Why Is My Heated Steering Wheel Not Working? 5 Reasons And Fixes

Driving in the colder months can be uncomfortable, but a heated steering wheel can help you sort out this problem and keep your hands warm. That’s why whenever your heated steering wheel becomes stuck or malfunctions, it can irritate the user.

If you’re facing this issue, then chill out! By following the troubleshooting tips we’ve provided, you can identify the problem and fix it.

Several factors, such as a malfunctioning fuse, Defective heating element, wiring issues, low battery voltage, or broken switches, can cause a malfunctioning heated steering wheel.

So, You can look over the reasons we’ve given here in detail, but before navigating here, Let me introduce the basics of this feature!

What Is a Heated Steering Wheel?

Experts are always trying to make human life more comfortable. So, they invented different techniques to make life easier and more luxurious. One of these innovations is the heated steering wheel.

A heated steering wheel is a feature in a car that allows the steering wheel to become warm to the touch, providing the driver with added comfort during colder weather conditions.

This feature is becoming increasingly popular in newer car models as it comforts drivers who frequently drive in colder climates.

How Does a Heated Steering Wheel Work?

A heated steering wheel is a helpful feature that can make driving in cold weather more comfortable and enjoyable. The heating element is typically located beneath the steering wheel’s surface and powered by electricity.

When you activate the heated steering wheel, an electrical current flows through the heating element, causing it to heat up. The heating element is usually made of a conductive material, such as wire or carbon fiber, that can withstand high temperatures.

As the heating element warms up, it transfers heat to the surface of the steering wheel, which in turn warms up your hands. The heat produced by the heating element can be controlled using a switch or button.

Some heated steering wheels also have a timer that automatically turns off the heating element after a particular time, usually around 15-20 minutes. This prevents the battery from draining and ensures the steering wheel doesn’t become too hot.

Installation Rate of Heated Steering Wheel:

According to a report by Research, the global market for heated steering wheels is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 3.24% from 2020 to 2027. The increasing demand for luxury vehicles and the rising awareness of the benefits of heated steering wheels drives this growth.

For further details, click the link here.
Many cars show the feature heated steering wheel, some of which are mentioned below.

Top 5 Reasons Your Heated Steering Wheel Is Not Working – Don’t miss

Any fault in the component of the heated steering wheel system can affect the working of the heated steering wheel. Some critical problems and their solution are mentioned below.

1. Wiring issue:

A wiring issue in a heated steering wheel can cause the feature to malfunction or stop working altogether. If the wiring that connects the heating element to the electrical system is damaged, loose, or corroded, it can prevent the current from flowing correctly and cause the steering wheel to stop heating.

• Solution:

If the wirings are damaged or corrupted, they must be replaced. This may require removing and disassembling the steering wheel to access the wiring. The damaged wiring can be cut out and replaced with new wires connected to the heating and electrical system.

If the issue is a loose connection, it may need to be tightened or reconnected. In some cases, cleaning the connectors with a wire brush or sandpaper can help improve the connection and restore the heating function.

2. Blown a Fuse:

Fuses are safety devices designed to protect electrical circuits. Suppose the fuse that protects the electric power steering system blows. It will stop the flow of electricity to the power steering. And results in the failure of the whole power steering system, including the power heated feature.

• Solution:

You have to locate the fuse and replace it as soon as possible. Click the link to learn what to do if the power steering system fuse has blown out.

3. Broken Switches:

A switch that controls the heated steering system is usually located in the steering center or on the dashboard. The button controls the on and off of the heated steering wheel. If the switch is broken, it may not be able to properly control the heating element, or it may not be able to activate it at all.

• Solution:

First, you need to identify the specific switch. Disconnect the negative battery cable to replace the switch to prevent electrical shocks. Then, remove the old button by carefully pinning it out of its socket or using a screwdriver to remove any screws holding it. Install the new switch by inserting it into the socket and securing it with screws or clips.

Finally, reconnect the negative battery cable and test the heated steering wheel to ensure it works properly. If the issue persists, a deeper electrical problem may require further analysis by a qualified mechanic or electrician.

4. Faulty Heating Element:

The heating element in the heated steering system is responsible for generating heat in the steering wheel, and if it’s damaged or not functioning correctly, it won’t be able to produce heat.

• Solution:

The only solution for a faulty heating steering element is to replace it. To locate the heating element, you have to disassemble the steering wheel. Taking your car to the mechanic is recommended if you know nothing about automotive repair.

Once you’ve located the heating element, you’ll need to remove it from the steering wheel assembly. This may require using a screwdriver, pliers, or other tools, depending on the type of steering wheel and heating element.

Once you’ve removed the faulty heating element, you must replace it with a new one. The replacement heating element should be the same size, shape, and wattage as the original one. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to correctly connect the new heating element to the electrical system.

After replacing the heating element, reassemble the steering wheel and test the heated steering wheel function to ensure it works correctly.

5. Low Battery Voltage:

Typically, the voltage required for a heated power steering system to operate ranges from 12 volts to 14 volts. Low battery voltage cannot run the heated steering wheel feature properly and causes it to shut down completely.

• Solution:

First, you must check your battery voltage with a multimeter to fix this issue. If the voltage is low, you have to charge the battery. But if there is an issue with the battery, you have to replace the battery.

Conclusion:

If any component of the heated steering wheel, such as the fuse, wires, control system, or battery, is not working properly, there may be a cause of a faulty heated steering wheel.

I tried to explain all the reasons and fixes why the heated steering wheel was not working. But there may be one or more issues with your heated steering wheel. Before taking any step, it is essential to identify the exact problem and then try fixing it.

If you ever face issues regarding the heated steering wheel, share them with us. Your contribution will be a great pride for us.

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