M5 Steering Wheel - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

Mark Yamauchi · 11th May 2000, 20:20

Some of the stitching on our 91 M5 steering wheel is loose right at the 10:00 position. The covering is also starting to pull apart because of it.

Does anyone know how to fix this?

Alternately, how about suggestions for a replacement steering wheel (w/ Airbag and w/o Airbag)?

It appears that I can install the 93 M Sport steering wheel but it is USD $560+.

I would prefer a three spoke type of design, but very BMW factory looking.

Thanks in Advance.

Wyldm5 · 12th May 2000, 10:21

Hi Mark,
I have seen replacement leather covers sold for Porsche steering wheels so I would assume that they are also available for BMW. However as I did this for my old 944 I can tell you that unless you know how to remove your airbag installed steering wheel DO NOT go this route as it is MUCH harder than they make it sound. Email me if you would like me to find someone that can just do a swap for you.(it will probably take me a few days especially with the weekend coming up) I would guess that a swap would be around 150-200 plus a core charge that would be refunded when you send them your old steering wheel.

GeorgeK · 12th May 2000, 13:57

Mark,
Is the $560 the price for the airbag wheel?
I bought 18 months ago a "M-technik 2" steering wheel for my 535iA, and it cost me $300 at the dealer.
My experience with covering kits is that thay never fit real well, because the leather has a suppleness that changes from piece to piece. I've recovered a lot of Porsche wheels, and it's never twice the same. I would have it done by a skilled upholsterer, if it comes cheaper than the new wheel.
All this only applies if you want a perfect steering wheel.
My $0.02, George
P.S. the wheel is leather(..) so a clean and some leather nurishing are needed. Most people never do that.

Mark Yamauchi · 12th May 2000, 20:41

Thanks for everyone's input. Yes the $560 is for the stock 93 M5 Airbag steering wheel and this is without the airbag!

Someone on bimmer.org message board suggested using an E36 M3 steering wheel. Seeing how there are a LOT of these cars around, getting a used one may be a viable option (providing it is a 3 spoke wheel - IMHO).

Anyone out there have a lead on a used E36 M3 steering wheel?