What Size Steering Wheel Cover Do I Need? Sizing Guide

A steering wheel cover only works well if it fits snugly, and the wrong size will either refuse to go on or slip around as you drive. Sizing is straightforward once you know what to measure. This guide walks you through it, and you can find options in our steering wheel covers section.

How do you measure your steering wheel?

There are two measurements that determine fit, and most covers list both:

1. Outer diameter, which is the distance straight across the wheel from one outer edge to the other. Measure across the widest part of the ring.
2. Grip circumference or thickness, which is the distance around the cross-section of the rim where your hands grip. Wrap a flexible tape measure around the rim itself to get this.

Use a tape measure for accuracy, and write down both numbers in inches and centimeters so you can match them to a product's stated range. The grip thickness matters because a thicker or thinner rim than the cover expects will affect how tightly it fits.

What are the common sizes?

Most passenger cars fall into a standard range, which is why many covers are sold as a single common size. Typical figures look like this:

• Diameter of roughly 14.5 to 15 inches (about 37 to 39 cm) fits the majority of cars, SUVs, and trucks.
• Covers are usually labeled with a diameter range and a grip thickness range rather than one exact number.
• Vehicles with unusually thin, thick, or large wheels may need a size outside the common range, so always check the listed dimensions.

If your wheel sits inside the standard range, a common-size cover will usually fit. When in doubt, match your measured diameter and grip thickness to the product's stated range rather than assuming.

How do you fit a tight cover?

A cover should fit tightly, since a snug fit is what keeps it from slipping while you steer. New covers, especially leather and silicone styles, can feel very stiff at first. To get one on:

• Warm it up on a hot day or leave it in a warm room, since gentle warmth makes the material more flexible and easier to stretch.
• Hook the cover over the top of the wheel first, then work it down both sides toward the bottom.
• Use the heels of your hands to roll and stretch the lower edge over the rim last, which is the hardest part.
• Work patiently around the wheel rather than forcing one spot, and make sure the cover seats evenly all the way around.

A correctly sized cover is meant to be a struggle to install, because that tightness is exactly what stops it from spinning later. If it slides on too easily, it is probably too big.

Once you know your diameter and grip thickness, you can compare materials, sizes, prices, and buyer reviews on Amazon. Browse our guide to steering wheel covers.