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Do not use rubbing alcohol to clean your steering wheel. Isopropyl alcohol has the potential to release plasticizers which make plastic and vinyl steering wheels more sticky, and will dry out leather.
First off, you'll want to figure out both the material of your steering wheel and the cause of the stickiness, as the solutions will vary greatly depending on the composition of the surface. The chart below should direct you to the best solution for the given material and likeliest culprit:
Material | Cause | Solution |
Plastic | Dirt/Grime | Soapy Hot Water |
Plastic | Heat | Plastic Conditioner |
Leather | Dirt/Grime | Clean & Condition |
Leather | Wear | Leather Conditioner |
Leather | Heat | Sunscreen Conditioner |
Dirt & Grime
The most common cause of a sticky steering wheel is dirt and grime buildup. As lotions, dirt, grease, and skin oil from your hands get deposited onto the steering wheel every time you drive, the accumulation of
Heat
Heat can cause plastics and vinyls (polymers) to break down in one of two processes. Photodegradation is when the polymer is exposed to UV-rays like sunlight. Thermal degradation is caused by heat. Your steering wheel is exposed to both if it stays parked outside, particularly if you live in a warm climate like San Luis Obispo, California.
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