If you own a Mitsubishi Lancer GTS, you already know how important the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel is to your driving experience. It is not just a piece of plastic or leather you hold — it is your connection to the road. Whether you are looking to replace a damaged steering wheel, upgrade to a sportier design, or simply understand what your Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel is made of, this guide has everything you need.
The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS is a performance-oriented trim of the popular Lancer lineup. It comes with a well-designed cabin, and the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel plays a big role in that sporty feel. But over time, wear and tear happens. Leather peels, the grip fades, and sometimes the internal mechanics need attention.
In this blog, we will walk you through everything — from wheel rim price and alloy wheels cost to where to find genuine parts. We will also cover car rim replacement, steel vs alloy options, and real price examples so you know exactly what to expect before spending a single dollar.
What Makes the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS Steering Wheel Special?
The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel is designed with a driver-first mindset. Unlike the base Lancer trim, the GTS comes with a sport-tuned steering wheel that features:
- A leather-wrapped rim for a firm, comfortable grip
- Mounted controls for audio, cruise control, and phone connectivity
- A multi-function design that keeps your hands on the wheel at all times
- A sporty three-spoke layout that matches the GTS performance identity
The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel also integrates with the SRS airbag system, which means any replacement must be done carefully. A wrong fit can disable safety systems or trigger airbag malfunction codes.
Understanding what makes this steering wheel unique helps you make a smarter buying decision when it is time for a replacement or upgrade.
Mitsubishi Lancer GTS Steering Wheel Rim Cost — What to Expect
One of the first questions people ask is: how much does a Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel rim cost?
The answer depends on several things — whether you want OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts or aftermarket options, the material (steel vs alloy), and where you buy it. Let us break it down simply.
OEM Steering Wheel Rim Price
An OEM Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel is made exactly to factory specifications. These are the safest option because they are guaranteed to fit and work with all your car’s electronics and safety systems.
Real Price Examples:
- OEM Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel (2008–2015): $180 – $350 depending on the year and trim
- Steering wheel hub adapter (if needed for aftermarket): $30 – $80
- Full OEM replacement with airbag clock spring: $400 – $600
You can find genuine OEM parts at trusted sources like https://mitsubishiautostore.com/, which specializes in authentic Mitsubishi parts at competitive prices.
Aftermarket Steering Wheel Rim Price
Aftermarket steering wheels are popular among GTS owners who want a sportier or custom look. These come in a wide range of designs — from racing-style flat-bottom wheels to carbon fiber finishes.
Real Price Examples:
- Basic aftermarket steering wheel (Momo, NRG, Sparco): $60 – $200
- Premium racing steering wheel with carbon fiber: $200 – $500
- Steering wheel quick release kit: $25 – $70
Keep in mind — aftermarket Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheels usually require a hub adapter, and they may disable mounted controls like audio buttons and cruise control unless you buy a specific wiring adapter.
Steel vs Alloy — Which Steering Wheel Rim Is Better for the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS?
When people talk about steel vs alloy in the context of the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel, they are usually referring to the internal structural frame of the wheel, not the rim of the tire. Here is a clear comparison:
Steel Frame Steering Wheels
Steel-framed steering wheels are heavier and older in design. They offer:
- High durability and resistance to bending
- Lower cost of manufacturing
- Less common in modern sport trims like the GTS
Cost range: Slightly cheaper — but rare in modern Lancer GTS builds.
Alloy Frame Steering Wheels
Most modern Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheels use a magnesium or aluminum alloy frame. This offers:
- Lighter weight, improving steering response
- Better heat dissipation
- A premium feel that matches the GTS performance trim
Alloy wheels cost is generally higher, but the performance benefit is worth it. Most GTS owners prefer alloy-based steering wheels for their responsive feel and sporty aesthetic.
Verdict: For the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS, alloy is the better choice — and it is what the factory installs. If you are replacing your Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel, always go with an alloy or magnesium-alloy construction to maintain that OEM feel.
Key Price Factors for Mitsubishi Lancer GTS Steering Wheel Replacement
The wheel rim price or full Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel replacement cost varies for many reasons. Here are the most important ones:
1. Model Year
The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS was produced from around 2002 to 2017 depending on your market. Steering wheels from earlier models (2002–2007) can differ significantly in design and fitment from later ones (2008–2015). Always confirm the year before ordering.
2. OEM vs Aftermarket
As mentioned earlier, OEM parts cost more but fit perfectly and preserve airbag functionality. Aftermarket options are cheaper but may require extra adapters and might not support all mounted functions.
3. Condition — New vs Used
- New OEM steering wheel: $180 – $350
- Used OEM steering wheel (good condition): $60 – $130
- Refurbished leather-wrapped: $90 – $180
Used parts can be a budget-friendly option if bought from a reliable source. Just inspect them carefully for airbag module damage or worn leather that looks worse in person.
4. Installation Labor Cost
Replacing a Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel is not always a DIY job. Because of the airbag system, many mechanics charge extra for this service.
Labor cost estimate: $50 – $150 depending on your location and the shop.
If you are confident with tools and know how to safely discharge the airbag system, this is a manageable DIY task. But for most people, professional installation is the safer call.
5. Brand of the Replacement Wheel
Top brands for Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel replacements include:
- Mitsubishi OEM — factory perfect, highest compatibility
- NRG Innovations — popular for sport and racing setups
- Momo — Italian brand, premium quality
- Sparco — racing heritage, excellent grip
- Grant — budget-friendly, decent quality
Trusted retailers like https://mitsubishiautostore.com/ carry genuine Mitsubishi-compatible parts and can help you find the right fit for your GTS trim.
