I have a sheepskin backed strap on my 4/4. The car has the reduced louvres, so the strap sits forward of them, on a plain section of the bonnet. I really like the look, as well as the added security (though in 30,000 miles I have only had a bonnet catch fail once).
I ensure that each time I clean the car, and particularly after a wet drive, I release the strap and brush any muck from the sheepskin. I also protect the leather with G Wax, which is sold for protection of leather walking boots.
8 years since the strap was fitted and the bonnet is fine.
Bud
__________
2003 - 4/4
Mine is rubbing through the paint, after touching up I will fit some 3M clear protection if I keep the strap, I have some spare if you would like some.
