For owners of the 2017 Abarth 124 Spider looking to personalize their ride, even small details like the steering wheel badge can make a difference. Many enthusiasts explore replacing the original badge to add a custom touch or refresh its appearance. However, safety should always be a priority, especially when it comes to components near airbags. This article explores a smart and safe upgrade using soft plastic hub center caps, offering both style and peace of mind for your Abarth 124 Spider.
One common concern with aftermarket steering wheel badges is material safety, particularly in the event of airbag deployment. Hard materials like aluminum or rigid plastic can become dangerous projectiles if an airbag is activated. This is why opting for softer materials is crucial. Fortunately, a readily available and ingenious solution exists: soft plastic hub center caps.
These caps, typically designed for wheel centers, are made from a pliable plastic material, significantly reducing the risk of injury during airbag deployment. Beyond safety, they often come with an attractive silver or chrome ring around the edge, adding a subtle yet noticeable visual upgrade to your 2017 Abarth 124 Spider‘s steering wheel. This chrome detail can enhance the sporty aesthetic of the interior without being overly flashy.
Finding soft plastic versions of standard 56mm hub center caps might seem challenging, as aluminum options tend to dominate online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. However, online retailers like AliExpress offer inexpensive alternatives, often described as 3D stickers or PVC wheel stickers. These are not aluminum discs with a plastic coating but appear to be solid soft plastic, making them ideal for this application. For a minimal investment, these can be an excellent experiment to enhance your steering wheel.
Installing these soft plastic hub center caps as steering wheel badges is straightforward. The key is proper surface preparation. First, thoroughly clean the existing badge area with soap and water, ensuring all dirt and grime are removed. After drying, use an alcohol pad or isopropyl alcohol to further cleanse the surface and remove any residual oils. Warming the adhesive side of the hub cap with a hairdryer before application can improve adhesion. Finally, firmly press and hold the badge in place for about a minute to ensure a strong bond. This process will ensure the badge stays secure, even with temperature fluctuations inside the car.
While the silver/chrome ring version offers a stylish look, black background soft plastic badges with the Abarth colored shield are also available. These provide an alternative aesthetic, closer to the OEM Abarth steering wheel badge, while maintaining the crucial soft plastic safety feature. These are also typically hub center cap stick-ons, applied using the same cleaning and adhesion techniques.
For enhanced adhesion, especially in varying climates, consider using an adhesion promoter before applying the badge. This extra step can further ensure a long-lasting and secure fit.
In conclusion, upgrading your 2017 Abarth 124 Spider steering wheel badge with soft plastic hub center caps is a smart modification. It prioritizes safety by using a non-rigid material in the airbag deployment zone, while also offering a subtle yet stylish visual enhancement. This simple DIY project provides a perfect blend of safety, aesthetics, and ease of installation for any Abarth 124 Spider owner.
