
The plastic cover under the steering wheel, also known as a clam shell, is a protective cover that safeguards the steering wheel from dirt, grease, dust, oil, and general wear and tear. It is located between the steering wheel and the instrument panel. This cover can be removed and replaced if it becomes damaged or loose. In addition to its protective function, the plastic cover can also be used to conceal the ignition lock switch, adding a layer of security to the vehicle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common name | Plastic steering wheel cover |
| Other names | Clam shell |
| Use | Protects the steering wheel from dirt, dust, oil, grease, stains, germs, bacteria, viruses, and general wear and tear |
| Variants | Standard, XL, Full Wheel |
| Sizes | Standard fits steering wheels up to 24", XL fits steering wheels up to 28" |
| Features | Elastic band, grip, adhesive backer |
| Colors | Black, satin black |
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What You'll Learn
- Steering wheel plastic covers are available in different sizes
- They protect the steering wheel from dirt, grease, and general wear and tear
- They can be used to safeguard the steering wheel from germs and viruses
- They are useful to have in your glove compartment when you need to check the engine
- They are called clam shells and are a dealer-only item

Steering wheel plastic covers are available in different sizes
Plastic steering wheel covers are an essential tool for safeguarding the steering wheel from dirt, grease, and general wear and tear. They are also useful for protecting your steering wheel from potential allergy triggers such as dust and mites.
Steering wheel covers are available in a variety of sizes and styles to fit different steering wheel dimensions. When purchasing a steering wheel cover, it is important to consider the diameter and grip circumference of your steering wheel to ensure a proper fit. Some online retailers allow you to select your vehicle's make and model to suggest products that will fit your car.
Standard-sized steering wheel covers typically fit steering wheels up to 24 inches, while XL covers are designed for steering wheels up to 28 inches. Some retailers also offer full steering wheel covers that cover the entire steering wheel, including the center area.
In addition to size, steering wheel covers come in a variety of materials, including leather, fabric, and plastic. Plastic covers are often favoured by dealerships and automotive businesses as they are disposable, affordable, and effective at protecting the steering wheel from dirt, dust, oil, and grease.
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They protect the steering wheel from dirt, grease, and general wear and tear
Plastic steering wheel covers are an essential tool for protecting the steering wheel from dirt, grease, and general wear and tear. They are especially useful when you need to pop the hood and check on the engine, as they prevent the transfer of dirt, oil, and other motor liquids from the engine to the steering wheel.
The covers are also helpful in safeguarding the steering wheel from any wheel-staining events. For example, if you need to touch the wheel after checking the engine, you can simply remove the cover and dispose of it, along with any dirt, viruses, or bacteria that may have accumulated. This is particularly relevant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the virus can live on surfaces for several days, increasing the risk of transmission.
In addition to protecting against dirt and germs, plastic steering wheel covers can also help to maintain your vehicle by preventing dust and mites from accumulating on the steering wheel, which is useful when a vehicle is parked in a garage for a long time.
The best steering wheel cover depends on the purpose for which it is being used. For instance, a vehicle owner may prefer a comfortable fabric or leather cover to prevent sweating in warm conditions. However, for automotive businesses, plastic premium quality, double elastic covers are ideal as they provide durability and double the protection. These covers are designed to fit various steering wheel sizes, ensuring a secure installation without causing any damage to the steering wheel.
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They can be used to safeguard the steering wheel from germs and viruses
Plastic steering wheel covers are an essential tool for safeguarding the steering wheel from dirt, grease, and general wear and tear. They can also be used to protect the steering wheel from germs and viruses. This is especially important as viruses like the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) can live on surfaces for a couple of days, increasing the likelihood of transmission.
Plastic steering wheel covers are disposable and can be thrown away after use, minimizing the risk of contamination for the next person who touches the wheel. They are often made with double elastic to ensure durability and provide an extra layer of protection. The covers come in different sizes, with standard sizes fitting steering wheels up to 24 inches and XL sizes fitting wheels up to 28 inches.
