Abstract: The present invention relates to a steering wheel assembly. The steering wheel assembly has a center portion and an outer rim. The outer rim encircles the center portion. A cover and an upper housing are also added to the center portion. The cover goes over the top of the center portion whereas the upper housing is positioned below the cover. The upper housing is constructed such that it is capable of being depressed from a normal position to a compressed position. An intermediate portion is also added to the steering wheel. The intermediate portion is positioned between the outer rim and the center portion and forms an interface with the cover. The steering wheel is constructed such that when the upper housing is in the normal position, there is no gap at the interface between the cover and the intermediate portion. This may be accomplished by constructing the intermediate portion to include an overhanging portion that overlaps and fits together with the cover.

Abstract: A steering wheel back cover is disclosed which is composed of multiple interlocking parts. Specifically, the invention provides a two-piece steering wheel back cover which may be securely assembled about a steering column and/or steering wheel of a vehicle. The steering wheel back cover of the invention may be configured to conform to the shape of the steering wheel and to provide an improved view of the control panel of the dashboard to a vehicle operator, and allow attachment of various multi-function switch accessories.