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Known as a Brodie knob, suicide spinner, knuckle buster, or wheel spinner, a universal steering wheel knob is one of those super fun add-ons that make driving easier. While these are more common on John Deere tractors, semis, and 1970s Cadillacs in ’80s cop shows, a steering wheel knob can be a useful driving aid, even one with modern-day power steering. But in a sea of drop-ship crap across Amazon, how do you pick one that isn’t going to fall off into your hands and see you careen into the ahead light pole?
Easy, you stick with The Drive’s expert staff and listen to our picks. So let’s get to giving you the tools to make a sick J-turn, err, regular old turn… Yep, that’s it.
Our Methodology
I could’ve thrown a ton of different knobs into this list, as the internet is littered with them. I didn’t. Why, because most of the steering wheel knobs on sale today are utter trash. They’re cheap plastic, fake chrome, and have even worse hardware that all but ensures you’ll be driving down the road one day, grab the knob to make an easy turn, and it falls off the wheel sending you into whatever is in front of you.
This is why I went for just two steering wheel knob picks from the hundreds available online. Let me explain why.
Best Steering Wheel Knobs Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
AproFamily Steering Wheel Knob
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Good hardware
- Adjustable
Cons
- May have to remove the rubber insert for fitment
- Knob might be a bit small for some
Runner Up
RoadPro 8-Ball
Pros
- Classic design
- Large knob
- Quality hardware
Cons
- Reported squeaks
- May have to remove rubber insert to fit
What Features to Look For With a Steering Wheel Knob
Installation Mount
Depending on the type of knob you choose, installation can take seconds or several minutes. Some require some adjustment to ensure that they don’t slip on the steering wheel, which can be dangerous if you’re driving when it happens. Other knobs have a snap-on design and/or adhesive tape that doesn’t require screws or tools for easy installation.
Pricing
While you can get one for under $10, don’t. They’re cheap plastic and absolutely will break on you, especially if you use them on larger vehicles. But don’t worry, you won’t have to spend more than $20 on a good one.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
Q: Are they hard to remove or reposition?
A: Installation varies depending on the type of knob you purchase. Some manufacturers require screws for their products, while others use a simpler snap-on attachment.
Q: Can I use a knob on a leather steering wheel?
A: Some spinner knobs are better for leather steering wheels than others. Some include protective pads that prevent the steering wheel from getting scratched or dented.
Q: Are they illegal in certain states?
A: The name “suicide knob” might make it sound like it’s against the law to use steering wheel knobs. None of the 50 states, however, have statutes that ban their use. A few states even require handicapped individuals to use a steering aid of some type. Some vehicles that transport particular materials, however, are not allowed to use steering wheel knobs.
