Add comfort and safety with the multi-function steering wheel!
Content
The multifunction steering wheel is a handy feature in every car that allows you to comfortably operate multiple functions without taking your hands off the steering wheel. Both hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road guarantee optimal driving safety, which is why the multifunction steering wheel is an effective contribution to increased safety in the car.
Because several switches are within thumb reach, the steering wheel is held firmly with both hands. The positions of the individual switches are easy to remember. No need to lower your eyes, instead keep them still on the road.
Features of the multifunction steering wheel
Multifunction steering wheel with buttons and switches to control available and optional vehicle functions. Regular Functions:
- radio volume
– channel search
– source selection (CD/MP3/radio)
- Cruise control
– menu control of the multifunction display (navigation, communication, entertainment)
- and much more
Ideally, the car is ordered with a multifunctional steering wheel from the factory . However, this is quite expensive and therefore is not usually done. Used car buyers tend to overlook these features in the first place, and so the lack of a multi-function steering wheel is initially taken for granted. If it is available, it increases the value of the car . For those who do not want to give up this comfort and safety feature, the industry offers retrofit kits.
Are all cars suitable?
When retrofitting a car with a multifunction steering wheel, it all depends on what you want to achieve. . When it comes only to the safe and convenient operation of the dashboard functions, retrofitting is relatively easy. Unless you want to convert a multifunction steering wheel with cruise control, the project requires careful evaluation.
To retrofit a car with cruise control, an electronic accelerator is ideally required. . If the vehicle is equipped with a cable-operated mechanical accelerator, retrofitting is still possible, although it involves the installation of additional servomotors , which complicates the project and increases its cost.
Therefore, we especially recommend aspiring DIYers on a tight budget and experience to stick with e-accelerator cars. .
This modernization project will always be a real challenge.
Most likely, a determined DIY enthusiast will overdo it by trying to install cruise control in combination with a mechanical accelerator. .
Anyone can do it?
Despite what the manufacturers claim to the contrary, this project requires a lot of skill and experience. .
Retrofitting a multifunction steering wheel is not like replacing a car radio or retrofitting LED lighting.
Replacing and retrofitting the steering wheel involves disassembly and proper assembly of the airbag . If you make a mistake here, you risk serious injury or, if damaged, the failure of this safety feature. Therefore, we recommend that you correctly assess your competencies and, in case of doubt, entrust the installation to a professional. .
| Therefore, we are not responsible for errors resulting from the imitation of this description. The actions and steps described here are general guidelines and do not constitute an actual installation guide. . |
Procedure modifications
When installing the multifunction steering wheel, proceed according to the following steps:
| 1. Disconnect the battery. 2. Change wiring harness. 3. Modify the control unit. 4. Remove the steering wheel trim. 5. Disassemble the airbag. 6. If necessary, disassemble the steering wheel. 7. Install the retrofit kit. 8. Collect everything. 9. Reprogram the control unit. |
- Conditions for modifying the cable harness and control unit vary depending on the manufacturer . Many retrofit kits come with a simple plug-in module. Other solutions require cutting the harness cables and equipping them with additional plugs.
- In any case, before upgrading, it is recommended that you carefully read the installation manual. . Also, check the retrofit kit online. Other users have most likely encountered bugs and malfunctions and are happy to share their experience with others.
- For example, brake electronics VW Golf can cause an error message when installing the multifunction steering wheel, as the steering wheel angle is no longer recognized . This issue can be quickly resolved with the proper experience and tools, although as a user you must first know what to look for.
multifunction steering wheel cost
The retrofit kit for the multifunction steering wheel costs OK. €150-300 (±£132-264) , depending on the type and brand. The kit includes:
– control panel or steering wheel assembly
– wiring harness modification kit
- ties or stickers
- detailed guide
New airbag not included . Professional garage installation requires 2–3 hours, which means more EUR 200 (± £176) for work. Due to the complexity of this operation, this step is highly recommended. Due to the many things that can go wrong with this project, you are always safe with a professional installation.
Modernization of paddle shifters
When the steering wheel is already disassembled to facilitate the installation of multi-function buttons, it may be worth considering installing gear shift paddles . These are large toggle switches located directly behind the steering wheel and controlled by the index finger. . In semi-automatic or automatic transmissions, they allow you to change gears. Because the paddles are connected to the steering wheel, they always rotate with the steering wheel during steering maneuvers.
Paddle shifters for a particularly dynamic and sporty driving style . Like the multifunction steering wheel, they significantly increase driving safety as you no longer have to take your hands off the steering wheel to shift gears .
Cost of replacing paddle shifters
Retrofitted paddle shifters are incredibly expensive compared to the multifunction steering wheel retrofit kit. As a new component they cost €300-400 (±£264-352) for a complete set. Even as a used component, it is rarely available for sale. price less than 150 euros (± 132 pounds sterling) .
Before installation, you should check whether the car is suitable for installing the upgraded gearshift paddles . Depending on the type and brand, the steering wheel and control unit must be replaced. This makes the project even more expensive.
For retrofitting the paddle shifters, we strongly recommend that they be carried out by a professional workshop . The ideal moment is to retrofit a multifunction steering wheel. Most of the steps are the same for both modification projects.
Adding value, safety and comfort
If you are willing to spend and decide on a complete steering wheel upgrade, you will be greatly rewarded. As a result, the car will become safer, more dynamic and more comfortable.
Since these features, and especially the shift paddles, are not self-evident, they always attract the interest of a potential buyer, strengthen the car's position in the market and increase its resale value. However, the garage receipt is very useful as it gives the buyer assurance that this modification work has been carried out correctly.
