Is the once proud emblem on your Mazda CX-5 steering wheel peeling and bringing down the interior look? Don’t fret!
You can easily refresh it yourself with vinyl wrapping. Here’s a quick and simple guide:
What you’ll need:
- Small, sharp knife (Exacto knife recommended)
- Microfiber cloth
- Rubbing alcohol
- Squeegee (credit card can work in a pinch)
- Scissors
- Masking tape (optional)
- Vinyl wrap (choose chrome to match the original, or a different color for a custom touch!) I’ve linked what I used at the end.
Steps:
Safety First!
Turn off your car and disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical issues while working on the airbag assembly.
Prep the Emblem:
Carefully use the knife to remove any loose or peeling pieces of the emblem. Then, clean the area thoroughly with rubbing alcohol and the microfiber cloth to remove any dirt, oils, or residue that might prevent the vinyl from sticking properly.
Measure and Cut:
Carefully measure the emblem. You can use masking tape to create a template if that helps. Cut a piece of vinyl slightly larger than the emblem, leaving a small border for easy handling.
Wrap it Up!
Carefully peel back a small portion of the vinyl’s backing and align it with the top of the emblem. Use the squeegee (or credit card) to smooth out the vinyl as you work your way down, pushing out any air bubbles. Applying heat from a heat gun or hair dryer works well with softening Vvivid vinyl.
Trim and Finish:
Once the vinyl is fully adhered, use the sharp knife to carefully trim the excess vinyl around the edge of the emblem. Be cautious not to scratch the underlying plastic.
Not too shabby.
I had some extra so I wrapped these buttons as well.
Reconnect and Admire!
Reconnect your car battery and enjoy your freshly rejuvenated steering wheel!
Bonus Tip: Apply gentle heat with a hairdryer on low setting while squeegeeing the vinyl for even better adhesion, especially around curves.
If you’ve done this, show off your renewed CX-5 in the comments!
Disclaimer: While this DIY approach can save you money, always prioritize safety when working with car parts, especially those related to airbags. If you’re uncomfortable with any steps, consult a professional.
Link to parts:
Carbon Fiber Vinyl from Vvivid: https://amzn.to/3wUP4xf
Wrapping Tool Kit w/ Heat Gun: https://amzn.to/3Ra2goH
Titanium Dash Trim: https://amzn.to/3tpFuNq
Leather Steering wheel wrap kit: https://amzn.to/3vkQWOt