wheel covers’, but loose covers on steering wheels or gear levers can slip, impairing control of the car.
Source:
https://roadsafetygb.org.uk/news/aa-warns-drivers-against-tiktok-motoring-trends/
When Crochet Steering Wheel Covers May Be Used Safely
We recommend that a crochet steering wheel cover only be used when the car is parked, such as preventing the steering wheel from overheating when the vehicle is parked in hot weather.
2. Leather or Rubber Ring-Type Covers: Hidden Problems
Real-World Driving Failure Scenario of Ring-Type Steering Wheel Covers
This kind of universal steering wheel cover is the most well-known type, whose anti-slippery relies on the rubber friction on its inner circle. Let us focus on a real-world failure example of a used ring-type cover:
Source:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRynb0tSBts&t=28s
Just imagine this situation: driving on the road with a minor collision in front, you try to steer your steering wheel but fail, as the cover is slipping against your steering wheel, and your radio is still shouting:” I’m on the highway to hell~~”
Long-Term Damage to OEM Steering Wheels
Image generated for visual reference purposes only.
Not only can accidents occur, but the OEM leather steering wheel may also be damaged. When the inner anti-slippery rubber works out fine, it gives too much friction to the leather, which would make the OEM leather start to peel; as rubber ages, hardness increases and friction coefficients change unpredictably, which introduces long-term safety uncertainty. In many cases, retaining the original steering wheel may present fewer long-term risks than relying on a universal, friction-dependent cover.
3. Legal Perspective: Steering Wheel Covers Are Not Illegal — Until They Affect Control
Let us turn to the legal perspective to show you what risks you would face when you get yourself a slippery cover.
Key Legal References:
New York Vehicle & Traffic Law §375
§375. Equipment. 1. (a) Every motor vehicle, operated or driven upon the public highways of the state, shall be provided with adequate brakes and steering mechanism in good working order and sufficient to control.
Source:
https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/VAT/375
California Vehicle Code §24002
§24002. (a) It is unlawful to operate any vehicle or combination of vehicles which is in an unsafe condition, or which is not safely loaded, and which presents an immediate safety hazard.
Source:
https://law.justia.com/codes/california/code-veh/division-12/chapter-1/section-24002/
How Steering Wheel Covers Relate to the Steering Mechanism
From a functional and engineering perspective, the steering mechanism refers to how the driver’s input enters the system through the steering wheel, is transferred via the steering column, and is ultimately translated into front-wheel direction by the steering mechanism.
Potential Liability and Insurance Implications
Many U.S. states prohibit operating a vehicle in an unsafe condition or in a manner that endangers others. If a universal steering wheel cover becomes slippery or interferes with steering control, it may be considered an unsafe modification. In such cases, drivers could face increased liability in an accident, and depending on policy terms and accident investigation, insurance coverage may be affected if the loss of control is linked to the cover’s reduced steering precision or its impact on the steering mechanism.
4. Our Solution: Custom Steering Wheel Covers
Safety, protection, and aesthetics — can they coexist?
Yes, and from our perspective, driving safety must always take priority over all other considerations.
When we first identified these risks in the market, we decided to make a change. Based on our 10 years of experience in vehicle safety and long-term partnership with our craftsman highly experienced in leather craftsmanship, our products are developed based on these safety principles. Precise fitment that prevents slippage, premium materials that deliver secure grip, and thoughtfully designed patterns to meet diverse preferences.
Griffowl templates are developed using steering wheels sourced from around the world to ensure precise fitment. The result is a secure, non-slip cover that does not damage OEM leather. Customers can choose from a range of materials and colors to match their preferences and the vehicle interior. Our double-sided tape is designed to assist beginners during installation and, unlike conventional tapes, does not harm leather surfaces.
Conclusion: Steering Wheel Safety Should Never Be Compromised
The steering wheel is the primary human-machine interface of a vehicle, and any modification to this part effectively becomes part of the steering mechanism. Only when designed with proper materials, precise fitment, and durability in mind, can steering wheel covers provide comfort and protection without compromising control. Ultimately, responsible design is what allows safety, functionality, and appearance to coexist, and every designer should consider it first.