A custom steering wheel is one of the most popular ways to personalize your car’s interior. But is replacing it legal? What regulations apply in Poland? Is approval (homologation) required? Here, we answer the most common questions about the legality of steering wheel replacement.
What do the regulations say about replacing the steering wheel? Legality of steering wheel replacement.
According to Polish law, the steering wheel is a key safety component of the vehicle. This means not every modification is allowed – the most important requirement is compliance with approval and safety standards set by the Minister of Infrastructure and the Road Traffic Act.
The regulations don’t explicitly forbid replacing the steering wheel, but it must be:
✅ technically functional,
✅ properly matched to the vehicle,
✅ installed in a way that does not compromise driving safety,
✅ compliant with approval standards (especially in cars equipped with airbags).
What about the airbag?
If your car has a factory-installed airbag in the steering wheel, replacing it with a wheel without an airbag can result in:
🚨 invalidating the vehicle’s approval,
🚨 problems during technical inspections,
🚨 or even legal consequences in the event of an accident.
Therefore, if your car has an airbag, you should only replace the wheel with a model that supports the airbag system – i.e., one compatible with the SRS system.
Is homologation required?
Yes. The steering wheel fitted to a car used on public roads should have approval in accordance with ECE R12 or ECE R17 (safety standards for interior vehicle components). A lack of homologation may result in:
- confiscation of your registration document during a roadside check,
- failing a technical inspection,
- and even insurance issues if an accident occurs.
How to avoid problems?
🔎 Buy steering wheels from trusted suppliers offering approved products.
🔧 Have the installation done by professionals experienced with airbag systems.
📝 Keep invoices and documents proving homologation – they may be needed for inspections or police checks.
Steering wheel replacement and insurance
Remember: an illegal or improper steering wheel modification can be a reason for an insurance company to refuse to pay compensation. Insurers may claim that tampering with safety components contributed to the accident’s outcome.
Summary: is it worth replacing the steering wheel?
Yes – but only legally and with safety in mind. Replacing your steering wheel can transform your car’s interior and improve ergonomics, but it must comply with regulations and be performed professionally.
If you’re planning to replace your steering wheel and want reliable solutions, visit our Control Customs website.
Give your car unique style and ensure safety with Control Customs!