Interior trim refresh

[The_Laird]

As you might know, my S8 has silver grey leather and the steering wheel, in particular, was beginning to look a every bit of its 196K miles (see photos). After talking to the nice folks at Auto Trim Systems, I abandoned plan A (to have the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake recovered) and instead had them spray painted (yes, really!).

The technician also repainted the handbrake surround and the seat memory switch surround, both of which were pretty badly chipped.

Some of the parts won't be fitted for a day or two to make sure the paint sets fully before I muck about with them, and I'm to wear gloves to protect the steering wheel from my sweaty mitts! then a quick buff with a microfibre cloth should restore a slightly more glossy look.

I think the photos speak for themselves - especially the steering wheel.

I'm now waiting for a quote to get my driver's seat recovered in genuine Audi silver grey hide that I'm buying from Neil.

[HPsauce]

The finish you have on the handbrake lever (and steering wheel) is very similar to what I achieved with Woollies product on my handbrake, which I believe can be spray painted, though I brushed it on.
I also painted the plastic surround to match - pictures on an old thread somewhere.....
(Though mine is beige not grey)
And, as noted in the "memory button repair" thread I also used Woollies on that panel.

I did debate whether to recolour my steering wheel and gear shift to match, but left them alone in the end. It seemed a better match to the plastics etc. around them.

Edit: Thread here. You even asked about it way back then in 2014! http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/showpost....09&postcount=7

[The_Laird]

I do remember asking about it, but tried with my Woolies stuff to little effect with the steering wheel, so didn’t attempt anything else. Perhaps it’s a combination of the silver grey and high mileage on my car?

[HPsauce]

Originally Posted by The_Laird

tried with my Woolies stuff to little effect with the steering wheel

Yes, my efforts on the drivers seat were definitely not brilliant. The professional job done on all my seats last summer, when in the capable hands of the D2 Doctor, is however absolutely superb!

[The_Laird]

So, I've continued with a couple more vanity projects: re-webbed the front seat belts and had the B-pillar panels stripped and repainted (well, I actually got seat belts and B-pillar trims from A8 Parts, got them sorted and then swapped them.

Before and after photos below.

I now have a spare set of belts and B-pillar trim panels if anyone would like them to get the same treatment. Belts were £65 each (plus travel costs. Can't remember what the B-pillar trims cost, but will get a quote if anyone is interested), plus whatever I paid A8 Parts (not much!) PM me if interested.