horent135

iTrader: (10)

I got an awesome steering wheel that includes the airbag for under $500. The bad thing is that the steering wheel is tan and my interior is black. Is there any place I can dye my steering wheel to black? I don't think auto shops will do it. Or maybe a DIY?

TSC17

I would contact Leatherique and see what they recommend. They offer a lot in terms of re-dye products and services, but not sure about changing colors.

Guitarman

If you have a local auto paint supply store, they typically carry either DuPont or SEM leather/ vinyl dyes (actually an elastomeric paint) and you can do it yourself. You can also buy a shaker can of black vinyl color.

Steps;

1) degrease the leather

2) lightly sand with 400 to 600 grit

3) degrease again and wipe with iso alcohol.

4) spray the black dye with either the off the shelf shaker can, or the mixed can of dye with an airbrush, paint spray gun, or a spray cannister such as the type Home Depot sells (you can put just about any paint type in it) 2 coats to cover.

5) allow to dry, then spray a clear (satin or semi gloss) sealer such as SEM Color Coat Flexible Coating. It's the same type of sealer used on OEM seats to protect the colored dye.

If you do the prep conscientiously, the re-color will last a long, long time. I've been through this type of thing many times. I did the center console armrest of my GS400 in Ivory using these steps, 6 months go and it still looks like new.

Don't skip the clear sealer because a steering wheel comes in constant contact with sweaty hands, body salt and pressure and the color WILL come off over time, unless clear sealed.

Good luck!