I've put about 1800 miles on my 2019 ES350 (UL trim) and the steering wheel is really starting to bug me. The padding is lumpy underneath the leather wrap, all accross the top of the wheel. It's as if the padding is uniform (voids) and/or the stitching hidden under the wood panel is uneven and too tight, causing it to bunch. Visually, it's more noticeable from an angle (passenger or back seat) than straight on in the driver's seat. I typically grip the wheel at 9 and three, or more commonly one hand at 7 or 4 cruising on the highway. However, when I do grab the wheel at the top, really when I'm turning, it feels bad. On one hand trying to describe the problem here seems petty. On the other hand, it's THE major touch point on the car and huge disappointment on my new, ~$55K car...Okay, yes that's the sticker and I paid less than that but I've never seen anything like this on any of my previous cars.

And no, I don't have super human strength. If my grip could actually mangle a steering wheel, I would totally own it and brag about it to anyone who would listen

Thoughts? Is anybody else notice this kind of defect on their vehicle?

 

I have read that some others have this issue. Mine is fine, but if it weren't I would raise it with the dealer ASAP.

 

I believe someone else here had their wheel replaced under warranty...