In addition to protecting against germs and viruses, plastic steering wheel covers can also be useful when checking on the engine. They allow you to touch the wheel after handling engine components without worrying about transferring dirt, oil, or other liquids. This can be especially helpful when you are far from home and need to perform a quick engine check before getting back on the road.
Overall, plastic steering wheel covers are a practical solution for maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of your vehicle's steering wheel, providing protection against a range of potential contaminants, from dust and mites to harmful viruses.
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They are useful to have in your glove compartment when you need to check the engine
It is always useful to have disposable plastic steering wheel covers in your glove compartment. They can be essential in safeguarding your steering wheel from dirt, grease, and general wear and tear. They are also useful when you need to check your engine. You can quickly transfer sand, dirt, oil, and other motor liquids from the engine to your steering wheel. The plastic cover can prevent contamination and the spread of germs, bacteria, and viruses.
These covers come in different sizes, such as the standard size, which fits steering wheels up to 24 inches, and the XL size, which fits steering wheels up to 28 inches. They are usually made with double elastic to ensure durability and provide better protection.
Some people may find it unnecessary to have disposable plastic steering wheel covers, but they can be a must-have for your vehicle. They are especially useful if you are far from home and need to check your engine. You can avoid getting your steering wheel dirty and contaminated by simply using a disposable plastic cover.
Additionally, if you need to park your car in the garage for a long time, a plastic wheel cover will protect your steering wheel from dust and mites, which can be potential allergy triggers. Overall, having a few disposable plastic steering wheel covers in your glove compartment can be very handy in various situations.
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They are called clam shells and are a dealer-only item
The plastic cover under the steering wheel is called a "clam shell." It is a dealer-only item, meaning it is only available through authorized dealerships and cannot be purchased directly from parts manufacturers or other retailers. This cover is an essential component of the steering assembly, providing protection and aesthetic appeal.
The clam shell cover is designed to fit snugly around the steering column, enclosing the intricate mechanisms within. It serves as a protective barrier, safeguarding the steering column from dust, debris, and potential damage. This cover also enhances the overall appearance of the steering assembly, providing a sleek and finished look to the area behind the steering wheel.
Removing and installing this cover can be a delicate task. It typically involves carefully detaching the cover from the steering column, being mindful of any wiring or components that may be connected to it. In some cases, additional components such as the footwell panel, knee bolster, and lower panel may need to be temporarily removed to access the cover properly. It is important to follow the vehicle-specific instructions or seek professional assistance to ensure a successful and safe installation.
The clam shell cover is specifically designed for each vehicle model, ensuring a precise fit and seamless integration with the steering column. Its construction takes into account the unique dimensions and contours of the steering assembly, allowing it to securely attach to the designated mounting points. This customization ensures that the cover blends in with the overall design of the vehicle's interior, maintaining its visual appeal.
As a dealer-only item, the clam shell cover can be purchased through authorized dealerships. Dealerships typically have access to genuine parts designed specifically for the make and model of the vehicle. By providing the necessary details, such as the vehicle identification number or specific part number, dealerships can source the correct clam shell cover, ensuring a perfect match for the steering column. This ensures that the cover not only functions as intended but also meets the aesthetic expectations of the vehicle owner.
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Frequently asked questions
The plastic cover under the steering wheel is called a "clam shell".
Plastic steering wheel covers protect your steering wheel from dirt, grease, and general wear and tear. They also prevent contamination and the spread of germs and bacteria.
Plastic steering wheel covers can be used to safeguard your steering wheel from stains. They are also useful when you need to check your car's engine, as they prevent the transfer of dirt, oil, and other motor liquids from the engine to your steering wheel.
You can purchase plastic steering wheel covers from automotive dealerships and other automotive businesses. They are also available online.
Plastic steering wheel covers come in different sizes, including standard (up to 24 inches) and XL (up to 28 inches).











































