My MCS has about 27k on it and I've got a problem with the leather peeling off of the steering wheel. Has anyone else had this problem? It's mainly on the 12 and 9 o'clock positions on the wheel but it seems that this shouldn't be a problem. Any input would be appreciated as I am going to take my car in for service in the next couple of weeks and want to know whether this is a warranty issue (which to me it seems like it is). I have not done any sort of leather conditioner for safety reasons (i.e. less control of the wheel). TIA.

 

Mines fine at 12K. Warranty issue.

 

Yeah, mine did the same at 20k. The dealer replaced it under warranty.

 

Mine is ok at 18K miles...I'm buying a steering wheel cover to protect my steering wheel just to be safe.

 

Is it parked in the sun alot? I'm wondering if it could be a combination of sweat/salt/oil from your hands, and UV/heat from direct sun. Mine's fine after less than a year, but its garaged almost all the time.

 

My "leather" wheel developed the same problem a few months ago. Originally it was in the 12 o'clock position, but over time has now progressed to the area from the 11 to 1 o'clock positions, as well as the spots where I rest my thumbs (3 and 9 o'clock).

This is the CHEAPEST, thinnest leather I have ever felt. It is paper thin, literally. Makes me glad I don't have the leather seats, at $1250. I'm going in next month for my first oil change, and it will be replaced at that time. Once it is replaced, I plan on covering it up with the thickest quality leather wrap I can find. By the way, my car lives in the garage half the time, and I don't wear hand cream or have sewaty palms while I drive. I think it is just poor quality.
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'03 MC, delivered 1/21/03, IB/W, combo 1&2, chrome, CVT, no nav...use a map !

 

ooops...sewaty = sweaty

 

Are the first symptoms little "bubbles"? I noticed this developing where I grip the wheel. And its not cuz I squeeze the P*$ outta the car

 

16 months, 34k miles and my steering wheel is fine... just lucky I guess... good karma...



God speed.

 

I have no problems with my leather wheel but since its an Sept. 9 build 04 I wouldn't expect there should be a problem yet. I have treated both the wheel & seats with Lexoil leather conditioner twice in 3 months.

I don't think there is a safety issue in using a good leather conditioner on the steering wheel. Mine actually has a better grip after treatment. I always apply it fairly heavy, wait several min. and wipe off any residue.

 

Yes, for me the first symptoms were little bubbles. Don't rub them or press on them too much, because that will start your wheel from peeling away as mine has now.

By the way, when I first brought this matter to the attention of my dealership, a MA (not mine) said that it probably wasn't real leather, but a leatherette!!!

I was hoping to upgrade to the MCS 2-spoke wheel when they make the swap next month. We'll see.

 

I’m with MINI USA. I’m sorry to read about your problem with your steering wheel. If you want our assistance, please phone us at (866) ASK MINI and mention Reference # 200335103164 so that we can help you more efficiently.

 

>>I was hoping to upgrade to the MCS 2-spoke wheel when they make the swap next month. We'll see.

I have an early '03 MCS with the standard steering wheel. I was hoping I would get the 'sport' wheel when they changed it, but I ended up with the same style wheel.

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Thanks everyone for your input. Much appreciated. I am going to try and make an appt. some time right after X-mas to get my maintenance and other issues taken care of. I will let everyone know how it goes. Thanks again everyone and have a safe and happy holiday.