Car Rim Replacement vs Steering Wheel Replacement — Know the Difference
Sometimes people confuse car rim replacement (the wheel that holds your tire) with steering wheel replacement. These are two very different things.
- Car rim (wheel rim): The metal ring that your tire mounts onto. Made of steel or alloy. Typically costs $50 – $300 per rim depending on size and material.
- Steering wheel: The control wheel inside your car cabin that you turn to steer. Costs $60 – $600 depending on brand and type.
For the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel specifically, the OEM wheel uses a 14.5-inch diameter design — standard for this vehicle class. This size works well with the GTS cabin dimensions and provides a balanced feel between comfort and sportiness.
If your concern is the alloy wheels cost for the tires — that is a separate topic. The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS stock rim size is 17 inches, and alloy wheel sets for this car typically range from $400 – $900 for a set of four, depending on the brand and finish.
Where to Buy a Mitsubishi Lancer GTS Steering Wheel
Finding the right Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel at the right price requires knowing where to look. Here are your best options:
1. Mitsubishi Auto Store (Recommended)
For genuine and high-quality Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel parts, https://mitsubishiautostore.com/ is one of the best places to start. They specialize in Mitsubishi vehicles and stock parts that are compatible with different Lancer trim levels including the GTS. Whether you need an OEM replacement or performance upgrade, this store is a reliable starting point.
2. eBay Motors
eBay is great for finding used or aftermarket Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheels at lower prices. Always check seller ratings and read product descriptions carefully. Ask the seller for the part number to confirm compatibility.
3. RockAuto
RockAuto is an online auto parts retailer with competitive pricing on OEM and aftermarket parts. Search by year, make, and model to find compatible steering components for your Lancer GTS.
4. Local Dealerships
Your local Mitsubishi dealership can order genuine OEM Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel parts directly from the manufacturer. It may cost a bit more, but you get guaranteed fitment and a warranty on the part.
5. Junkyards and Auto Salvage Yards
If you are on a tight budget, salvage yards can be a goldmine. You can find a used Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel in decent condition for as little as $40 – $80. Just inspect it thoroughly before purchase.
How to Install a Mitsubishi Lancer GTS Steering Wheel — Quick Overview
Replacing your Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel involves a few key steps:
- Disconnect the battery — wait at least 15 minutes to discharge the airbag system capacitor
- Remove the airbag — carefully unplug the airbag connector (do NOT pull hard)
- Remove the center bolt — usually a 24mm bolt holding the wheel to the steering column
- Pull the wheel off — use a steering wheel puller if it is stuck
- Install the new wheel — align the center mark and torque the bolt to spec (usually 33–36 ft-lbs)
- Reconnect the airbag and battery
Always use a torque wrench. And if you are not comfortable with airbag systems, let a professional handle it. A mistake here is not just expensive — it is dangerous.
FAQs
What is the stock diameter of the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel?
The stock Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel has a diameter of approximately 14.5 inches (370mm). This is the OEM size used across most Lancer GTS model years.
Can I replace my Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel with an aftermarket one?
Yes, you can replace it with an aftermarket wheel. However, you will need a hub adapter specific to the Mitsubishi Lancer GTS. You should also be aware that aftermarket wheels may disable your mounted controls (audio, cruise) unless you use a compatible wiring harness adapter.
How much does it cost to replace a Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel?
The total cost depends on the type of wheel you choose:
- OEM replacement: $180 – $350 for the wheel + $50 – $150 for labor
- Aftermarket wheel: $60 – $300 for the wheel + hub adapter + labor
You can find OEM-compatible options at https://mitsubishiautostore.com/ for competitive pricing.
Will replacing the steering wheel affect my airbag?
Yes. The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel houses the driver’s airbag. Replacing it with an aftermarket wheel typically means removing the airbag entirely, which disables that safety feature. If you want to keep airbag functionality, always use an OEM-compatible replacement.
What is the difference between steel and alloy steering wheel frames?
Steel frames are heavier and older in design. Alloy (aluminum or magnesium) frames are lighter, more heat-resistant, and offer better steering feel. The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel uses an alloy frame from the factory, and it is recommended to stick with alloy for replacements.
Where is the best place to buy a Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel online?
The best places include https://mitsubishiautostore.com/ for genuine parts, eBay Motors for used options, and RockAuto for aftermarket alternatives. Always confirm compatibility with your specific model year before buying.
Conclusion
The Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel is more than just a functional part — it defines how you feel connected to your car. Whether you are dealing with a worn-out grip, a cracked rim, or simply want a performance upgrade, knowing your options makes all the difference.
From understanding wheel rim price and alloy wheels cost to comparing steel vs alloy and knowing where to find genuine parts, this guide covers it all. Real price examples show that you can find a quality Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel for anywhere between $60 and $600 depending on your needs and budget.
For the most reliable and compatible Mitsubishi Lancer GTS steering wheel parts, always start with a trusted source like https://mitsubishiautostore.com/. They carry Mitsubishi-specific parts, making it easier to find the right fit without the guesswork.
Whether you need a full car rim replacement or a simple steering wheel refresh, make sure to prioritize safety, compatibility, and quality. Your hands are on that wheel every time you drive — it deserves the best.
