Steering wheel flaking?

I am detailing an '06 BMW 5-series and the steering wheel was just filthy and really shiny. I steam cleaned it and tons of dirt came off and now it's clean. However the leather is really dry and it is flaking all over the place. Now the wheel feels like rough sandpaper. It wasn't doing it before. Is there anything I can do about this? THanks.

 

Did you use leather conditioner?

 

I tried using it but it still feels like sandpaper.

 

any close up pics?

 

Sorry, I'm bad at taking pics and only have a camera phone so this is the best I could do. You can still see it.

 

just leave it .. ive worked on so many BMW cars where the customer neglected the interior ... the steering wheel is straight up deteriorating .. only way to fix is to buy a new one

 

Good advice, thanks.

 

BTW you missed two tiny lil flakes of dust . . one on the dash and one on the drivers front floor =P .. im just teasing .. have fun detailing

 

I agree. If it's under warranty - take it to the dealer.

 

Haha don't worry I'll vacuum it later.

 

Yeah that's what I'll tell the customer.

 

On most leather conditioners the containers label warns against its use on steering wheels as it will make them slippery and unsafe. Oil / cream cannot permeate the leather and therefore remain on the surface; the same thing will apply to seating surfaces

Once UVR has damaged a surface enough that it crumbles there is nothing that will repair it, although you could try to temp improve it with a very light sanding to remove the loose debris

 

I have a client who HAS TO cover her steering wheel because the oils from her hands cause the steering wheel to break down at an incredible rate.

 

That must've been what caused it because it was so oily, the shiniest steering wheel I've ever seen.

 

My steering wheel was replaced under warranty as the oils in my hands were breaking down the leater incredibly fast. Took it in, was out the door with a new steering wheel in less than 30 minutes. When I drive, I tend to keep my hands on the plastic parts where the airbag is and not touch the leather too much. I only wash it with hot water, too, not conditioners.

I used leather cleaner and conditioner on the Explorer's steering wheel and you should see it now. All warped, it looks awful. Learned my mistake, luckily on my own vehicle...

 

Was that in a BMW? The customer's car is still under the original warranty.

BTW I steam cleaned the steering wheel, only way to do it. They are too dirty for leather cleaners I think.

 

Thanks for the tip, I have to buy some high grit sandpaper eventually.