Hi, I drive a 2003 Chili Red MCS. The other day as I buckled up behind the wheel, I noticed a sizable scratch across the winged Mini logo on the steering wheel center cap. Oddly enough, my wife (who borrowed the car while I was away on a location shoot) claims to have no knowledge and says I must have done it... Ha! I pamper my Coop and notice every detail... But I love my wife so sure, let's just say I scratched it. Does anyone here know if the center logo cap can be replaced? The dealership says no (because of the airbag), but I seldom believe dealerships. And if it can't be replaced, is there an aftermarket solution? I can't be the only person with a scratched Mini Cooper emblem on their steering wheel. Any help or ideas appreciated!

Benson

 

It adds character. Although upsetting, small scratches and scuffs inside are part of an aging car. You cannot keep it imaculate forever.

Eh, well, you could replace the entire steering wheel. Unless, like me, you are attached to it. I am not keen on replacing any element of the human interface (shifter, wheel, seat, pedels, etc.). That would fundamentaly change how I become one with my car, something I cannot change comfortably.

 

You could try polishing the scratch out and then use a for-plastic wax to fill it. At least it wouldn't be so noticeable. Would be nice and shiny too.

I've had a similar question on removing the outer silver ring around the logo. I want to repaint it because it has become scratched. I may just punt and mask it off well and paint it in place.

 

http://www.aestheticreations.net/3ddomeddecals.htm
Scroll down to the bottom.

 

That's one solution... just cover that scratch up !

 

Thanks for the info! Yeah, I agree that it just adds to character as it certainly doesn't take anything away from my enjoyment of driving. But it's a big scratch and I'd rather see it gone. I forgot to mention that it appears to be beneath the clear plastic cover, as if the result of a hard impact... Is minor road rage even possible in a Mini Cooper? I've also noticed what looks like a slot for a flathead screw driver at the outer edge of the center cap. This is what made me wonder if there is a replacable piece. Being an '03 MCS, I have the 2 spoke steering wheel.

Benson

 

It is replaceable I had it done in my 04. The MINI symbol was seperating from the plastic and it looked bad. This was done while I was still under warranty.
I wish I had the two spoke versus my three spoke sterering wheel.


Art

 

The two spoke is rather nice. I like how mine does not have those little grip bumps all around it and no buldge for the hands. The newer steering wheels just don't feel right.

 

Amen!

 

I had mine replaced under warranty as well, for the same reason- the edges were lifting. But, when I looked at the repair paperwork, it shows they replaced the airbag assembly, not just the badge....

 

Thanks everyone. Kinda confirms what I've heard twice from the dealership, that the entire center (airbag) would have to be replaced... being beyond warranty, I'm sure it's not cheap. I'll figure something out.

It's interesting to hear that several of you aren't too crazy about the newer three spoke steering wheel. Though I haven't driven the 3-spoke yet, I really like the 2-spoke... easy to grip and lots of character in it's design!

Benson

 

Plus the controls are much easier to use rather the Nintendo type controls on the three spoke.


Art

 

+1

mine's fading... there's little weird silver dots all over the place (i am not sure if im explaining properly)

probably going to get a sparco wheel whenever i decide i dont need my pretty face anymore

 

Mine is doing the same. It appears the decal beneath the plastic cover is delaminating within. Next spring I'll likely stick to masking it off and painting it in place, trim ring and center cap. May just be a good place for another decal.

 

It can be fixed if you are still under warranty.


Art